Infectious disease clinics of North America
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Infect. Dis. Clin. North Am. · Sep 2004
ReviewPathogens resistant to antimicrobial agents: epidemiology, molecular mechanisms, and clinical management.
Resistance to antimicrobial drugs is increasing at an alarming rate among both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Traditionally, bacteria resistant to multiple antimicrobial agents have been restricted to the nosocomial environment. A disturbing trend has been the recent emergence and spread of resistant pathogens and resistance traits in nursing homes, the community, as well as in hospitals. This article reviews the epidemiology, molecular mechanisms of resistance, and treatment options for pathogens resistant to antimicrobial drugs.
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Infect. Dis. Clin. North Am. · Sep 2004
ReviewMacrolides and ketolides: azithromycin, clarithromycin, telithromycin.
The advanced macrolides, azithromycin and clarithromycin, and the ketolide telithromycin are structural analogues of erythromycin. They have several distinct advantages when compared with erythromycin including enhanced spectrum of activity, more favorable pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, once daily administration, and improved tolerability. This article reviews the pharmacokinetics, antimicrobial activity, clinical use, and adverse effects of these antimicrobial agents.