Ilosone
Ilosone (generic name: Erythromycin) can be used to treat Streptococcal infections of the throat (strep throat) and the skin. It can also be used in treating lung infections (pneumonias) caused by streptococcal pneumoniae, mycoplasma pneumoniae, and legionella pneumophila (Legionnaires disease). Ilosone Erythromycin is used in patients who are allergic to penicillin for the prevention of recurrent rheumatic fever, and heart valve infections (endocarditis) in patients with heart valve abnormalities before undergoing dental treatments.
Ilosone Erythromycin administered together with theophylline can lead to elevated blood levels of theophylline. Theophylline is used to open airways in the treatment of asthma. For further reading, please read the Asthma article. Toxic levels of theophylline can lead to seizures and disturbances in heart rhythm. Therefore, the dose of theophylline should be reduced in patients also taking erythromycin. Likewise, erythromycin can raise the blood levels of digoxin and warfarin (Coumadin). Elevated digoxin levels can cause disturbances in heart rhythm. Enhanced action of Coumadin (an anticoagulant) can increase risk of bleeding. Serious heart rhythm disturbances (even cardiac arrest) have been observed when erythromycin and terfenadine (Seldane) are used together. Erythromycin can interact with lovastatin (Mevacor) to cause muscle inflammation. Erythromycin can also elevate blood levels of certain anti-seizure medications such as phenytoin (Dilantin), and carbamazepine (Tegretol). The doses of these medications may need to be reduced when given together with erythromycin.
Ilosone side effects
The most frequent side effects of Ilosone erythromycin are nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These gastrointestinal side effects are usually dose related (side effects are more pronounced with higher doses of the medication). Allergic reactions such as hives, rash, or anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction which can lead to shock) have been rarely reported. Abnormal liver tests or liver dysfunction can also occur with Ilosone.
