What is "roxithromycin"

n. (context medicine English) A semisynthetic derivative of erythromycin.

Roxithromycin is a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic. It is used to treat respiratory tract, urinary and soft tissue infections. Roxithromycin is derived from erythromycin, containing the same 14-membered lactone ring. However, an N-oxime side chain is attached to the lactone ring. It is also currently undergoing clinical trials for the treatment of male-pattern hair loss.

Roxithromycin is available under several brandnames. Roxithromycin is not available in the United States. Roxithromycin is available in Australia. Roxithromycin has also been tested to possess antimalarial activity.