Episode 21: Are Z-Packs Magic? with Dr. Anand Swaminathan, MD, MPH and Dr. Nima Majlesi, DO

Learning Points:

- Macrolides have antimicrobial effects by decreasing protein synthesis via inhibition of the 50S large ribosomal subunit.

-Tacrolimus is an example of a non antibiotic macrolide

- Macrolides seem to have their major impact on inflammation via their ability to decrease the production of proinflammatory cytokines, particularly IL-8.

- The use of Azithromycin for viral illnesses have not been proven to be beneficial and in fact lean towards more harm.

- Consider the use of Azithromycin in inpatient and outpatient COPD patients with low risk of QTc prolongation.