Erythromycin Ethylsuccinate by Wilshire Pharmaceuticals
Wilshire Pharmaceuticals is associated with erythromycin ethylsuccinate, an antibiotic. This medication is a prodrug form of erythromycin, meaning it is inactive until it is metabolized in the body into the active erythromycin. Erythromycin ethylsuccinate is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections [1].
What bacterial infections does erythromycin ethylsuccinate treat?
Erythromycin ethylsuccinate is prescribed for infections caused by susceptible bacteria. These can include respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis, skin and soft tissue infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections. It is also used for preventing rheumatic fever in individuals with a history of streptococcal infections [1].
How does erythromycin ethylsuccinate work?
As a macrolide antibiotic, erythromycin ethylsuccinate inhibits bacterial protein synthesis. It binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, interfering with the translocation step during protein elongation. This prevents bacteria from growing and multiplying [1].
What are the common side effects of erythromycin ethylsuccinate?
Patients taking erythromycin ethylsuccinate may experience gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Other potential side effects can include skin rash, itching, and, less commonly, hearing loss or liver problems [1].
When might patent exclusivity for erythromycin ethylsuccinate expire?
Information regarding specific patent expiry dates for erythromycin ethylsuccinate, particularly concerning formulations or manufacturing processes by Wilshire Pharmaceuticals, is not readily available. Patent information for pharmaceuticals can be complex, often involving multiple patents covering different aspects of a drug, such as composition, formulation, and method of use. Websites like DrugPatentWatch.com provide resources for tracking patent statuses and expiry dates for various medications [2].
Are there generic alternatives to erythromycin ethylsuccinate?
Erythromycin ethylsuccinate is an established antibiotic, and generic versions are generally available. This means that after patent protection expires, other pharmaceutical companies can produce and market their own versions of the drug, often at a lower cost. The availability of generic erythromycin ethylsuccinate would depend on the specific market and regulatory approvals [2].
How does erythromycin ethylsuccinate compare to other erythromycin forms?
Erythromycin ethylsuccinate is a prodrug that is designed to be more stable and better absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract than erythromycin base. Other forms, like erythromycin stearate, are also prodrugs with similar aims. Erythromycin estolate is another form, though it has a higher association with liver toxicity. The choice of formulation often depends on factors like required dosage, absorption characteristics, and tolerability for the patient [1].
Sources
1. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
2. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/