Carrimycin

An overview of the antibiotic Carrimycin

Carrimycin
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Carrimycin is a macrolide antibiotic that is used in the treatment of various bacterial infections. It is derived from the bacterium Streptomyces and is known for its effectiveness against a range of Gram-positive bacteria.

Mechanism of Action

Carrimycin functions by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It binds to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, thereby preventing the translocation of peptides. This action effectively halts the growth and replication of bacteria, making it a potent bacteriostatic agent.

Clinical Uses

Carrimycin is primarily used to treat infections caused by susceptible strains of bacteria. These include:

• Respiratory tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Gastrointestinal infections

Pharmacokinetics

Carrimycin is administered orally and is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. It is distributed widely throughout the body and achieves therapeutic concentrations in various tissues. The drug is metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily in the bile.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Carrimycin include:

• Gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and diarrhea
• Allergic reactions
• Hepatotoxicity

Resistance

Bacterial resistance to Carrimycin can occur through several mechanisms, including:

• Modification of the target site on the ribosome
• Efflux pumps that expel the antibiotic from the bacterial cell
• Enzymatic degradation of the antibiotic

Related pages

• Antibiotic resistance
• Macrolide antibiotics
• Streptomyces

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  Carrimycin