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Erythromycin is a drug that has been classified as macrolide antibiotics. Its composition includes an active substance, thanks to which it is possible to effectively eliminate bacteria. Erythromycin can be found in pharmacies in the form of tablets, suspensions, intravenous infusions or eye ointments.
The drug is used in the treatment of various disease states. It is used in cases of upper and lower respiratory tract infections, otitis media and external otitis, gingivitis or eyelid inflammation, and gastrointestinal tract infections. Erythromycin also prevents perioperative infections and secondary burn infections. It is used in infections such as osteomyelitis and urethritis and in the course of venereal diseases (venereal granuloma of the groin, gonorrhea, primary syphilis). The drug has also found its application in the local treatment of acne vulgaris and in ophthalmology. When taking Erythromycin, it is worth remembering to make sure that you are not hypersensitive to it or to other antibiotics that are in the macrolide group. The drug can not be used in combination with astemizole, cisapride, ergotamine, pimozide, terfenadine.
Erythromycin in pregnancy – is its use dangerous?
Erythromycin during pregnancy is used only when absolutely necessary. This is because the antibiotic is classified as category B. Erythromycin passes into the placenta and into breast milk. It is possible that a pregnant woman who took the drug will give birth to a child with cerebral palsy or epilepsy. Erythromycin can be prescribed and used during pregnancy when a woman is struggling with diseases of the digestive system, urinary system and respiratory tract infection. Also in a situation where the expectant mother is allergic to penicillin, she is recommended by a doctor. Erythromycin, which is intended for application to the skin, can be used by pregnant and breastfeeding women. However, it is worth not to use the preparation directly on the bust so that it does not come into contact with the child’s mouth.
Ointment for acne vulgaris containing erythromycin
Erythromycin is included in the acne ointment. Aknemycin is a representative of such a preparation. It is an antibiotic from the macrolide group. It is applied topically to the skin and helps in the treatment of acne vulgaris, especially in the presence of inflammatory forms or the presence of pimples and papules. Erythromycin is the active ingredient of Aknemycin ointment. The group of macrolides, including, of course, erythromycin, has a mechanism of action consisting in inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial proteins. This works by blocking the bacterial ribosomes, the cellular structures necessary for protein synthesis. Thanks to this, the growth and multiplication of bacterial cells is prevented. Erythromycin is a substance classified as bacteriostatic. It is effective against many species of microorganisms. The ointment with this component is applied topically, absorbing to a minimum extent.