Antimicrobials
Azithromycin

Azithromycin

Medium
Low (20 to 40%)
$0.24/day (PO) $5.75/day (IV)

Spectrum of Activity

Dosing

General Information

  • Community acquired pneumonia
  • Pertussis
  • Upper respiratory tract infections
  • Chlamidial infections
  • Mycobacterial infections
  • Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) prophylaxis in HIV patients

Monitor QTc in patients with increased risk

Prolongation of QTc interval. Association with increased cardiovascular mortality in observational studies.

  • Other drugs that prolong QTc
  • Increases cyclosporine levels
  • May increase digoxin levels
  • Statins increased risk of rhabdomyolysis

IV Administration

  • Dilute in 250-500 mL of D5W or NS
  • Infuse over 60 minutes

Tablets can be crushed and given via NG route; Liquid also available

OPEN BENEFIT (PO): No prescribing restrictions

Antimicrobial class: Macrolide

Pregnancy category: B

Average serum half life: 68 hours

Biliary penetration: Therapeutic

CSF penetration: Poor

Lung penetration: Therapeutic

Urine penetration: Poor