How Azithromycin Works? : A Simple Explanation

 Azithromycin

Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic with a complex chemical structure. Here are the key aspects of its chemical bonding:

Molecular Formula: C38H72N2O12
Structure: Azithromycin consists of a 15-membered lactone ring with various

             functional groups attached.

Functional Groups:

Ether Bonds: The molecule has several ether bonds (C-O-C) connecting

                        different parts of the structure.

Alcohol Groups: There are five alcohol groups (-OH), three of which can be

                       oxidized into ketones.

Amino Group: Contains a dimethylamino group (-N(CH₃)₂).
Ketone Group: One ketone group (C=O) is present in the structure.

Key Bonds:

Carbon-Carbon Bonds (C-C): Form the backbone of the molecule.
Carbon-Oxygen Bonds (C-O): Present in ether and alcohol groups.
Carbon-Nitrogen Bonds (C-N): Found in the amino group.

Hydrogen Bonds: Potential for hydrogen bonding due to the presence of -OH groups.

 

How Azithromycin works?
Azithromycin works by targeting bacterial protein synthesis, which is essential

for bacterial growth and replication. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its mechanism:

 

Binding to Ribosomal Subunit: Azithromycin binds to the 23S rRNA of the 50S ribosomal subunit in

bacteria. This subunit is a crucial component of the bacterial ribosome, which is responsible for protein synthesis.

Inhibition of Protein Synthesis: By binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, azithromycin inhibits the

transpeptidation and translocation steps of protein synthesis. This prevents the ribosome from moving along the mRNA, effectively halting the addition of new amino acids to the growing peptide chain.

Disruption of Bacterial Growth: With protein synthesis inhibited, bacteria cannot produce essential proteins

needed for their growth and replication. This leads to a bacteriostatic effect, where bacterial growth is halted.

Bactericidal Effect: At higher concentrations, azithromycin can have a bactericidal effect,

meaning it can kill the bacteria directly. This is particularly useful in treating severe infections.

Broad-Spectrum Activity: Azithromycin is effective against a wide range of bacteria, including

Mycobacterium avium, M. intracellulare, and Chlamydia trachomatis. This broad-spectrum activity makes it a versatile antibiotic for various infections.

Pharmacokinetics: Azithromycin has a long half-life and excellent tissue penetration, allowing

for shorter treatment durations. It is usually taken once daily, which improves patient compliance. By disrupting the bacterial protein synthesis process, azithromycin effectively treats bacterial infections and helps the immune system clear the infection.

Available Brands of Azithromycin :  AZIKOM-500, AZIKOM-250, PREAZI-500

To Know More Visit : MK Healthcare or Pharma Finders