NiHowdy > Drug Classes > Macrolides

Browse Medications by Drug Class: Macrolides

Written by Amar Lunagaria

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Reviewed by James Wong

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Published Jan 15, 2025

Fact checked

What are Macrolides?

Macrolides are a class of antibiotics used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, particularly those affecting the respiratory tract, skin, and soft tissues. These medications work by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, which stops bacterial growth and replication. A unique characteristic of macrolides is their effectiveness against both gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria, along with their anti-inflammatory properties, which make them useful in certain chronic conditions. NiHowdy ensures affordable access to macrolides, empowering patients to manage bacterial infections effectively.

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List of drugs in Macrolides

Drug Name	More Information	NiHowdy Prices & Bitcoin Rebate

AzaSite	AzaSite Information	AzaSite Pricing
Azithromycin	Azithromycin Information	Azithromycin Pricing
Clarithromycin	Clarithromycin Information	Clarithromycin Pricing
Clarithromycin ER	Clarithromycin ER Information	Clarithromycin ER Pricing
Dificid	Dificid Information	Dificid Pricing
E.E.S. 400	E.E.S. 400 Information	E.E.S. 400 Pricing
E.E.S. Granules	E.E.S. Granules Information	E.E.S. Granules Pricing
Ery	Ery Information	Ery Pricing
Ery-Tab	Ery-Tab Information	Ery-Tab Pricing
Erygel	Erygel Information	Erygel Pricing
EryPed 200	EryPed 200 Information	EryPed 200 Pricing
EryPed 400	EryPed 400 Information	EryPed 400 Pricing
Erythrocin Stearate	Erythrocin Stearate Information	Erythrocin Stearate Pricing
Erythromycin	Erythromycin Information	Erythromycin Pricing
Erythromycin Base	Erythromycin Base Information	Erythromycin Base Pricing
Erythromycin Ethylsuccinate	Erythromycin Ethylsuccinate Information	Erythromycin Ethylsuccinate Pricing
Zithromax	Zithromax Information	Zithromax Pricing
Zithromax Tri-Pak	Zithromax Tri-Pak Information	Zithromax Tri-Pak Pricing
Zithromax Z-Pak	Zithromax Z-Pak Information	Zithromax Z-Pak Pricing

Brief history about Macrolides?

Macrolides were first discovered in the 1950s with the development of erythromycin, which was derived from a strain of Saccharopolyspora erythraea. Over time, new macrolides like azithromycin and clarithromycin were developed to improve efficacy, reduce side effects, and provide longer-lasting therapeutic effects. Today, macrolides are widely used in both outpatient and hospital settings for their broad-spectrum activity and relatively low risk of severe side effects. NiHowdy simplifies access to these essential antibiotics, ensuring affordability and convenience for all patients.

How do Macrolides work?

Macrolides work by binding to bacterial ribosomes, inhibiting the production of proteins essential for bacterial growth and survival. This action makes them bacteriostatic, stopping bacterial replication. For example, azithromycin is effective in treating respiratory tract infections by targeting pathogens like Streptococcus pneumoniae. NiHowdy provides affordable access to these effective antibiotics, ensuring patients receive timely treatment for bacterial infections.

What are Macrolides used to treat?

Respiratory Tract Infections

Macrolides, such as azithromycin and clarithromycin, are widely used to treat bacterial respiratory infections, including pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinusitis. Their activity against atypical bacteria like Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Legionella makes them essential in treating atypical pneumonia.

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

Macrolides are effective in treating skin infections like cellulitis and impetigo caused by gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes.

Ear Infections (Otitis Media)

For middle ear infections, macrolides like azithromycin are often used, especially in children who are allergic to penicillins.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Macrolides, such as azithromycin, are first-line treatments for sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and are often used in combination therapy for gonorrhea.

Helicobacter pylori Infection

Clarithromycin is a key component of combination therapy to eradicate Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria responsible for peptic ulcers.

Whooping Cough (Pertussis)

Macrolides are the drugs of choice for treating and preventing the spread of Bordetella pertussis, the bacteria that causes whooping cough.

Who should consider Macrolides medications?

Adults

Macrolides are commonly prescribed for adults with bacterial infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or skin infections. They are particularly beneficial for patients with allergies to penicillins. NiHowdy ensures adults can access these treatments affordably and conveniently.

Children

Macrolides are widely used in pediatric populations for infections like ear infections, strep throat, and pneumonia. They are safe and effective when dosed appropriately for age and weight. NiHowdy supports families with cost-effective solutions and reliable resources for managing pediatric bacterial infections.

Seniors

Seniors with bacterial infections benefit significantly from macrolides, particularly for respiratory conditions like pneumonia. However, older adults require careful monitoring due to potential drug interactions with other medications. NiHowdy simplifies access to macrolides for seniors, offering affordable options tailored to their unique needs.

Are Macrolides safe?

Macrolides are generally safe when prescribed appropriately. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. Rare but serious risks include QT prolongation (a heart rhythm issue) and liver enzyme elevations. Regular monitoring is recommended for patients at higher risk of these complications. NiHowdy provides safe and affordable access to macrolides, supported by expert guidance to manage these risks responsibly.

Can I take Macrolides during pregnancy?

Certain macrolides, like azithromycin, are considered safe during pregnancy and are often used to treat bacterial infections in pregnant individuals. However, patients should consult their healthcare provider to ensure the medication is appropriate for their condition. NiHowdy provides cost-effective access to expert guidance and safe treatments for pregnant patients.

Are Macrolides safe to take while lactating?

Macrolides are generally considered safe during lactation, with minimal transfer into breast milk and low risk to the nursing infant. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for specific recommendations based on the medication. NiHowdy ensures affordable access to trusted information and safe treatment options for breastfeeding parents.

Are Macrolides controlled substances?

Macrolides are not classified as controlled substances but require a prescription due to their potential for misuse and the need for appropriate dosing. NiHowdy simplifies the prescription process, ensuring patients receive these critical antibiotics affordably and responsibly.

Side effects of Macrolides?

Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and headache. Rare but serious risks include QT prolongation, liver enzyme elevations, and allergic reactions. Patients experiencing severe side effects should consult their healthcare provider immediately. NiHowdy helps patients manage these risks with expert-backed support and affordable care options.

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Cost considerations and insurance coverage for Macrolides

The cost of macrolides varies depending on the specific medication and formulation (e.g., oral or intravenous). Generic options like azithromycin and clarithromycin are generally affordable, and many insurance plans cover these antibiotics. NiHowdy offers discounts, rebates, and Bitcoin rewards to ensure these life-saving medications remain accessible and cost-effective.

How do I get rebates on Macrolides?

NiHowdy's Bitcoin rebate program for macrolide prescriptions offers patients a unique opportunity to save on healthcare costs while earning potential financial growth. This innovative approach makes managing bacterial infections both affordable and rewarding, improving access to critical care while building long-term value.