Macrolide Antibiotics
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Overview
Macrolide antibiotics are broad-spectrum drugs used to treat respiratory infections, skin infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. They are often used as alternatives for patients allergic to penicillin.
How do macrolide antibiotics work?
Macrolides bind to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, blocking the translocation step of protein synthesis. This bacteriostatic action prevents bacterial growth and replication.
Drugs in this class
- Azithromycin (Zithromax, Z-Pack)