Erythromycin and Sulfisoxazole

Generic Name : Erythromycin and Sulfisoxazole

TradeName : Althrocin, Erynate, E-mycin

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : Erythromycin, an antibiotic, and sulfisoxazole, a sulfa drug, are used in combination to eliminate bacteria that cause ear infections, usually in children.

When it is to be taken :
1. This drug is usually taken every six hours for 10 days.
2. Follow the instructions on the prescription label carefully.
3. Doses of this medication should be taken at intervals as far apart as possible throughout the day. For example, if the doctor tells you to give this medication four times a day, it is best to give a dose every six hours. However, if it is not possible to give the drug around the clock, give it at evenly spaced intervals between the time the patient wakes up in the morning and the time her or she goes to bed at night (e.g., at 7 a.m., noon, 5 p.m., and 10 p.m.).

How it should be taken : This medication comes in the liquid form to be taken by mouth. Shake the bottle well before each use to mix the medication evenly. You may obtain a specially marked measuring spoon to be sure of an accurate dose. Give a full glass of water after each dose

Special Instruction :
1. The patient should drink large quantities of water or other liquids every day.
2. Do not give this medication at the same time, or immediately after, carbonated beverages, fruit juices, or tea. The acids in these drinks may affect the way it works.
3. Give all of the medication prescribed, even after the infection appears to have gone away.
4. Failure to do so could allow the infection to return. Do not stop this medication unless the doctor tells you to do so.
5. If the patient will be outside for long periods, use protective clothing and a sunscreen to protect the skin from sunlight.
6. Keep all appointments with the doctor while giving this drug so the response can be evaluated.
7. If you forget to take a dose, give the missed dose as soon as you remember it, even if you have to double the next dose. Give any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals.

Side Effects :
1. Skin rash, skin changes, sore throat. Stop giving the medication and contact the doctor.
2. Stomach upset. Give the medication with crackers or a light snack. If stomach upsets continue, contact the doctor.

Other Precautions :
1. If the patient ever had a bad reaction to erythromycin or any sulfa drug or if you have been told that he or she is allergic to these medication, tell the doctor before starting this combination of drugs.
2. Before giving this drug, tell the doctor if the patient has asthma, kidney disease, or liver disease.
3. Tell the doctor what other prescription and nonprescription medications are being taken. The effects of this drug and other drugs may be decreased when they are taken together.

Storage Conditions :
1. Keep this medication in the container it came in and out of the reach of children.
2. Store it in the refrigerator but not in the freezer.
3. The label on the container will show an expiry date. Do not use the drug after the expiry