Chest infection

[Lusciouslynda]

My gp  has put me on erythromycin 500mg four times a day for chest infection with copd. Is this a lot as I'm only normally put on half that amount. I've been worried sick and have only taken 1 today as I've had pain in my upper back and shoulder .

[peege]

Hi, it is quite a lot but what does the leaflet say? Very important to read it, check the dosage. 

If you have a dodgy tum at all you might have to change it. 

[Lusciouslynda in reply to peege]

Thank you for your quick reply.  I do have gerd so have to be careful. Erythromycin are safe for me to take. I just can't take antacids with them so I've just been watching what I eat.

[Hidden]

The pain is probably from the chest infection.The dose of 500mg is usual for people with bronchiectasis like me or an infection with COPD. do take it. It will knock the horrible bugs on the head and if you have any gunk down there, get it up! I do hope that you feel better soon.

[Lusciouslynda in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for your quick reply. It's put my mind at ease.

[SquirrelsHolt]

Luscious Linda, I've been prescribed the same amount previously of those antibiotics. If the dose upsets your tummy tell your GP but otherwise I think the high dose is just to try and get the infection sorted. Take care and rest.

[diesel12]

Hope you feel better soon xx

[Hidden]

Hi I agree with the others.  I have been given high doses of ab's before.  You need to take the right amount and the full course otherwise your infection might return.  If you get stomach problems take some natural yoghurt with it as this helps the bacteria in your stomach.  x

[katieoxo60]

Hi this is a fairly standard dose for people with lung problems, and you need to take as prescribed or the infection won't clear up, if it upsets your stomach ring the GPs surgery and ask for advice or the local chemist who dispensed the drugs. As suggested by others the pain is probably due to infection, have you tried a painkiller to ease it  or do they upset your GERD too? It can be difficult to get used to which drugs are best for yourself, hope you feel better soon and don't end up in hospital. Take Care x