More Antibiotic Information

Tetracylcine

end in “-cycline”

Do not take with calcium or Magnesium

DO NOT GIVE TO CHILDREN (damages bone and teeth)

A broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including MRSA and Lyme disease. It should be taken on an empty stomach and avoided in children due to potential damage to bones and teeth.

Penicillins

Beta lactam antibiotics

Strep, Staph, pneumococcal infections

ends in “-cillin”

Consider allergies and renal impairment

Safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding, may cause rash.

Commonly used for bacterial infections, including those caused by Gram-positive bacteria.

They inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis.

Fluroquinolones

ends in “-floxacin”

Cause Achilles Tendon Rupture and may lead to other tendon injuries.

A class of broad-spectrum antibiotics that inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase, effective against a variety of infections such as respiratory and urinary tract infections. They include drugs like ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin, and should be avoided in pregnant women and individuals with a history of tendon issues due to the risk of Achilles tendon rupture.

Aminoglycosides

A class of antibiotics that inhibit bacterial protein synthesis. They are effective against aerobic Gram-negative bacteria and include drugs like gentamicin and amikacin. Aminoglycosides can cause nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity, and monitoring of kidney function is recommended.

ends in “-mycin, -micin”

They are typically used for serious infections and may require monitoring for toxicity.

Serious infections

Vancomycin

A glycopeptide antibiotic used primarily to treat serious infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, including MRSA. It inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis and is often reserved for resistant infections.

RED MAN SYNDROME (occurs if given too quickly), may cause nephrotoxicity and requires monitoring of renal function. Ototoxicity may also occur, especially with prolonged use. ————- is usually administered intravenously for severe infections.

Macrolides

Ends in “-thromycin” Fidaxomicin

Side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances and potential liver toxicity. ———- are a class of antibiotics effective against a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory and skin infections, and are often used as alternatives to penicillin.

Cephalosporins

A class of antibiotics that are structurally and functionally related to penicillin. They are used to treat a wide range of infections. They inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis and are categorized into generations, each with varying efficacy against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Broad Spectrum

Bactericide and Bacteriostatic

Can cause C.Diff

phlebitis risk

Skin and urinary infections

Sulfonamides

commonly used to treat urinary tract infections and some respiratory infections.

Steven Johnson’s Syndrome

Not used much due to resistance

Metronidazole

An antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication used primarily to treat bacterial infections, particularly anaerobic bacteria, and certain parasitic infections. It is effective against conditions such as bacterial vaginosis and Clostridium difficile infections.

DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL- causes violent vomiting that can last up to 48 hours

and should be avoided during treatment. It also has potential side effects including nausea, headache, and a metallic taste.

Liver impairment may increase the risk of toxicity. It is important to monitor liver function during treatment.

Aminoglycosides (MEDS)

Gentamicin

Amikacin

Tobramycin

Neomycin

Streptomycin

A class of antibiotics used primarily to treat serious infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. They work by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis and are often used in combination with other antibiotics.

Macrolides (MEDS)

Azithromycin, Clarithromycin, Erythromycin

Gram-Positive Bacteria

Bacteria that have a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall, retaining the crystal violet stain used in Gram staining. They are typically susceptible to antibiotics such as penicillin.

Examples include Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species. are often associated with infections such as pneumonia and skin infections.

Gram-negative Bacteria

Bacteria that have a thin peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane, which do not retain the crystal violet stain during Gram staining. They are often more resistant to antibiotics compared to Gram-positive bacteria.

They are commonly associated with infections such as pneumonia, sepsis, and urinary tract infections.