How Do Pleuromutilins Work?
What Are Pleuromutilins?
Pleuromutilins are a class of antibacterial substances that work by inhibiting the synthesis of protein in bacteria. Pleuromutilins were discovered in the 1950s mainly for veterinary purposes; however, a new derivative of pleuromutilin was introduced in 2019 for human use. Due to the unique mechanism of this drug, drug resistance is rarely seen with pleuromutilins.
What Are Uses of Pleuromutilins?
Pleuromutilins are mainly effective against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. They are mainly used for:
- Community-acquired bacterial pneumonia
- Impetigo (highly contagious skin infection that causes red sores on the face)
- Skin infections
- Sexually transmitted disease
- Side Effects of Pleuromutilins
Topical application of pleuromutilins may occasionally cause skin irritation.
What Are Side Effects of Pleuromutilins?
Pleuromutilins, when administered orally or intravenously, may show some adverse effects, including:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Insomnia
- Headache
- Hypokalemia (low potassium levels)
- Elevation of liver enzymes
Some rare side effects include:
- Anemia
- Anxiety
- Candidiasis
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Dyspepsia
- Urinary retention (incomplete emptying of the bladder)
- Palpitations
- Atrial fibrillations (irregular, rapid heart rate)
The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor. Also, irrational use of antibiotics can increase your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.