[Macrolides: indications in 1997].

: A GROWING CLASS OF ANTIBIOTICS: Since the discovery of erythromycin, teh prototype macrolide, this class of antibiotics has grown considerably. Roxithromycin, a semi-synthetic erythromycin derivative, has an improved absorbability, tolerability and stability profile. WIDE INDICATIONS: Current indications for these new compounds for respiratory tract infections are presented and discussed in terms of the most recent consensus conferences. NEW TRENDS: All current indications (expecting the respiratory tract) are discussed in light of current perspectives for this family of antibiotics. Growing interest in new bacterial species such as Mycobacterium avium intracellulare, Helicobacter pylori as well as Chlamydia pneumoniae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae contribute to new trends in antibiotics prescription.