The Concomitant Use of Azithromycin in Clinical Disease Management

Abstract

Azithromycin, an extensively used second-generation macrolide antibiotic, has been prevalent in the management of a wide range of bacterial infections. However, due to extensive misuse, azithromycin resistance has emerged in various bacterial strains, including Staphylococcus aureus and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This review summarizes the mechanisms of azithromycin resistance, including 23S rRNA mutations, ribosomal protein alterations, efflux pump overexpression, and chromosomal mutations. To combat azithromycin resistance, the paper discusses strategies such as rational use of azithromycin, enhanced surveillance, and development of new drugs. The paper also highlights the potential of combination therapy with other antibiotics to improve the efficacy of azithromycin treatment against resistant bacteria.