Erythromycin — Drug Interactions, Alcohol & Pregnancy Guide
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database · 247CanITakeWith Editorial Team
- Erythromycin is a Macrolide antibiotic used for Chest infections.
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol with erythromycin — alcohol may increase erythromycin blood levels and worsens GI side effects which are already very common.
About Erythromycin
Erythromycin is an older macrolide antibiotic, often used as the penicillin-allergy alternative and in pregnancy. It causes more GI side effects than azithromycin and has many drug interactions via CYP3A4 inhibition.
Also sold as: Erymax, Erythrocin, Erythroped
Erythromycin at a glance
Erythromycin is classed as macrolide antibiotic and is used for chest infections, skin infections, chlamydia, acne, pertussis, penicillin-allergy alternative. It is a prescription medicine, so doses and combinations should always be agreed with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Typical adult dosing guidance: 250-500mg four times daily. Your own label or prescription always takes priority over general figures.
Interactions most often flagged
- Alcohol
- Statins
- Warfarin
- Many others via cyp3a4
- Pregnancy (generally safe)
Before you combine Erythromycin with anything new
- Read the patient information leaflet for both products.
- Keep one up-to-date list of every medicine and supplement you take.
- Ask a pharmacist — it is free and takes a couple of minutes.
- Seek urgent medical help if you feel seriously unwell after combining medicines.
Erythromycin and Alcohol
Avoid alcohol with erythromycin — alcohol may increase erythromycin blood levels and worsens GI side effects which are already very common.
Full guide →More in this category: antibiotics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Erythromycin used for?
Erythromycin is a Macrolide antibiotic used for Chest infections, Skin infections, Chlamydia, Acne, Pertussis, Penicillin-allergy alternative.
What is the maximum adult dose of Erythromycin?
The maximum adult dose is 250-500mg four times daily. This is general guidance — always follow the dose on your prescription or product label, and check with a pharmacist if you're unsure.
Can I drink alcohol with Erythromycin?
Avoid alcohol with erythromycin — alcohol may increase erythromycin blood levels and worsens GI side effects which are already very common.
Is Erythromycin available over the counter in the UK?
Erythromycin is prescription-only in the UK.
What should I check before taking Erythromycin with other medicines?
The interactions most often flagged for Erythromycin are: alcohol, statins, warfarin, many others via CYP3A4, pregnancy (generally safe). Tell your pharmacist or prescriber about everything you take, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, before combining it with anything new.
What are the brand names for Erythromycin?
Erythromycin is sold under brand names including Erymax, Erythrocin, Erythroped. The active ingredient is the same, so check labels carefully to avoid doubling up on it.
Do I need a prescription for Erythromycin?
Erythromycin is a prescription medicine, so take it exactly as your prescriber directed and ask them before changing the dose.
Not sure if Erythromycin is safe with your other medications?
HealthLabs.com lets you check liver enzyme or kidney function levels before combining medications long-term — no GP referral needed.
Check your levels at HealthLabs →Always speak to your pharmacist or GP for personalised medical advice. Affiliate link — we may earn a commission.