Glycylcyclines

Glycylcyclines are a class of antibiotics that were developed in response to the growing rate of bacterial resistance to existing antibiotics. They are derived from tetracycline antibiotics and are designed to overcome two common mechanisms of tetracycline resistance.

History

The first glycylcycline, tigecycline, was approved by the FDA in 2005. It was developed by Wyeth (now part of Pfizer) and is marketed under the brand name Tygacil.

Mechanism of action

Glycylcyclines work by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, which prevents the attachment of aminoacyl-tRNA to the ribosome. This inhibits protein synthesis and thus prevents the bacteria from growing and multiplying.

Resistance

Resistance to glycylcyclines can occur through several mechanisms, including efflux pumps and ribosomal protection proteins. However, because of their design, glycylcyclines are less susceptible to these resistance mechanisms than other tetracyclines.

Clinical use

Glycylcyclines are used to treat a variety of infections, including skin and skin structure infections, intra-abdominal infections, and community-acquired pneumonia. They are also used in situations where other antibiotics are ineffective due to resistance.

Side effects

Common side effects of glycylcyclines include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. More serious side effects can include pancreatitis, liver toxicity, and an increased risk of death compared to other antibiotics.

See also

• List of antibiotics
• Antibiotic resistance
• Tetracycline antibiotics

Glycylcyclines Resources
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