Azithromycin – A Novel Anti-Microbial Agent in Periodontal Therapy

Abstract

Azithromycin, a macrolide has been used broadly in medicine in the treatment of an extensive array of diseases which includes
middle ear infections, upper respiratory tract infections and also sexually transmitted infections. Its effectivity against most
common periodontopathogens has been studied in detail. This drug could play a triple fold role for the resolution and treatment
of diseases of the supporting structures of the tooth. High concentrated levels of the drug have been reported in neutrophils,
macrophages and even fibroblasts, which are considered as prime players in the pathologic process of periodontal diseases.
With the advent of increasing research regarding periodontal therapy the future could bring further confirmation of these
properties, and azithromycin can become a treasured host-modulator for treating periodontal diseases. Thus, this review will
explore on possible roles of azithromycin for treating periodontal diseases.
Key words: Antimicrobial, azithromycin, macrolide, periodontal disease