Macrolides and lincosamides

Macrolides and lincosamides are first choice bacteriostatic antibiotics used in veterinary dermatology. The main antibiotics in these classes are erythromycin, lincomycin, clindamycin and tylosin. They are well absorbed if given orally and are able to penetrate well into infected skin. Their spectrum of action comprises bacteria commonly associated with skin infections, including staphylococci. Their main disadvantages are the rapid development of bacterial resistance and occasional gastroenteric upset, most often seen with erythromycin. More recently developed macrolides, such as azithromycin and clarithomycin, are bactericidal, have a larger spectrum of action, a longer endurance, less resistance and may be given once a day instead of two or three times daily.