Indications
Erythromycin Thiocyanate is a form of the antibiotic Erythromycin used in animals, mainly poultry such as broiler and layer chickens and turkeys, and sometimes other livestock as directed by a veterinarian. It is given in drinking water or feed to treat and control chronic respiratory disease (CRD) caused by Mycoplasma, infectious coryza, and other infections caused by bacteria that are sensitive to Erythromycin, such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus and Clostridium (necrotic enteritis). It is not for human use.
How It Works
Erythromycin belongs to the macrolide group of antibiotics. It attaches to the part of the bacterial cell that makes proteins (the ribosome) and stops the bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow and multiply. This allows the bird’s immune system to clear the infection. It does not work against viruses.
Dosage and Administration
For animal use only. Dose, mixing rate and length of treatment must follow the product label or your veterinarian’s instructions, based on the species, age and body weight of the flock.
- Mix fresh medicated water every day and make it the only drinking water available during treatment.
- Treatment usually lasts 3 to 5 days, or as directed by the veterinarian.
- Withdrawal period: meat and eggs from treated birds must not be used for human food during treatment and for the withdrawal period stated on the label. Unless the label allows it, do not use in laying hens whose eggs are eaten by people.
Interactions
Do not give together with other macrolides (such as Tylosin or Tilmicosin), Lincomycin or Chloramphenicol, as they act on the same target and may reduce each other’s effect. Erythromycin may raise blood levels of some medicines such as Theophylline. Do not mix with other medicines, vitamins or disinfectants in the drinking water unless your veterinarian advises it.
Contraindications
- Animals known to be allergic to Erythromycin or other macrolides.
- Animals with serious liver disease.
- Infections caused by bacteria known to be resistant to Erythromycin.
- Not for use in humans.
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated in birds. Some birds may drink less because of the bitter taste, and loose droppings or digestive upset can occur. People handling the powder may develop skin or eye irritation, or an allergic reaction in those sensitive to macrolides.
Get urgent medical help if a person swallows a large amount by accident or develops signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing). Contact your veterinarian at once if treated animals become severely ill or many birds stop eating or drinking.
Pregnancy and Lactation
This product is for animals and must not be taken by people. Use in breeding animals only as advised by a veterinarian. Pregnant or breastfeeding women who handle the powder should wear gloves and a mask and avoid breathing in the dust.
Precautions and Warnings
- Wear gloves and a dust mask when mixing; wash hands after use.
- Keep the full withdrawal period before selling or eating meat or eggs.
- Use only when a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected, and complete the course, to reduce antibiotic resistance.
- Make sure birds can reach and drink the medicated water; sick birds that do not drink may need separate care.
Overdose
In animals, too much may cause reduced feed and water intake and digestive upset; stop the medicated water and contact your veterinarian. If a person swallows the product, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhoea may occur; seek medical advice.
Therapeutic Class
Veterinary macrolide antibiotic.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep separate from human food and medicines. Use medicated water within 24 hours of mixing.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.