Azithromycin
Azithromycin is a macrolide-type antibiotic. It stays in the body for a long time, allowing for shorter treatment courses (often 3 to 5 days).
Dosage by Body Weight
Common pediatric dosing is 10 mg/kg once daily for 3 days, or 10 mg/kg on day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg for 4 days. Must be prescribed by a clinician.
- Body Weight
- 5-9 kg
- Dose
- 50-90 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Course duration (3 or 5 days) depends on the infection type.
- Body Weight
- 10-14 kg
- Dose
- 100-140 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Shake suspension well before use.
- Body Weight
- 15-25 kg
- Dose
- 150-250 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Can be taken with or without food.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-9 kg | 50-90 mg | Once daily | Course duration (3 or 5 days) depends on the infection type. |
| 10-14 kg | 100-140 mg | Once daily | Shake suspension well before use. |
| 15-25 kg | 150-250 mg | Once daily | Can be taken with or without food. |
Formulation
Purpose
Antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory infections, skin infections, and ear infections.
Generic Name
Azithromycin MonohydrateBranded Drug Names
Azithromycin is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
CAUTIONAlcohol may worsen infection symptoms or stomach upset while taking azithromycin. Avoid or limit alcohol during treatment.
Pregnancy
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDAzithromycin may be used in pregnancy when prescribed for a confirmed bacterial infection. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions.
Breast Feeding
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDAzithromycin passes into breast milk in small amounts. Monitor the infant for diarrhea or rash and consult your healthcare provider.
Driving
SAFEAzithromycin usually does not affect driving, but dizziness or illness-related weakness can occur. Avoid driving if affected.
Liver
CAUTIONAzithromycin can rarely affect liver function. Use caution and seek medical advice if you have liver disease or develop jaundice.
Kidney
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDAzithromycin is usually safe in mild to moderate kidney impairment, but severe kidney disease requires medical supervision.