ERYTHROMYCIN: PRODUCT SELECTION

The following three interpretations apply to a pharmacist's handling of the product erythromycin:
1. Where a prescription simply calls for "Erythromycin", the pharmacist may select the base, estolate, ethylsuccinate or stearate salt, provided the specified strength and dosage form is dispensed.
2. Where the form of drug is specified on the prescription (tablet, capsule, oral liquid) the pharmacist must select a product in that designated form, and one consistent with dosage requirements.
3. Where the prescription specifies erythromycin base or a particular compound of erythromycin, the pharmacist must select a product formulated only with the base or compound.
February 1985 OCP Newsletter