Macrolides

Macrolides are a class of antibiotics that have a large macrocyclic lactone ring. They are derived from Streptomyces bacteria. Macrolides are used to treat bacterial infections that are caused by Gram-positive bacteria and some Gram-negative bacteria.

History[edit | edit source]

The first macrolide, Erythromycin, was isolated in 1952 from a strain of Saccharopolyspora erythraea. Since then, several other macrolides have been discovered, including clarithromycin, roxithromycin, and azithromycin.

Mechanism of action[edit | edit source]

Macrolides work by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria. They bind to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, preventing the translocation of peptides.

Clinical use[edit | edit source]

Macrolides are used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, sexually transmitted infections, and Helicobacter pylori infections. They are also used as a second-line treatment for Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infections and as a prophylaxis in patients with cystic fibrosis.

Side effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of macrolides include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, they can cause hepatotoxicity, QT prolongation, and hearing loss.

Resistance[edit | edit source]

Bacterial resistance to macrolides can occur through several mechanisms, including target modification, active efflux, and drug modification.

See also[edit | edit source]

Macrolides Resources
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