Pleuromutilin
Pleuromutilin is a class of antibiotics derived from the fungus Pleurotus mutilus. These antibiotics are used to treat various bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Gram-positive bacteria. Pleuromutilin antibiotics work by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial proteins, which are essential for the bacteria's survival.
History[edit | edit source]
Pleuromutilin was first isolated in 1951 from the fungus Pleurotus mutilus. Since then, several derivatives have been developed for medical use, including retapamulin, lefamulin, and tiamulin.
Medical Uses[edit | edit source]
Pleuromutilin antibiotics are used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. They are particularly effective against Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Enterococcus faecium. Some pleuromutilin antibiotics, such as lefamulin, are also effective against certain Gram-negative bacteria.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
Pleuromutilin antibiotics work by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, inhibiting protein synthesis. This prevents the bacteria from growing and reproducing, effectively killing them.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Like all antibiotics, pleuromutilin can cause side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. In rare cases, severe allergic reactions may occur.
Resistance[edit | edit source]
Bacterial resistance to pleuromutilin antibiotics is a growing concern. Resistance can occur when bacteria mutate or acquire resistance genes, allowing them to survive in the presence of the antibiotic.
See Also[edit | edit source]
Pleuromutilin Resources | ||
---|---|---|
|
|
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD