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Erythromycin

Prescription

Macrolide Antibiotic

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

3 available

Interactions

3 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, preventing translocation. Also has prokinetic effects by acting as a motilin receptor agonist at low doses.

At a glance

Class

Macrolide Antibiotic

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Store at room temperature 15–30°C, protect from moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Low-dose erythromycin is used as a prokinetic for gastroparesis and delayed gast

Dose

10–20 mg/kg

Route

PO, IV

Frequency

q8h

🐈

Cat

Use with caution; GI upset common

Dose

10–20 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q8h

Educational reference only

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 4

Strength

—

Strength

—

Strength

—

Strength

—

Storage

Store at room temperature 15–30°C, protect from moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Hepatic enzymes with prolonged useGI tolerance

Educational reference only

Interactions

Contraindicated — 1

Cisapride

contraindicated

Erythromycin inhibits CYP3A4 metabolism of cisapride + erythromycin itself prolongs QT: severe QT prolongation and torsades de pointes risk.

Management: NEVER combine. Use metoclopramide as alternative prokinetic, or use different antibiotic.

Moderate — 2

Chloramphenicol

moderate

Macrolides and chloramphenicol bind overlapping 50S ribosomal sites. Competitive antagonism.

Management: Do not combine.

Lincomycin

moderate

Lincosamides and macrolides bind overlapping sites on the 50S ribosomal subunit. Competitive antagonism reduces efficacy of both.

Management: Do not combine. Choose one based on culture results.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Erythrocin

Gallimycin

EryTab

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Erythromycin?

Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used in pets. Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, preventing translocation. Also has prokinetic effects by acting as a motilin receptor agonist at low doses.

›What is Erythromycin used for in pets?

Erythromycin is used in veterinary medicine for: Low-dose erythromycin is used as a prokinetic for gastroparesis and delayed gast; Use with caution; GI upset common.

›What is the Erythromycin dose for dogs?

For dogs, Erythromycin is typically dosed as follows — Low-dose erythromycin is used as a prokinetic for gastroparesis and delayed gast: 10–20 mg/kg PO/IV q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Erythromycin dose for cats?

For cats, Erythromycin is typically dosed as follows — Use with caution; GI upset common: 10–20 mg/kg PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Erythromycin need a prescription?

Yes. Erythromycin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

Educational reference only