b. Adverse Effects.
(1) The most frequent side effect of oral administration is abdominal
cramping and other GI discomfort. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea do occur in some
clients.
(2) Allergic reactions ranging from simple skin rash to anaphylaxis have
been reported.
(3)
Superinfections may occur during long-term therapy.
c. Cautions and Warnings.
(1)
The safety of this drug in pregnancy has not been established.
(2) The administration of erythromycin estolate has been associated with
cholestatic hepatitis.
(3)
This drug should be used cautiously in clients with impaired hepatic
function.
(4) Intramuscular injection is not recommended in small children, since
small children do not have the large muscle mass needed for deep placement of the
injection.
(5) Intramuscular injections may cause severe pain, sterile abscess
formation, and necrosis.
d. Usual Dosage. Dosage varies with the sensitivity of the organism and
severity of the infection.
(1)
Adult: 250 mg every 6 hours.
(2)
Child: 30-50 mg/kg/day, in divided doses.
e. Supply.
(1)
Erythromycin stearate or base capsules, 250 mg each.
(2)
Erythromycin estolate capsules, 250 mg each.
(3)
Erythromycin estolate for oral suspension, 125 mg/5 ml when mixed with
water.
(4) Erythromycin ethylsuccinate for oral suspension,
200 mg/5 ml. when reconstituted.
MD0913
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