Erythromycin: prophylaxis against recurrent small bowel obstruction

We describe three cases where erythromycin suspension has been used successfully in preventing recurrence of small bowel obstruction in patients with terminal illness and for whom it proved more effective than standard preparations such as metoclopramide and domperidone. These patients also experienced a longer term benefit over some months. With recent alerts over longer term use of metoclopramide and domperidone, we demonstrate that erythromycin is a viable alternative prokinetic in patients with terminal illness at risk of small bowel obstruction instead of or alongside metoclopramide and domperidone. More research is required to establish the point at which erythromycin should be considered in the management of symptoms. In addition, research into the possibility of a viable alternative to erythromycin is needed.