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Roxithromycin versus penicillin in the treatment of erysipelas in adults: a comparative study
Abstract:
A prospective, randomized, multicentre trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of roxithromycin (150 mg b.i.d. orally) and penicillin (2.5 MU x 8 daily intravenously, then 6 MU daily orally) in the treatment of hospitalized adult patients with erysipelas. Seventy-two patients entered the study. Thirty-one patients in the roxithromycin group and 38 patients in the penicillin group completed the trial. The overall efficacy rates (cure without additional antibiotics) were 84% (26/31) in the roxithromycin group and 76% (29/38) in the penicillin group (P = 0.43). No side-effects were observed in the roxithromycin-treated patients whereas rashes occurred in two cases in the penicillin group, leading to exclusion from the study. Oral roxithromycin can thus be considered an effective and well-tolerated treatment for erysipelas in adult hospitalized patients.
Insights
Roxithromycin demonstrated high efficacy and excellent safety for treating hospitalized adult erysipelas patients. This antibiotic offers a well-tolerated oral treatment option compared to traditional penicillin therapy.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Erysipelas is a common bacterial skin infection often requiring hospitalization.
- Penicillin has been the standard treatment, but concerns about side effects and resistance exist.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy and safety of roxithromycin versus penicillin in hospitalized adult patients with erysipelas.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, randomized, multicenter trial involving 72 hospitalized adult patients.
- Patients received either oral roxithromycin (150 mg b.i.d.) or intravenous/oral penicillin.
- Efficacy was defined as cure without additional antibiotics; safety was monitored for adverse events.
Main Results:
- Overall efficacy rates were 84% for roxithromycin and 76% for penicillin (P=0.43).
- No side effects were reported with roxithromycin.
- Two patients in the penicillin group experienced rashes, leading to their exclusion.
Conclusions:
- Oral roxithromycin is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for adult erysipelas.
- Roxithromycin presents a favorable safety profile compared to penicillin for this indication.