Other antibiotics
When a beta-lactam won't do
Infections needing a different class — atypical pneumonia, urinary infections, acne, and resistant organisms.
Each interferes with a different bacterial process, usually protein or DNA production.
The 8 other antibiotics in the PTCB Top 200
| Generic | Brand | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Azithromycin | Zithromax | bacterial infections |
| Doxycycline | Vibramycin | bacterial infections, acne |
| Sulfamethoxazole / Trimethoprim | Bactrim / Septra | UTI, MRSA, PCP |
| Nitrofurantoin | Macrobid | uncomplicated UTI |
| Clindamycin | Cleocin | skin, dental, anaerobic infections |
| Ciprofloxacin | Cipro | UTI, GI infections |
| Ofloxacin | Floxin | bacterial infections |
| Mupirocin | Bactroban | impetigo, nasal MRSA |
Tap any generic name for its full drug guide — brand↔generic, side effects, interactions and the exam tip.
What to know for the exam
- check_circleDoxycycline and the fluoroquinolones cause sun sensitivity — sunscreen advice matters.
- check_circleDoxycycline and ciprofloxacin bind to calcium, iron and antacids, so doses are separated.
- check_circleNitrofurantoin is used specifically for urinary tract infections.
- check_circleSulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim is a single combination product.
Fluoroquinolones carry boxed warnings for tendon rupture and nerve damage, and are reserved when other options exist.
The separation interval for doxycycline and ciprofloxacin with dairy, antacids or iron is a frequent counselling point.
Drill other antibiotics the way the PTCE asks them
RxReflex groups the Top 200 drugs into classes like this one, then quizzes you on brand↔generic, class, side effects and interactions. Plus a guided Learn path, pharmacy math and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Frequently asked
What drugs are in the other antibiotics class? add
Azithromycin, Doxycycline, Sulfamethoxazole / Trimethoprim, Nitrofurantoin, Clindamycin, Ciprofloxacin, Ofloxacin, Mupirocin. All are in the PTCB Top 200.
What are other antibiotics used for? add
Infections needing a different class — atypical pneumonia, urinary infections, acne, and resistant organisms.
How do other antibiotics work? add
Each interferes with a different bacterial process, usually protein or DNA production.
Last reviewed August 7, 2026. For education only — not medical advice. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the PTCB.