Azithromycin

WHAT IS IT?

Azithromycin is a antibiotic that belongs to a class called macrolides. It works by inhibiting translation (blocks translocation).

WHEN DO WE USE IT?

Prophylaxis for Mycobacterium avian-intracellulare in AIDS patients (CD4+ count < 50 cells/mm3) AND for Pertussis post exposure.

Infectious pathogens: including Babesia, Neisseria gonorrhoeaeChlamydia trachomatisLegionella pneumophila

Avoid inhibition of Cytochrome P450: most macrolides inhibit these liver enzymes, however azithromycin does not!

WHEN DO WE AVOID USING IT?

In pathogens that are drug resistant: Drug resistance can occur when the methylation of 23S rRNA-binding site prevents binding of drug.

HOW IS IT ADMINISTERED?

Administered either orally or IV infusion

Source
Source
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS/TOXICITY?

Cardiac: arrhythmia caused by prolonged QT interval

GI: motility issues, cholestatic hepatitis

Dermatological: rash secondary to eosinophilia

Other: can increase serum concentrations of theophylline and oral anticoagulants

ANYTHING ELSE TO KEEP IN MIND?

“-thromycin” ending is specific to macrolide antibiotics.

FURTHER READING

DynaMed

UpToDate

Page Updated: 06.10.2016