What is a common side effect of Erythromycin?

Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic commonly used to treat various bacterial infections. A well-documented side effect of erythromycin is gastrointestinal disturbance, which often presents as nausea and diarrhea. This occurs because erythromycin stimulates gastrointestinal motility, which can lead to discomfort and increased bowel movements. In some individuals, these effects can be significant enough to require dose adjustment or discontinuation of the medication. Understanding the pharmacological profile of erythromycin helps in anticipating these side effects and managing them effectively in clinical practice.