What are the side effects of Sulfas and Macrolides?
Chemistry · Middle School · Thu Feb 04 2021
Answered on
Sulfas (sulfonamides) and macrolides are two different classes of antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections. Both types have their own sets of potential side effects.
Sulfas (sulfonamides) side effects may include: 1. Hypersensitivity reactions (rashes, fever, Stevens-Johnson syndrome) 2. Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) 3. Headache 4. Blood disorders (such as anemia) 5. Hepatotoxicity (liver damage) 6. Crystalluria (crystals in the urine, which can lead to kidney stones) 7. Photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight leading to sunburns)
Macrolides side effects may include: 1. Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain) 2. Altered taste sensation 3. Hepatotoxicity (liver damage) 4. Prolonged QT interval on an EKG which can lead to heart arrhythmias 5. Eosinophilia 6. Hearing loss (usually reversible)
Both sulfonamides and macrolides can interact with other medications, so it's essential for patients to inform their healthcare providers about all medications and supplements they take. It's also important to complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.