Uses
Ecolide (erythromycin) is part of a class of antibiotics known as macrolides. Macrolides are bacteriostatic agents that inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S subunit of ribosomes. This ribosome subunit is unique to bacteria and has no effect on human 80S ribosomes.
Ecolide is mainly indicated for:
- Bronchitis
- Severe campylobacter enteritis
- Chancroid
- Diphtheria
- Legionnaire’s disease
- Neonatal conjunctivitis
- Pertussis
- Pneumonia
- Sinusitis
- Trench fever
How should I take Ecolide?
Ecolide is available as an oral tablet. Swallow the tablet whole without crushing, chewing, or dissolving it in liquid. It should be taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption, either 1 hour before meals or 2 hours after meals.
If gastric irritation or nausea occurs while taking it on an empty stomach, you can take it with meals to reduce discomfort.
How do I store Ecolide?
This drug should be stored at room temperature (<30°C) and be protected from light and moisture. Always check the label before using this product. For safety, keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not use if the printed expiration date has passed, the product seal has been broken, or the product has changed in color, odor, or consistency.
Do not dispose of this product by pouring it down the drain, toilet, or into the environment. Ask your pharmacist regarding the proper way and location of disposal.
Precautions & Warnings
Before using this medication, inform your doctor if:
- You have ever had an allergic reaction to Ecolide or other macrolides
- You have a history of allergy to other medications, food, or other substances
- You are taking other medications
- You have underlying health conditions
Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
This drug is a pregnancy category B drug. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies using erythromycin in pregnant women, however, animal studies show no risk to the fetus. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor.
Erythromycin is considered compatible with breastfeeding. This drug should be used while breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the child, as determined by your doctor.
Side Effects
All drugs have the potential to elicit side effects even with normal use. Many side effects are dose-related and will resolve when it is adjusted or at the end of therapy.
Potential side effects while using this drug include:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Abdominal cramping
- Abnormal liver function tests
- Mild allergic reaction
- Pseudomembranous colitis
- Nightmares
- Hallucinations
- Confusion
- Vertigo
- Arrhythmias
Rare, serious adverse reactions:
- Anaphylactic reaction
- Convulsions
You may experience some, none, or other side effects not mentioned above. If you experience serious adverse reactions, you must stop taking the drug immediately. If you have any concerns about a side effect or it becomes bothersome, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Interactions
This drug may interact with other medications. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
Known drugs that have interactions with this medication include:
- Calcium channel blockers
- CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 inhibitors
If you experience an adverse drug interaction, stop taking this drug and continue taking your other medication. Inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Your dose may need to be adjusted, substituted with another drug, or discontinue using the drug.
Does food or alcohol interact with Ecolide?
This drug is best taken without food for optimal absorption. However, it can safely be taken with food if you experience gastric discomfort while taking it on an empty stomach.
There are no notable interactions with alcohol, however, it would be best to limit or avoid alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of liver dysfunction.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding food-drug interactions.
What health conditions may interact with Ecolide?
This drug should be taken with caution if you have any of the following conditions or risk factors:
- Hepatic disease
- Heart irregularities or arrhythmias
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding specific health conditions.
Dosage
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Ecolide.
What is the dose of Ecolide for an adult?
All doses are to be given by deep IM injection or slow IV injection over 3-5 min, or intermittent or continuous IV infusion.
For treating mild to moderate infections
- Take 250 mg 4 times a day.
For treating severe infections
- Take 500 mg to 1 g 4 times a day.
What is the dose of Ecolide for a child?
The pediatric dose of Ecolide has not been established. Consult with your child’s doctor regarding the appropriate dose for your child.
How is Ecolide available?
This drug is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:
- Ecolide film-coated tablet 500 mg
What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?
In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of this drug, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose. Avoid missing doses to prevent antibiotic resistance and treatment failure.
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