Which of the following statements about Azithromycin's mechanism of action is correct?

Study for the 2PD Top 200 Drugs Anti-Infectives and Cardiovascular Agents Test. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Azithromycin's mechanism of action primarily involves targeting the bacterial ribosome, specifically by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit. This binding interferes with protein synthesis, as the ribosome is essential for translating mRNA into proteins. By inhibiting this process, Azithromycin effectively halts bacterial growth and replication, making it an effective antibiotic against various infections.

Understanding the other mechanisms mentioned helps clarify why they do not apply to Azithromycin. Cell wall synthesis inhibition is characteristic of other antibiotic classes, such as penicillins, but not of Azithromycin. Similarly, the inhibition of RNA synthesis is associated with antibiotics like rifampin, while disruption of DNA replication relates more closely to fluoroquinolones. Therefore, the specific binding of Azithromycin to the 50S subunit is the correct and defining feature of its action against bacteria.

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