Macrolides and Azalides Contributions by sshowalter

Possible side effects include:

• Rarely, erythromycin can cause jaundice (a yellow cast to the whites of the eyes and the skin).
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea, vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rarely, heart beat irregularities (especially when combined with other medications)

Common names include:

• Erythromycin
• Azithromycin (Zithromax)
• Clarithromycin (Biaxin)
• Roxithromycin (Rulide)

Always take these medicines with a full glass of water. While it’s preferable to take erythromycin on an empty stomach, a lot of people experience stomach upset. If you do, try taking it with food. Take azithromycin one hour before or two hours after meals. Some of these drugs can interact with medical conditions and medications. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about any interactions.