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

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

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

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

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

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

See also

• List of antibiotics
• Antibiotic resistance
• Pharmacology

Macrolides Resources
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