What drug class is erythromycin?

erythromycin is classified as a Macrolides.

Is there a generic version of erythromycin?

Yes, generic versions of erythromycin are available. See the Exact Equivalents section above for FDA-rated generic alternatives.

How does erythromycin work?

erythromycin mechanism of action information is available in the Drug Information section of this page.

Erythromycin

Also sold as: Erythrocin, Ery-Tab, Emgel, Erygel, Theramycin (+8 more)

MacrolidesPrescription OnlyGeneric Available

Related Medications

Important: Only drugs listed as "Exact Equivalents" (FDA AB-rated) are confirmed interchangeable. All other listings are for informational reference only and do NOT indicate that drugs can be substituted without a physician's explicit guidance.

Same Pharmacologic Class

These drugs share a pharmacologic classification but are NOT interchangeable. Listing here does not imply clinical equivalence. A physician must evaluate each drug individually for the patient's specific condition.

Classification: Macrolides (source: RxClass/NLM)

Insurance Coverage User-Reported

Community Data Disclaimer: Insurance coverage information below was submitted by RxSaurus users and has not been verified by RxSaurus. Coverage varies by plan, year, geography, and individual circumstances. Drug formulary status, prior authorization requirements, and tier placements change frequently. Always verify coverage directly with the patient's insurance plan or pharmacy benefits manager before prescribing or dispensing.

No community coverage data yet for erythromycin.

Coverage data submission coming soon.

Drug Information

Indications & Uses

INDICATIONS AND USAGE Erythromycin Topical Solution USP, 2% is indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris.

Dosage & Administration

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Erythromycin Topical Solution USP, 2% should be applied over the affected areas twice a day (morning and evening) after the skin is thoroughly washed with warm water and soap and patted dry. Acne lesions on the face, neck, shoulders, chest, and back may be treated in this manner. This medication should be applied with applicator top. If fingertips are used, wash hands after application. Drying and peeling may be controlled by reducing the frequency of applications.

Warnings & Precautions

WARNINGS Pseudomembranous colitis has been reported with nearly all antibacterial agents, including erythromycin, and may range in severity from mild to life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to consider this diagnosis in patients who present with diarrhea subsequent to the administration of antibacterial agents. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon and may permit overgrowth of clostridia. Studies indicate that a toxin produced by Clostridium difficile is one primary cause of “antibiotic-associated colitis”. After the diagnosis of pseudomembranous colitis has been established, therapeutic measures should be initiated. Mild cases of pseudomembranous colitis usually respond to drug discontinuation alone. In moderate to severe cases, consideration should be given to management with fluids and electrolytes, protein supplementation and treatment with an antibacterial drug clinically effective against C. difficile colitis.

Side Effects (Adverse Reactions)

ADVERSE REACTIONS The following local adverse reactions have been reported occasionally: peeling, dryness, itching, erythema, and oiliness. Irritation of the eyes and tenderness of the skin have also been reported with topical use of erythromycin. Generalized urticarial reactions possibly related to the use of erythromycin, which required systemic steroid therapy have been reported.

Contraindications

CONTRAINDICATIONS Erythromycin Topical Solution USP, 2% is contraindicated in those individuals who have shown hypersensitivity to any of its components.

Verify with Primary Sources

Always verify clinical information with authoritative sources.

DailyMed (NLM/NIH)FDA-approved drug labeling↗FDA Orange BookTherapeutic equivalence data↗RxNorm (NLM/NIH)Drug nomenclature & relationships↗