Erythromycin can be used for the treatment of pneumonias. It is the drug of choice for a Legionella pneumonia and a good alternative to tetracyclines for chlamydial infections and mycoplasmas. Pneumococcal pneumonias normally also respond well to erythromycin; Haemophilus influenzae, on the other hand, is often resistant.

Erythromycin can be considered as an alternative to penicillin for streptococcal pharyngitis; however, even streptococci are partially resistant nowadays. Erythromycin serves in the prophylaxis and treatment of diphtheria carriers.

Erythromycin is also suitable for the treatment of skin infections (eryspela, impetigo); it is the drug of choice for erythrasma. Erythromycin has a similar effect as tetracyclines against acne; it can be used systemically and topically.

Erythromycin has good efficacy against chlamydial infections in the genito-urinary tract as well as in the eyes (conjunctivitis).

However, erythromycin is not suitable for the treatment of syphilis and gonorrhoea nor for the prophylaxis of endocarditis.

Table of Contents | Pharmacology | Adverse Reactions & Interactions | Contraindications & Cautions | Risk Groups | References