Roxithromycin

Roxithromycin is a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic. It is used to treat respiratory tract, urinary and soft tissue infections. Roxithromycin is derived from erythromycin, containing the same 14-membered lactone ring. However, an N-oxime side chain is attached to the lactone ring. It is also currently undergoing clinical trials for the treatment of male-pattern hair loss.

Roxithromycin is available under several brandnames. Roxithromycin is not available in the United States. Roxithromycin is available in Australia. Roxithromycin has also been tested to possess antimalarial activity.

History

German pharmaceutical company roussel Uclaf brought out roxithromycin in 1987.

Available forms

Roxithromycin is commonly available as tablets or oral suspension.

Mechanism of action

Roxithromycin prevents bacteria from growing, by interfering with their protein synthesis. Roxithromycin binds to the subunit 50S of the bacterial ribosome, and thus inhibits the translocation of peptides. Roxithromycin has similar antimicrobial spectrum as erythromycin, but is more effective against certain gram-negative bacteria, particularly Legionella pneumophila.