Eromycin Paediatric Drops 60 ml

Overview

Eromycin Paediatric Drops contain Erythromycin 200 mg per 5 ml in a concentrated oral solution for infants and young children, manufactured by Square Pharmaceuticals PLC. The drops formulation allows precise weight-based dosing for the smallest paediatric patients. Used for bacterial infections in infants including respiratory tract infections, whooping cough prophylaxis and treatment, otitis media, and chlamydial infections. The higher concentration (200 mg/5 ml vs 125 mg/5 ml in syrup) means smaller volumes are needed for infant doses.

Dosage and Administration

Neonates and infants: typical dose 12.5 mg/kg every 6 hours; measure carefully using the calibrated dropper. May be added to a small amount of infant formula or juice to improve palatability. All dosing must be directed by a physician.

Interaction

Same CYP3A4 interactions as oral erythromycin. Of particular note in paediatrics: erythromycin in neonates has been associated with infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) — use with caution in infants under 6 weeks.

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to erythromycin; concurrent use with cisapride (QT prolongation risk in infants). Use with extreme caution in neonates under 6 weeks due to IHPS risk.

Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramping. In infants: risk of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) with early neonatal use.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Erythromycin is generally considered safe in pregnancy (base form). Passes into breast milk in small amounts — generally considered compatible with breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

Counsel parents to measure doses precisely with the calibrated dropper. Report any projectile vomiting or feeding difficulties in infants under 6 weeks. Complete the full course. Store correctly and discard remaining suspension after 14 days.

Storage Conditions

Store at 2–8°C (refrigerate) after reconstitution if applicable. Discard after 14 days. Keep out of the reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are erythromycin drops concentrated at 200 mg/5 ml compared to 125 mg/5 ml syrup?
A higher concentration means smaller volumes are needed per dose, making it easier to administer accurate, tiny infant doses with a dropper; smaller volumes are also more easily swallowed by infants without spilling.

What is infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) and why does it matter with erythromycin?
IHPS is a condition where the stomach outlet (pylorus) thickens, causing severe vomiting in neonates; early erythromycin exposure (in the first 6 weeks of life) has been epidemiologically linked to IHPS; this risk must be weighed against the benefit when prescribing for neonates.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Please consult a registered physician before taking any medication.