| Mechanism | Broad spec bacteriostatic abx - inhibits bacterial protein synthesis |
| Typical Dose | 250-500mg QDS |
| Indications | * Alternative to penicillin * Gram +ve (and some gram -ve) infections * Mycoplasma pneumoniae, legionella. chlamydia, Acne vulgaris, rosacea |
| Contra-indications | Liver disease Caution: in electrolyte disturbances (pre-disposition to QT interval prolongation) |
| Side-effects | Common: N&V, diarrhoea, rash phlebitis Rarely: reversible hearing loss, QT prolongation |
| Interactions | Inhibits hepatic drug-metabolising enzymes - so increases exposure to: * Antihistamines * Cyclosporin * Digoxin * Theophylline * Warfarin |
| Elimination | |
| Additional Notes | >14 days ox Abx increase risk of hepatic damage |