Antibiotic (Macrolide)
Brand of Erythromycin
Last reviewed May 2026
NAFDAC registration currently inactive
This product's NAFDAC registration is not currently active. It may still be available in pharmacies, but you should verify its status with your pharmacist before use.
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Erythromycin is an antibiotic that works by stopping bacteria from growing and multiplying in your body, helping your immune system fight off infections.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Adults usually take 250mg to 500mg every 6 hours (4 times a day), or 500mg every 12 hours depending on the infection. It works best when taken on an empty stomach — about 1 hour before food or 2 hours after food. However, if it upsets your stomach, you can take it with a light meal. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Always complete the full course of erythromycin even if you feel better after a few days — stopping early can make the infection come back stronger and harder to treat. Buy only from licensed pharmacies and check the expiry date — avoid purchasing from roadside vendors or open markets. Do not share your antibiotics with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms.
Do not take erythromycin with theophylline (used for asthma) as it can increase theophylline levels dangerously. Avoid taking it with warfarin (blood thinner) unless your doctor adjusts the dose, as it can increase bleeding risk. Erythromycin can also interact with some antihistamines and heart medications, so always tell your pharmacist what other drugs you are taking. Alcohol should be limited as it can worsen stomach side effects.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Erythromycin with your other drugs?
Erythromycin is generally considered one of the safer antibiotics during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but you should still consult your doctor before using it.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in cars or near windows. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from humidity. Suspensions/syrups should be stored in a refrigerator after mixing and used within 7 to 14 days. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Genuine packaging for Erythro-500 Tablet
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NAFDAC Number
04-8343
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