Azithromycin ophthalmic solution combats bacterial infections by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria. This prevents protein synthesis, effectively halting bacterial growth and leading to their demise.
Specifically, azithromycin inhibits the peptidyl transferase activity of the ribosome. This process is critical for the bacteria to build proteins necessary for survival and reproduction. By disrupting this process, azithromycin successfully eliminates the infection.
The drug’s broad-spectrum activity means it’s effective against a wide range of bacterial species commonly causing ocular infections, including Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. However, its effectiveness varies depending on the specific bacterial strain and its antibiotic susceptibility profile.
| Staphylococcus aureus | Variable; some strains are resistant. |
| Pseudomonas aeruginosa | Generally resistant. |
| Chlamydia trachomatis | Susceptible. |
Remember, always follow your ophthalmologist’s instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment. Improper use may lead to antibiotic resistance.
