Erythromycin for Impetigo

Yes. Erythromycin is one of the antibiotics recommended by NICE when impetigo is treated by mouth and you’re allergic to penicillin, and it is the recommended choice if you’re pregnant.

If you’re not allergic to penicillin, flucloxacillin is usually the first choice. Clarithromycin is another option if you’re allergic to penicillin and not pregnant. Learn more about clarithromycin for impetigo.

Complete our online consultation for a clinical assessment by one of our experienced prescribers to find out whether you’re eligible for a prescription to buy erythromycin 500mg tablets online.

Impetigo usually starts as red sores or blisters that quickly burst and leave golden-brown, crusty patches, often around the nose and mouth or on the hands. The sores can be itchy. It can look different on brown and black skin, where the redness may be harder to see.

No, but they are closely related. Both are macrolide antibiotics that work in a similar way. Clarithromycin is taken twice a day and usually causes fewer stomach side effects, while erythromycin is taken four times a day and is preferred in pregnancy.

You cannot buy erythromycin over the counter at a pharmacy as it is a prescription-only medication. This means you must have a prescription from a licensed prescriber to buy erythromycin for impetigo.

If you think you have impetigo and are allergic to penicillin, you can fill out our simple online questionnaire to start your consultation with one of our UK-registered prescribers. Then, if prescribed, you can buy erythromycin 500mg tablets through our online pharmacy with fast UK delivery.

You can order erythromycin 500mg tablets through an online pharmacy after a clinical assessment with a registered prescriber. A prescriber will only prescribe erythromycin if it’s clinically appropriate for you and your situation.

Do not buy antibiotics from pharmacies or websites that do not require a consultation with a medical professional.

At My Chemist Plus, you can have a free consultation with a UK-registered, experienced prescriber for erythromycin. If prescribed, you can order erythromycin online with fast UK-wide delivery. Fill out a quick health questionnaire to get started.

Yes. Impetigo spreads easily through touch and shared items. To stop it spreading:

• Stay off work until the sores have dried and crusted over, or for 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment
• Don’t scratch or touch the sores, and wash your hands often
• Don’t share towels, flannels or bedding, and wash them at a high temperature
• Avoid close contact with others, especially babies and people with a weakened immune system

Always follow your prescriber’s instructions and complete the full course of treatment even if you start feeling better. If you finish your course and still feel unwell, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

• Take one tablet four times a day at evenly spaced times. For instance, one in the morning, one at midday, one in the late afternoon and one at bedtime.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water – do not crush or chew it.
• Follow the directions on your label about food, as this can vary between brands.

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s nearly time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Do not take two tablets at the same time to make up for a forgotten dose.

For adults with impetigo, the usual dose is 500mg four times a day for 5 days. It’s very important you follow your prescriber’s advice and finish the full course.

Many people notice the sores start to dry and heal within a few days. You’re usually no longer contagious 48 hours after starting antibiotics. If your impetigo has not improved after 5 days, seek medical advice.

Yes. Erythromycin is the macrolide antibiotic usually recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding if you’re allergic to penicillin. Let your prescriber know during your consultation so they can offer you the right guidance.

Erythromycin interacts with a number of medicines, so tell your prescriber about everything you take. In particular, mention:

• Statins, such as simvastatin or atorvastatin
• Warfarin or other blood thinners
• Colchicine, used for gout
• Digoxin or medicines for an irregular heartbeat
• Theophylline, used for asthma or COPD
• Carbamazepine, used for epilepsy
• Ciclosporin or other medicines that affect your immune system
• Any medicine that can affect your heart rhythm

Alcohol does not interact with erythromycin. But, it’s a good idea to avoid drinking alcohol while you’re unwell, as it can make side effects such as nausea worse.

Erythromycin should not usually affect your ability to drive. If you feel unwell or dizzy, do not drive or operate machinery until you feel better.

Erythromycin does not affect the contraceptive pill directly. It also does not affect the emergency contraceptive pill. But, erythromycin can cause vomiting or diarrhoea in some people.

If you’re vomiting or have diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, this may prevent your contraceptive pill from working. To find out what to do, read the patient information leaflet that comes with your contraceptive medication, speak to your doctor, or visit the NHS website for guidance.

Speak to a GP or NHS 111 if:

• The sores are spreading despite treatment, or are not improving after 5 days
• You have a high temperature or feel unwell
• The skin around the sores becomes red, hot, swollen and painful, which could be cellulitis
• You keep getting impetigo