Dirithromycin (Dynabec) Drug for Infection: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Dirithromycin
(Dynabec, United States and Canada)

Use:

Dirithromycin or Dynabec is an macrolide antibiotic similar to erythromycin used to treat infections - bronchitis, pneumonia, soft tissue, skin infections. It is as effective as erythromycin.

How It Works:

Dirithromycin or Dynabec interferes with bacterial genetic material making it impossible for the bacteria to reproduce. It has no effect on human cells.

Side Effects:

Dirithromycin or Dynabec has gastro intestinal side effects similar to other erythromycins - nausea, abdominal pain.

Cautions for People:

Dirithromycin or Dynabec's absorption is slightly enhanced by food and thus people can take it with a meal. It is a longer acting antibiotic and thus it can be taken once or twice daily. These two characteristics mean that people find it convenient to take. >People with a sensitivity to erythromycin will also be sensitive to Dirithromycin or Dynabec. People with sensitive stomachs may not be able to tolerate Dirithromycin or Dynabec.

Drug Interactions:

As with all other erythromycins, Dirithromycin or Dynabec will interact with some of the non sedation antihistamines - terfenadine, astemizole - to cause heart beat irregularities.

Further Reading:

Med Letter 1995;37(962):109
Drugs 1994;48:599
J Infect 1004;28:131
J Antimicrob Chemother 1995;36:173

Added to Virtual Drugstore November 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.