Antibiotics · Macrolide
Azithromycin
Dose
500 mg PO/IV OD × 3 d (CAP) or 1 g single dose (chlamydia)
Mechanism
Inhibits 50S ribosomal subunit
Indications
- • Atypical pneumonia
- • STI (chlamydia)
- • Pertussis
- • COPD exacerbation prophylaxis
Contraindications
- • QT prolongation
- • Severe hepatic impairment
Use
Atypical cover; QT prolongation risk.
Monitoring
ECG (QT) with other QT drugs, LFT.
Side effects
- • QT prolongation
- • GI upset
- • Hepatitis
- • Tinnitus / reversible hearing loss
Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.
