Description: Erythromycin is an antibiotic useful for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. It is in the macrolide class and has an antimicrobial spectrum similar to or slightly wider than that of penicillin, and is often prescribed for people who have anallergy to penicillins. The chemical name of Erythromycin is (3R,4S,5S,6R,7R,9R,11R,12R,13S,14R)-6-
{[(2S,3R,4S,6R)-4-(dimethylamino)-3-hydroxy-6-methyloxan-2-yl]oxy}-14-ethyl-7,12,13-trihydroxy-4-{[(2R,4R,5S,6S)-5-hydroxy-4-methoxy-4,6-dimethyloxan-2-yl]oxy}-3,5,7,9,11,13-hexamethyl-1-oxacyclotetradecane-2,10-dione.

Pharmacological effects: Erythromycin displays bacteriostatic activity or inhibits growth of bacteria, especially at higher concentrations, but the mechanism is not fully understood. By binding to the 50s subunit of the bacterial 70s rRNA complex, protein synthesis and subsequent structure and function processes critical for life or replication are inhibited. Erythromycin interferes with aminoacyl translocation, preventing the transfer of the tRNA bound at the A site of the rRNA complex to the P site of the rRNA complex. Without this translocation, the A site remains occupied, thus the addition of an incoming tRNA and its attached amino acid to the nascent polypeptide chain is inhibited. This interferes with the production of functionally useful proteins, which is the basis of this antimicrobial action.

Pharmacokinetics: This medication is used to treat acne. It helps to reduce the number of pimples. Erythromycin is an antibiotic (macrolide-type). It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

Precautions: Before using erythromycin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin, clarithromycin); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.

Adverse reaction: This medication may cause skin irritation, redness, or peeling, especially in the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. Eye irritation may also occur. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.