Erythromycin

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: May 03, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about Erythromycin


Is erythromycin a penicillin?

No, erythromycin is not a penicillin. It is a macrolide antibiotic, which is different from penicillins.



Is erythromycin used for sore throat?

Antibiotics are used to treat sore throat caused by bacterial infections like Strep throat. The first choice is usually penicillin, but if you have a penicillin allergy, your doctor may prescribe erythromycin.



What kind of bacteria is erythromycin effective against?

Erythromycin is effective against a wide range of Gram positive bacteria and Gram negative bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Bordetella pertussis, Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Listeria monocytogenes, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Haemophilus influenzae to name a few.



What’s the difference between erythromycin and erythromycin ethylsuccinate?

Erythromycin ethylsuccinate is a salt of erythromycin oral that is available in tablet and oral suspension forms. It is not absorbed as well by the body and may have a lower therapeutic efficacy. However, it tends to be better tolerated and causes fewer side effects. Your healthcare provider will help you choose the right form of erythromycin.



How long should I take erythromycin?

Your healthcare provider will tell you how long you should take erythromycin, depending on the severity of your infection. The treatment duration can range from 7 days to 3 weeks or longer. Continue taking erythromycin even if you feel well. Do not stop the antibiotic without your doctor’s approval. 



What is the price of erythromycin without insurance?

Without insurance, erythromycin can be as high as $30.00, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $8.39 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of erythromycin with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on erythromycin—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for erythromycin. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.