Macrolide Antibiotics
Macrolides are a class of antibiotics commonly used to treat respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and sexually transmitted infections. Azithromycin (Z-Pack) is one of the most prescribed antibiotics in the United States.
Mechanism of Action
Macrolide Antibiotics work by stopping bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow and multiply. They do this by attaching to a specific part of the bacteria's machinery called the 50S ribosomal subunit. This action blocks the bacteria's ability to build new proteins, which is essential for their survival. By stopping protein production, these antibiotics effectively kill the bacteria or prevent them from spreading, helping your body fight off the infection.
Clinical Uses
This class of antibiotics is commonly used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, especially those affecting the lungs, skin, ears, and throat. They are often prescribed for conditions like bronchitis, pneumonia, strep throat, skin infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections. Macrolides are also a good option for people who are allergic to penicillin, and some are used to treat specific stomach infections or prevent certain infections in those with weakened immune systems.
Side Effects & Safety
The most common side effects of macrolide antibiotics include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Some people may also experience headaches or changes in taste. More serious, but less common, side effects can include liver problems, hearing loss, and an irregular heartbeat, especially with higher doses or in people with existing heart conditions. It's important to tell your doctor if you experience any severe or unusual symptoms.
Conditions Treated
Macrolide Antibiotics medications are used to treat the following conditions:
Macrolide Antibiotics Medications (9)
Azithromycin
Brand: Azithromycin
AZITHROMYCIN (brand name: Azithromycin) is a Macrolide Antibiotics. 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Azithromycin tablets are a macrolide antibacterial drug indicated for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the specific conditions listed below. Azithromycin tablets are a macrolide…
$4–$20/course/month
Azithromycin dihydrate
Brand: Azithromycin Dihydrate
AZITHROMYCIN DIHYDRATE (brand name: Azithromycin Dihydrate) is a Macrolide Antibiotics. 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Azithromycin is a macrolide antibacterial drug indicated for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the specific conditions listed below. Recommended dosages and durations of therapy in…
$10–$50/month/month
Azithromycin monohydrate
Brand: Azasite
AZITHROMYCIN MONOHYDRATE (brand name: AZASITE) is a Macrolide Antibiotics. 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE AzaSite ® is indicated for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis caused by susceptible isolates of the following microorganisms: CDC coryneform group G Efficacy for this organism was studied in fewer than 10 infections. Haemophilus influenzae Staphylococcus aureus…
$150–$400/month/month
Clarithromycin
Brand: Clarithromycin
CLARITHROMYCIN (brand name: Clarithromycin) is a Macrolide Antibiotics. 1.1 Acute Bacterial Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis Clarithromycin tablets are indicated in adults for the treatment of mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible isolates due to Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae [see…
$20–$70/month/month
Erythromycin
Brand: Erythromycin
ERYTHROMYCIN (brand name: Erythromycin) is a Macrolide Antibiotics. INDICATIONS AND USAGE For the treatment of superficial ocular infections involving the conjunctiva and/or cornea caused by organisms susceptible to erythromycin. For prophylaxis of ophthalmia neonatorum due to N. gonorrhoeae or C. trachomatis . The effectiveness of erythromycin in the prevention of…
$50–$200/month/month
Erythromycin ethylsuccinate
Brand: Erythromycin Ethylsuccinate
ERYTHROMYCIN ETHYLSUCCINATE (brand name: ERYTHROMYCIN ETHYLSUCCINATE) is a Macrolide Antibiotics. INDICATIONS AND USAGE To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of erythromycin ethylsuccinate tablets, USP and other antibacterial drugs, erythromycin ethylsuccinate tablets, USP should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or…
$50–$150/month/month
Erythromycin lactobionate
Brand: Erythromycin Lactobionate
ERYTHROMYCIN LACTOBIONATE (brand name: Erythromycin Lactobionate) is a Macrolide Antibiotics. INDICATIONS AND USAGE Erythromycin lactobionate for injection, USP is indicated in the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated organisms in the diseases listed below when oral administration is not possible or when the severity of the infection requires immediate…
$200–$500/month/month
Erythromycin topical solution 2%
Brand: erythromycin topical solution 2%
ERYTHROMYCIN TOPICAL SOLUTION 2% (brand name: erythromycin topical solution 2%) is a Macrolide Antibiotics. INDICATIONS AND USAGE Erythromycin topical solution, 2% is indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris.
$30–$80/month/month
Fidaxomicin
Brand: Fidaxomicin
FIDAXOMICIN (brand name: Fidaxomicin) is a Macrolide Antibiotics. 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Fidaxomicin tablets are a macrolide antibacterial indicated in adult patients for the treatment of C. difficile -associated diarrhea. ( 1.1 ) To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of fidaxomicin and other antibacterial drugs,…
$5,000–$10,000/month/month
Compare Macrolide Antibiotics Prices
See typical monthly costs, generic availability, and savings options for all 9 Macrolide Antibiotics medications side-by-side.
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The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.