Erythromycyclamine retains the antibacterial properties of erythromycin oral administration. The prodrug, dirithromycin, is provided as enteric coated tablets to protect it from acid catalyzed hydrolysis in the stomach.
Erythromycyclamine maintains the antibacterial effects of erythromycin when taken orally.  The prodrug, dirithromycin, is formulated into enteric-coated tablets to shield it from being broken down by stomach acid.