Erythromycin: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of erythromycin delayed-release tablets and other antibacterial drugs, erythromycin delayed-release tablets should be used only to treat

Data source
FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label bb641ed4…)
Label version
current
Last reviewed
2026
Side effects

Reported adverse reactions

Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.

No structured frequency data available in current labeling. Consult the official label.

Uses

Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of erythromycin delayed-release tablets and other antibacterial drugs, erythromycin delayed-release tablets should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.   Erythromycin delayed-release tablets are indicated in the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the diseases listed below: Upper respiratory tract infections of mild to moderate degree caused by Streptococcus pyogenes ; Streptococcus pneumoniae ; Haemophilus influenzae (when used concomitantly with adequate doses of sulfonamides, since many strains of H. influenzae are not susceptible to the erythromycin concentrations ordinarily achieved) (see appropriate sulfonamide labeling for prescribing information). Lower respiratory tract infections of mild to moderat…

Related conditions

Conditions associated with Erythromycin in labeling

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Erythromycin used for?

FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.

What are the most commonly reported side effects of Erythromycin?

Current labeling for this ingredient does not include a structured frequency table that we can reproduce. Review the official label linked below.

Does Erythromycin require lab monitoring?

Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Erythromycin.

Where does this information come from?

All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.

Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

Educational content only: The information on Symptom Database.com is for educational purposes and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider. Read our full disclaimer.