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Updated: May 21, 2026

Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
[The safety of macrolide antibiotics: critical analysis]
Abstract:
Macrolide antibiotics are a safest group of antimicrobial drugs well tolerated by the patients. They have no hemato-, nephro- or cerebrotoxic action, do not cause chondro- or arthropathies, nor do they affect the photosensitizing system. Also, they are/free of many negative effects characteristic of other groups of antibiotics, such as anaphylactic reactions, severe toxico-allergic syndromes, and diarrhea. Most adverse effects of macrolides described in this review are functional disorders of various organs and systems, they are reversible and disappear after the termination of therapy. The beneficial safety profile of macrolides allows prescribing them for the treatment of various infections in inpatients and outpatients including children, pregnant women, elderly persons, and those suffering concomitant diseases.
Insights
Macrolide antibiotics are a safe and well-tolerated antimicrobial drug class. Their minimal adverse effects and reversible side effects make them suitable for diverse patient populations and infections.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- Macrolide antibiotics represent a crucial class of antimicrobial agents.
- Assessing the safety profile of macrolides is essential for clinical practice.
Purpose:
- To review the safety and tolerability of macrolide antibiotics.
- To highlight the advantages of macrolides over other antibiotic classes.
Summary:
- Macrolides exhibit a favorable safety profile with minimal toxicity (hematologic, nephrologic, cerebrotoxic).
- They are free from severe adverse effects like anaphylaxis and toxico-allergic syndromes.
- Reported side effects are typically functional, reversible, and resolve post-therapy.
Impact:
- The safety of macrolides supports their use in broad patient groups, including children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
- Their tolerability facilitates treatment for various infections in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
- Macrolides offer a valuable therapeutic option with a low risk of serious adverse events.
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