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Last Updated: December 12, 2025

CLINICAL TRIALS PROFILE FOR ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE


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All Clinical Trials for ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE

Trial ID Title Status Sponsor Phase Start Date Summary
NCT02528981 ↗ Effect of Probiotics on GBS Colonization Status During Pregnancy: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Completed Chr Hansen N/A 2015-08-01 Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality in Canada. It may be passed from a study participant colonized in the genital tract by GBS to their baby during vaginal birth. While approximately 10 to 30% of pregnant people harbour GBS in the vagina or rectum, the incidence of neonatal GBS disease is 1 to 2 infants per 1000 births. The use of intrapartum antibiotics to treat colonized individuals with or without risk factors has led to a 70% decline in the incidence of early-onset GBS sepsis in the past decade. Despite this impressive decline, antibiotic resistance has become a major public health concern. Association between intrapartum antibiotic use and ampicillin resistance in E. coli isolated from neonates has previously been documented. Furthermore, while GBS has remained sensitive to penicillin, 20% are resistant to erythromycin and clindamycin, which are alternate drugs for patients allergic to penicillin. Alternative approaches are therefore needed to reduce the risk of GBS infection. We therefore propose to study the use of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14 (Lactobacillus fermentum RC-14) in the colonization status of GBS in pregnant people. Lactobacilli are part of normal gut and vaginal flora and have been widely used as probiotics to treat various conditions. In particular, these two strains have shown to be beneficial in the treatment of urinary tract infections and bacterial vaginosis. Our study design involves recruiting two hundred pregnant people (one hundred in each arm) through various midwifery practices in the GTA at the end of their first trimester of pregnancy. These individuals will be randomized to receive probiotics or placebo for twelve weeks of their pregnancies and will be cultured before delivery to determine their colonization status. The capsules with probiotics and placebo will be provided free of charge. The study design was chosen to minimize the cost and clients' visits to the clinic as vaginal/rectal swabs are routinely offered at 35-37 weeks of gestation.
NCT02528981 ↗ Effect of Probiotics on GBS Colonization Status During Pregnancy: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Completed Chr Hansen A/S N/A 2015-08-01 Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality in Canada. It may be passed from a study participant colonized in the genital tract by GBS to their baby during vaginal birth. While approximately 10 to 30% of pregnant people harbour GBS in the vagina or rectum, the incidence of neonatal GBS disease is 1 to 2 infants per 1000 births. The use of intrapartum antibiotics to treat colonized individuals with or without risk factors has led to a 70% decline in the incidence of early-onset GBS sepsis in the past decade. Despite this impressive decline, antibiotic resistance has become a major public health concern. Association between intrapartum antibiotic use and ampicillin resistance in E. coli isolated from neonates has previously been documented. Furthermore, while GBS has remained sensitive to penicillin, 20% are resistant to erythromycin and clindamycin, which are alternate drugs for patients allergic to penicillin. Alternative approaches are therefore needed to reduce the risk of GBS infection. We therefore propose to study the use of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14 (Lactobacillus fermentum RC-14) in the colonization status of GBS in pregnant people. Lactobacilli are part of normal gut and vaginal flora and have been widely used as probiotics to treat various conditions. In particular, these two strains have shown to be beneficial in the treatment of urinary tract infections and bacterial vaginosis. Our study design involves recruiting two hundred pregnant people (one hundred in each arm) through various midwifery practices in the GTA at the end of their first trimester of pregnancy. These individuals will be randomized to receive probiotics or placebo for twelve weeks of their pregnancies and will be cultured before delivery to determine their colonization status. The capsules with probiotics and placebo will be provided free of charge. The study design was chosen to minimize the cost and clients' visits to the clinic as vaginal/rectal swabs are routinely offered at 35-37 weeks of gestation.
NCT02528981 ↗ Effect of Probiotics on GBS Colonization Status During Pregnancy: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Completed Ryerson University N/A 2015-08-01 Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality in Canada. It may be passed from a study participant colonized in the genital tract by GBS to their baby during vaginal birth. While approximately 10 to 30% of pregnant people harbour GBS in the vagina or rectum, the incidence of neonatal GBS disease is 1 to 2 infants per 1000 births. The use of intrapartum antibiotics to treat colonized individuals with or without risk factors has led to a 70% decline in the incidence of early-onset GBS sepsis in the past decade. Despite this impressive decline, antibiotic resistance has become a major public health concern. Association between intrapartum antibiotic use and ampicillin resistance in E. coli isolated from neonates has previously been documented. Furthermore, while GBS has remained sensitive to penicillin, 20% are resistant to erythromycin and clindamycin, which are alternate drugs for patients allergic to penicillin. Alternative approaches are therefore needed to reduce the risk of GBS infection. We therefore propose to study the use of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14 (Lactobacillus fermentum RC-14) in the colonization status of GBS in pregnant people. Lactobacilli are part of normal gut and vaginal flora and have been widely used as probiotics to treat various conditions. In particular, these two strains have shown to be beneficial in the treatment of urinary tract infections and bacterial vaginosis. Our study design involves recruiting two hundred pregnant people (one hundred in each arm) through various midwifery practices in the GTA at the end of their first trimester of pregnancy. These individuals will be randomized to receive probiotics or placebo for twelve weeks of their pregnancies and will be cultured before delivery to determine their colonization status. The capsules with probiotics and placebo will be provided free of charge. The study design was chosen to minimize the cost and clients' visits to the clinic as vaginal/rectal swabs are routinely offered at 35-37 weeks of gestation.
>Trial ID >Title >Status >Phase >Start Date >Summary

Clinical Trial Conditions for ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE

Condition Name

Condition Name for ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE
Intervention Trials
Group B Streptococcal Infection 1
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Condition MeSH

Condition MeSH for ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE
Intervention Trials
Streptococcal Infections 1
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Clinical Trial Locations for ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE

Trials by Country

Trials by Country for ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE
Location Trials
Canada 1
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Clinical Trial Progress for ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE

Clinical Trial Phase

Clinical Trial Phase for ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
N/A 1
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Clinical Trial Status

Clinical Trial Status for ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
Completed 1
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Clinical Trial Sponsors for ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE

Sponsor Name

Sponsor Name for ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE
Sponsor Trials
Chr Hansen 1
Chr Hansen A/S 1
Ryerson University 1
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Sponsor Type

Sponsor Type for ERYTHROMYCIN STEARATE
Sponsor Trials
Industry 2
Other 1
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Erythromycin Stearate: Clinical Trials Update, Market Analysis, and Future Projections

Last updated: October 27, 2025

Introduction

Erythromycin stearate, a stable esterified form of erythromycin, serves as a broad-spectrum macrolide antibiotic primarily used to treat respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and certain sexually transmitted diseases. As resistance patterns evolve and new formulations emerge, understanding its clinical and commercial trajectory is vital for healthcare stakeholders and pharmaceutical companies.

This analysis provides a comprehensive update on erythromycin stearate’s clinical trial landscape, evaluates current market dynamics, and projects future growth trends based on recent developments.

Clinical Trials Landscape

Current Status of Clinical Research

Erythromycin stearate’s clinical investigations have historically focused on efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics across different populations. Recently, the focus has shifted toward exploring its role in multidrug-resistant infections and novel delivery systems.

As of 2023, clinical trial databases such as ClinicalTrials.gov list under ten active studies involving erythromycin derivatives, with most research centered on:

  • Formulation improvements (e.g., extended-release preparations) addressing compliance challenges.
  • Efficacy in respiratory and skin infections, including community-acquired pneumonia and acne vulgaris.
  • Combination therapies with other antibiotics to combat resistant pathogens, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Mycobacterium avium complex.

Notable Recent Trials

One notable trial (NCT04594378) evaluated erythromycin stearate's use in pediatric respiratory infections, demonstrating favorable safety and tolerability profiles, aligning with its established use. Another ongoing study investigates its pharmacokinetics in patients with hepatic impairment, aiming to optimize dosing strategies for vulnerable populations.

Innovative Directions

Emerging research aims to develop nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems of erythromycin stearate, enhancing tissue targeting and reducing gastrointestinal side effects. Preliminary in vitro data suggest improved drug stability and cellular penetration with these novel formulations.

Regulatory and Off-Label Research

While no recent registration for new indications has been approved, off-label applications in dermatology and pediatric infections continue to expand based on existing evidence, prompting further clinical validation necessary for official endorsement.

Market Analysis

Historical Market Trends

The global erythromycin market, valued at approximately $210 million in 2022, has experienced moderate growth driven by the drug's longstanding use, especially in developing countries. The prevalence of resistant strains has, however, challenged sustained demand, leading manufacturers to focus on derivatives and alternative antibiotics.

Erythromycin stearate remains a key formulation due to its superior stability and fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to erythromycin base. It accounts for roughly 30–40% of the erythromycin market share globally.

Regional Market Dynamics

  • North America: The mature market relies heavily on stewardship programs to curb resistance, but erythromycin stearate still maintains robust prescriptions owing to its safety profile.
  • Europe: Similar trends with regulatory efforts to reduce macrolide overuse, though clinical dependence persists.
  • Asia-Pacific: Rapid urbanization and antibiotic demand sustain growth, with a particular emphasis on affordable formulations like erythromycin stearate.
  • Emerging Markets: Minimal penetration of newer antibiotics has kept older formulations relevant; however, increasing resistance is prompting shifts toward newer agents.

Competitive Landscape

Major players include Pfizer, Teva Pharmaceuticals, and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, offering formulations in various dosage forms. Patent expirations and generic proliferation have reduced prices, making erythromycin stearate accessible but intensifying competitive pressure.

Impact of Resistance and Prescribing Trends

Rising macrolide resistance (notably Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae) has constrained erythromycin's effectiveness, prompting clinicians to seek alternative therapies. Nonetheless, erythromycin stearate remains a cost-effective option in settings with limited access to newer antibiotics.

Market Drivers and Challenges

Drivers:

  • Continued reliance in resource-constrained regions
  • Favorable safety profile, especially in pediatric populations
  • Ongoing research into extended-release formulas

Challenges:

  • Growing antibiotic resistance
  • Competition from broad-spectrum and newer antibiotics
  • Regulatory scrutiny aimed at antibiotic stewardship

Future Market Projections

Growth Outlook (2023–2030)

Despite challenges, the erythromycin stearate market is projected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 3.5% to 4.5% over the next decade. Factors influencing this include:

  • Incremental adoption of novel formulations, such as slow-release tablets, increasing compliance.
  • Emerging evidence supporting off-label uses that may eventually lead to formal approval for additional indications.
  • Expansion into developing markets driven by cost advantages.

Key Opportunities

  • Development and patenting of extended-release formulations could rejuvenate interest.
  • Combination therapies with other antibiotics or adjuvants to address resistance.
  • Investment in pharmacokinetic research to optimize dosing in special populations.

Threats to Market Growth

  • The rising prevalence of macrolide-resistant bacteria may limit the clinical utility of erythromycin stearate.
  • Increased regulatory pressure to curb antibiotic overuse.
  • The advent of novel antibiotic classes offering superior efficacy.

Strategic Recommendations

Pharmaceutical companies should invest in formulation innovation and clinical trials that establish erythromycin stearate's efficacy against resistant strains. Marketing strategies emphasizing safety, cost, and ease of administration will widen its appeal, especially in emerging markets.

Key Takeaways

  • Erythromycin stearate continues to be pertinent in managing various infections, especially in resource-limited settings.
  • Current clinical trials are exploring optimized formulations, but formal approvals for new indications remain limited.
  • Market growth hinges on addressing resistance, developing innovative delivery systems, and expanding into emerging markets.
  • Competition from newer agents and regulatory trends necessitate strategic innovation and differentiation.
  • Investment in pharmacokinetic and formulation research can extend erythromycin stearate’s clinical relevance and market lifespan.

FAQs

1. How effective is erythromycin stearate against resistant bacterial strains?
Erythromycin stearate's efficacy diminishes in the face of macrolide-resistant bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae. Ongoing research aims to develop formulations or combination therapies that can overcome resistance mechanisms.

2. Are there ongoing clinical trials exploring new indications for erythromycin stearate?
Currently, most trials focus on optimizing existing uses and improving formulations. No major studies are in progress for significantly new indications as of 2023.

3. How does erythromycin stearate compare to other macrolides in terms of safety?
Erythromycin stearate has a favorable safety profile, with fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to erythromycin base, making it suitable for pediatric and prolonged use.

4. Is erythromycin stearate being developed as a slow-release or targeted delivery system?
Yes, preliminary research is investigating nanoparticle and extended-release formulations aimed at improving compliance and tissue targeting.

5. What are the primary factors influencing the future market demand for erythromycin stearate?
Factors include global antibiotic resistance trends, formulation innovations, healthcare access in emerging markets, and regulatory policies surrounding antibiotic stewardship.

References

[1] ClinicalTrials.gov, 2023. Search results for erythromycin formulations.
[2] MarketWatch, "Global Erythromycin Market Size, Share & Trends", 2022.
[3] CDC, "Antibiotic Resistance Threats in the United States", 2019.
[4] Pharma Intelligence, "Erythromycin Derivatives: Clinical and Market Outlook", 2021.
[5] WHO, "Antimicrobial Resistance: Global Report on Surveillance", 2014.

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