MACROLIDES

• Macrolides are class of antibiotics

derived from Saccharopolyspora erythrae
(originally called Sreptomyces erythreus),
a type of soil-borne bacteria.
 MECHANISM OF ACTION

• Macrolides inhibit protein synthesis in bacteria

by reversibly binding to the P site of the 50S
unit of the ribosome. Another potential
mechanism is premature dissociation of the
peptidyl-tRNA from the ribosome.
• Macrolides are actively concentrated within
leukocytes, and thus are transported into the
site of infection.
• Macrolides mainly affect gram-positive cocci
and intracellular pathogens such as
mycoplasma, chlamydia, and legionella.
 EXAMPLES OF MACROLIDES

• Erythromycin
• Azithromycin
• Clarithromycin
• Fidaxomicin
• Spiramycin
• Telithromycin
 SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

• Assess for the cautions and contraindications

(allergy, CNS depression, CV disorders) to prevent
any untoward complications.
• Perform a thorough physical assessment to establish
baseline data before drug therapy begins, to
determine effectiveness of therapy , and to evaluate
for occurrence of any adverse effects associated with
drug therapy.
• Perform culture and sensitivity tests at the site of
infection to ensure appropriate use of the drug.
• Conduct orientation and reflex assessment, as well as
auditory testing to evaluate any CNS effects of the
drug.