Azithromycin serves as the active pharmaceutical ingredient in both oral and injectable azithromycin medications. As a member of the macrolide class of antibiotics, it is prescribed for the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections, including upper and lower respiratory tract infections (such as bronchitis and pneumonia), ear, nose, and throat infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections.
Azithromycin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis through binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, thereby halting bacterial growth and reproduction. Its long half-life allows for once-daily dosing and a short treatment duration (typically 3 to 5 days). Compared to other macrolides, azithromycin offers better gastrointestinal tolerability, and its side effects are generally mild.
Hydroxychloroquine is used as the active pharmaceutical ingredient in the production of oral hydroxychloroquine medications. This drug is primarily prescribed for the treatment and prevention of malaria, as well as for the management of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis.
Hydroxychloroquine helps control the symptoms of autoimmune diseases by inhibiting certain inflammatory processes and modulating immune system activity. Additionally, by affecting the metabolism of the malaria parasite, it prevents the replication and progression of the disease. The medication is typically administered orally on a daily basis and is generally well tolerated.
