Hygiene Atlas

Atlas · Plate VIII · Pharmacology and Local Anesthesia · 04

Antibiotics

Penicillins such as amoxicillin kill bacteria by blocking cell wall synthesis, while macrolides block protein synthesis and some inhibit CYP3A4. Tetracyclines bind calcium and stain forming teeth, so they are avoided in pregnancy and in children under 8. Metronidazole targets obligate anaerobes and reacts with alcohol. Clindamycin carries a high C. difficile risk, and Candida overgrowth is a common oral side effect of antibiotics.

High-yield facts · 8

  1. Penicillins are bactericidal and block cell wall synthesis; amoxicillin has a broader spectrum than penicillin VK.S51
  2. Amoxicillin-clavulanate adds a beta-lactamase inhibitor.S51
  3. Macrolides (azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin) block protein synthesis; clarithromycin and erythromycin inhibit CYP3A4 (drug interactions).S51
  4. Tetracyclines bind calcium and stain forming teeth; avoid in pregnancy and in children under 8.S51
  5. Metronidazole targets obligate anaerobes; alcohol causes a disulfiram-like reaction.S51
  6. Clindamycin carries a high risk of C. difficile colitis and is no longer recommended for IE prophylaxis.S5
  7. Broad-spectrum antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives (evidence is limited except for rifampin); advise backup contraception per office policy.S51
  8. Overgrowth of Candida is a common oral side effect of antibiotics.S51

Facts are written in our own words; each tag links to its source. Values marked "sources vary" differ between references, so check the one your program uses.