Macrolides are a class of antibiotics that work by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. They bind to the 50S ribosomal subunit, blocking the translocation process during translation, which prevents the bacteria from producing essential proteins needed for growth and reproduction.
Macrolides are commonly used to treat respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections. They are effective against both Gram-positive and some Gram-negative bacteria, as well as atypical pathogens like Mycoplasma and Chlamydia.
