erythromicin, heart failure link

i have been pescribed erythromicin five times this year, and im now on it for the sixth time for dental abcess (abscess) as im allergic to pennicillin (penicillin). i have heard that there is a link between erythromicin and heart failure , heart attack, and sudden death. now im really worried and wondering whether to stop taking my erythromicin, im on 250 mls four times a day, im 41 and i dont smoke or drink. is this link rare or should i be worried?

[Mukesh Garg, MD]

All drugs including Erythromycin have some side effects, particularly interaction with other drugs metabolized through the same pathway. Have your pharmacist and physician review all your medications for possible interactions