Erythromycin

Antibiotic (macrolide)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Erythromycin is a antibiotic (macrolide) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Althrocin 500. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Treats chest, throat, skin and some other bacterial infections, often in people allergic to penicillin.

How it works

A macrolide antibiotic for chest, skin and throat infections in people allergic to penicillin; also as acne gel.

How to take it

Usually 250 to 500 mg four times a day; some forms before food. Finish the course.

Common side effects

  • Nausea
  • Stomach cramps
  • Diarrhoea

Get medical help straight away if

  • Fainting or palpitations
  • Yellow skin
  • Severe diarrhoea

Be careful

Can upset the stomach; many drug interactions.

Other medicines and interactions

Raises levels of statins (simvastatin, atorvastatin), warfarin, theophylline, carbamazepine, colchicine and others. Heart rhythm risk with other QT-prolonging medicines.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Brands of Erythromycin (1)

Althrocin 500

Common questions

What is Erythromycin used for?

Treats chest, throat, skin and some other bacterial infections, often in people allergic to penicillin.

How does Erythromycin work?

A macrolide antibiotic for chest, skin and throat infections in people allergic to penicillin; also as acne gel.

How should I take Erythromycin?

Usually 250 to 500 mg four times a day; some forms before food. Finish the course.

What are the side effects of Erythromycin?

Common: Nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhoea. Get help straight away for: Fainting or palpitations, yellow skin, severe diarrhoea.

Does Erythromycin interact with other medicines?

Raises levels of statins (simvastatin, atorvastatin), warfarin, theophylline, carbamazepine, colchicine and others. Heart rhythm risk with other QT-prolonging medicines.

Is Erythromycin safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does Erythromycin need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Erythromycin?

Althrocin 500.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.