Erythromycin antibiotic

Amanda O · #1 (**permalink**) 05-12-2009

My boyfriend started taking this yesterday for his swelling tonsils, since yesterday he has been getting stomach cramps, today they have got worse. One of the common side effects of this drug is stomach pains/cramps however a severe side effect of this drug is also stomach pains/cramps.

What is the difference between knowing it is a severe or common?

He is also allergic to penicillin, could he also be allergic to this antibiotic?

Thank you
Warning to others:

read up about this antibiotic, if you are experiencing stomach pains (feeling like youre hungry, bad wind, feels like contractions, period pains) then STOP taking the drug, go back to your doctor and get a different one.

It seems a lot of people suffer when using this drug! BEWARE

kerrbear · #2 (**permalink**) 05-12-2009

It's unfortunately a very common side effect. I had the same problem. You're supposed to drink A LOT of water when you take those pills because of the impact on your stomach. I found it would also give me a lot of heartburn. Make sure to drink a lot of fluids and try to eat something either before or after taking it (whichever works best for you) because an empty stomach will definitely not help matters!

grizzliesgurl · #3 (**permalink**) 05-12-2009

Could be my friend is allergic to most antibiotics - he should stop taking it and go to his doctor asap and get other antibiotics.

peypossible · #4 (**permalink**) 05-12-2009

i have recurring tonsil problems and i'm always given amoxycillin which works, combined with self medication of propolis - i always take this at first sign now and it subsides - hot honey and lemon in water is fab too! good luck ,xx

Cassie · #5 (**permalink**) 05-12-2009

If it severe it means he can't move without hurting and the pain is unbearable. If he is having a lot of pain, he needs to go to the ER. He may be allergic, but usually the allergic reaction is a rash or swelling of the nose/throat/face. I would get him to the ER just to be safe. You never know what could be going on! I hope I helped and I hope he gets better soon!

PS. I was on this for a sinus infection and I had severe stomach cramping.