Contraindications – When should macrolides not be given? | Macrolides

Contraindications – When should macrolides not be given?

Macrolides must not be given, especially if there is an allergy to the active ingredient. The macrolides must also not be given if there is an intolerance to other substances contained in the drug. Further contraindications exist for example for liver diseases. Since the macrolides are metabolized in the liver and can cause damage there, macrolides must not be taken in the case of severe liver disease. If necessary, a significantly lower dose of macrolides can be administered for liver damage, but it is better to use other antibiotic groups.

Dosage

The dosage of macrolides depends on the group of macrolides, the underlying infectious disease and, if necessary, the body weight of the treated person. The severity of the disease may also play a role in the dosage. In addition, different dosages are used for administration in the form of a tablet and administration via the vein (intravenous).

Erythromycin is prescribed in a maximum dose of 4g per day. Through the vein the standard dose is twice 1g (= 1000 mg), in the form of tablets 500 mg are usually taken three times a day. Azithromycin, on the other hand, is taken only once a day, usually 500 mg each time.

Clarythomycin can be taken twice daily, the dosage can be between 250 and 500 mg per tablet. An adjustment of the dosage must be made, especially in case of liver damage. Macrolides must not be used if the liver is damaged too much.

Price

The price for macrolides cannot be determined in a lump sum. It depends mainly on the form of administration (tablets or solution for administration via the vein). The dosage and size of the package also play a role, as does the exact group of macrolides contained in the preparation.

Macrolides require a prescription and can therefore only be purchased in pharmacies with a prescription. Usually only the prescription fee of 5€ is due, the remaining costs are covered by the health insurance. In case of an intravenous therapy of macrolides (administration of the antibiotic into the vein), the drug usually does not have to be purchased in the pharmacy itself. Instead, the treatment takes place, for example, during a stay in hospital. In this case, the health insurance covers the full costs of the antibiotic therapy with macrolides.