Erythromycin

Also known as: Erythrocin, E-Mycin, ERYC, Ery-Tab, Erythroped

CAS Number: 114-07-8

Natural macrolide antibiotic from Saccharopolyspora erythraea

Pharmacopeia Standards

USPBPIP

Mechanism of Action

First-in-class macrolide; binds reversibly to the 23S rRNA of the 50S ribosomal subunit, blocking peptidyl-tRNA translocation. Bacteriostatic. Also acts as motilin receptor agonist promoting gastric motility (prokinetic application). Produced by fermentation of Saccharopolyspora erythraea.

Technical Specifications

Generic / INN Name	Erythromycin
CAS Registry Number	114-07-8
Molecular Formula	C37H67NO13
Molecular Weight	733.93 g/mol
Typical Purity	93.0–100.5% (sum of A + B fractions)
Storage Conditions	Store below 25°C in a dry place, protected from light
Shelf Life	24 months from date of manufacture
Category	Macrolides

Specifications are indicative and intended for sourcing reference only. Always confirm against the supplier's Certificate of Analysis and the applicable pharmacopeial monograph before issuing a purchase specification.

Typical Applications

Atypical pneumonia (Mycoplasma, Chlamydophila) in penicillin-allergic patients, pertussis (whooping cough — prophylaxis and treatment), diphtheria (adjunctive), Campylobacter gastroenteritis, Legionella pneumophila (historical), skin infections in penicillin-allergic patients, chlamydial infections during pregnancy, gastroparesis (prokinetic off-label use), acne (topical preparations).