Macrolides Flashcards
(20 cards)
What class of antibiotics are macrolides?
Macrolides are used in Lyme disease
Macrolides include erythromycin, azithromycin, and clarithromycin.
What is the mechanism of action of macrolides?
Bacteriostatic, which stops bacterial cell growth
Why are macrolides used in penicillin allergic patients?
They are broad spectrum but not identical to penicillin
What are the common side effects of erythromycin?
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
What is recommended for azithromycin dosage due to its long half-life?
Once a day dosage
What is the plasma concentration characteristic of azithromycin?
Low plasma concentrations, high tissue concentrations
What effect do clarithromycin and erythromycin have on other drugs?
They are enzyme inhibitors, increasing plasma concentration of drugs like warfarin and simvastatin
Does erythromycin have good activity against influenzae?
No, it has poor activity against influenzae
Do clarithromycin and azithromycin have poor activity against influenzae?
No
What should be done with erythromycin dosing in mild infections?
Give lower doses
Is erythromycin safe to use in pregnancy?
Yes
What potential toxicity can occur with high doses of erythromycin?
Ototoxicity
What is a cautionary label for erythromycin regarding indigestion remedies?
Do not take indigestion remedies two hours before or after
What are the recommended dosing practices for erythromycin?
Space doses evenly throughout the day and swallow medicine whole
What is the maximum dosage for chlamydia treatment with azithromycin in the community?
One gram single dose and one gram maximum daily
What is unique about clarithromycin compared to erythromycin?
Clarithromycin is an erythromycin derivative with more activity and is more stable
How often is clarithromycin prescribed?
Two times a day
Is clarithromycin safe in pregnancy?
No, especially in the first trimester
What should be avoided when using clarithromycin?
In hepatic impairment and renal impairment
What are the cautionary labels for clarithromycin?
Take doses evenly, take with or after food, swallow whole or dissolve in water before taking
