Azithromycin

Definition

Azithromycin is a broad-spectrum macrolide antibiotic effective against a variety of bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Azithromycin is often used to treat respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and sexually transmitted infections.
2. It can be administered orally or intravenously and has a relatively long half-life, allowing for once-daily dosing.
3. Azithromycin is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
4. Common side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and diarrhea.
5. It is particularly useful in treating atypical pathogens like Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydia trachomatis.

Review Questions

Related terms

Macrolide Antibiotics: A class of antibiotics that includes erythromycin, clarithromycin, and azithromycin, known for inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis.

Chlamydia trachomatis:

A type of bacteria that can cause various infections including sexually transmitted diseases; often treated with azithromycin.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae:

An atypical bacterium causing respiratory infections; commonly treated with azithromycin.