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Azithromycin - Medication Information

Product NDC Code 55695-003
Drug Name

Azithromycin

Type Generic
Pharm Class Macrolide Antimicrobial [EPC],
Macrolides [CS]
Active Ingredients
Azithromycin monohydrate 200 mg/5ml
Route ORAL
Dosage Form POWDER, FOR SUSPENSION
RxCUI drug identifier 141963,
308459
Application Number ANDA065246
Labeler Name STATE HEALTH SERVICES, TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF
Packages
Package NDC Code Description
55695-003-00 30 ml in 1 bottle (55695-003-00)
55695-003-01 15 ml in 1 bottle (55695-003-01)
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Overdosage of Azithromycin

Information about signs, symptoms, and laboratory findings of acute ovedosage and the general principles of overdose treatment.
10 OVERDOSAGE Adverse reactions experienced at higher than recommended doses were similar to those seen at normal doses particularly nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. In the event of overdosage, general symptomatic and supportive measures are indicated as required.

Adverse reactions

Information about undesirable effects, reasonably associated with use of the drug, that may occur as part of the pharmacological action of the drug or may be unpredictable in its occurrence. Adverse reactions include those that occur with the drug, and if applicable, with drugs in the same pharmacologically active and chemically related class. There is considerable variation in the listing of adverse reactions. They may be categorized by organ system, by severity of reaction, by frequency, by toxicological mechanism, or by a combination of these.
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS Most common adverse reactions are diarrhea (5 to 14%), nausea (3 to 18%), abdominal pain (3 to 7%), or vomiting (2 to 7%). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact TEVA USA, PHARMACOVIGILANCE at 1-866-832-8537 or [email protected]; or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. In clinical trials, most of the reported side effects were mild to moderate in severity and were reversible upon discontinuation of the drug. Potentially serious adverse reactions of angioedema and cholestatic jaundice were reported. Approximately 0.7% of the patients (adults and pediatric patients) from the 5 day multiple-dose clinical trials discontinued azithromycin therapy because of treatment-related adverse reactions. In adults given 500 mg/day for 3 days, the discontinuation rate due to treatment-related adverse reactions was 0.6%. In clinical trials in pediatric patients given 30 mg/kg, either as a single dose or over 3 days, discontinuation from the trials due to treatment-related adverse reactions was approximately 1%. Most of the adverse reactions leading to discontinuation were related to the gastrointestinal tract, e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain [see Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )]. Adults Multiple-dose regimens: Overall, the most common treatment-related adverse reactions in adult patients receiving multiple-dose regimens of azithromycin were related to the gastrointestinal system with diarrhea/loose stools (4 to 5%), nausea (3%), and abdominal pain (2 to 3%) being the most frequently reported. No other adverse reactions occurred in patients on the multiple-dose regimens of azithromycin with a frequency greater than 1%. Adverse reactions that occurred with a frequency of 1% or less included the following: Cardiovascular: Palpitations, chest pain. Gastrointestinal: Dyspepsia, flatulence, vomiting, melena, and cholestatic jaundice. Genitourinary: Monilia, vaginitis, and nephritis. Nervous System: Dizziness, headache, vertigo, and somnolence. General: Fatigue. Allergic: Rash, pruritus, photosensitivity, and angioedema. Single 1 gram dose regimen: Overall, the most common adverse reactions in patients receiving a single-dose regimen of 1 gram of azithromycin were related to the gastrointestinal system and were more frequently reported than in patients receiving the multiple-dose regimen. Adverse reactions that occurred in patients on the single 1 gram dosing regimen of azithromycin with a frequency of 1% or greater included diarrhea/loose stools (7%), nausea (5%), abdominal pain (5%), vomiting (2%), dyspepsia (1%), and vaginitis (1%). Single 2 gram dose regimen: Overall, the most common adverse reactions in patients receiving a single 2 gram dose of azithromycin were related to the gastrointestinal system. Adverse reactions that occurred in patients in this study with a frequency of 1% or greater included nausea (18%), diarrhea/loose stools (14%), vomiting (7%), abdominal pain (7%), vaginitis (2%), dyspepsia (1%), and dizziness (1%). The majority of these complaints were mild in nature. Pediatric Patients Single and Multiple-dose regimens: The types of adverse reactions in pediatric patients were comparable to those seen in adults, with different incidence rates for the dosage regimens recommended in pediatric patients. Acute Otitis Media: For the recommended total dosage regimen of 30 mg/kg, the most frequent adverse reactions (≥ 1%) attributed to treatment were diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, and rash [see Dosage and Administration ( 2 ) and Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] . The incidence, based on dosing regimen, is described in the table below: Dosage Regimen Diarrhea % Abdominal Pain % Vomiting % Nausea % Rash % 1 day 4.3% 1.4% 4.9% 1% 1% 3 day 2.6% 1.7% 2.3% 0.4% 0.6% 5 day 1.8% 1.2% 1.1% 0.5% 0.4% Community-Acquired Pneumonia: For the recommended dosage regimen of 10 mg/kg on Day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg on Days 2 to 5, the most frequent adverse reactions attributed to treatment were diarrhea/loose stools, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, and rash. The incidence is described in the table below: Dosage Regimen Diarrhea/Loose stools % Abdominal Pain % Vomiting % Nausea % Rash % 5 day 5.8% 1.9% 1.9% 1.9% 1.6% Pharyngitis/tonsillitis: For the recommended dosage regimen of 12 mg/kg on Days 1 to 5, the most frequent adverse reactions attributed to treatment were diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, nausea, and headache. The incidence is described in the table below: Dosage Regimen Diarrhea % Abdominal Pain % Vomiting % Nausea % Rash % Headache % 5 day 5.4% 3.4% 5.6% 1.8% 0.7% 1.1% With any of the treatment regimens, no other adverse reactions occurred in pediatric patients treated with azithromycin with a frequency greater than 1%. Adverse reactions that occurred with a frequency of 1% or less included the following: Cardiovascular: Chest pain. Gastrointestinal: Dyspepsia, constipation, anorexia, enteritis, flatulence, gastritis, jaundice, loose stools, and oral moniliasis. Hematologic and Lymphatic: Anemia and leukopenia. Nervous System: Headache (otitis media dosage), hyperkinesia, dizziness, nervousness, and insomnia. General: Fever, face edema, fatigue, fungal infection, malaise, and pain. Allergic: Rash and allergic reaction. Respiratory: Increased cough, pharyngitis, pleural effusion, and rhinitis. Skin and Appendages: Eczema, fungal dermatitis, pruritus, sweating, urticaria, and vesiculobullous rash. Special Senses: Conjunctivitis. 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of azithromycin. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Adverse reactions reported with azithromycin during the postmarketing period in adult and/or pediatric patients for which a causal relationship may not be established include: Allergic: Arthralgia, edema, urticaria, and angioedema. Cardiovascular: Arrhythmias including ventricular tachycardia and hypotension. There have been reports of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes . Gastrointestinal: Anorexia, constipation, dyspepsia, flatulence, vomiting/diarrhea, pseudomembranous colitis, pancreatitis, oral candidiasis, pyloric stenosis, and reports of tongue discoloration. General: Asthenia, paresthesia, fatigue, malaise, and anaphylaxis. Genitourinary: Interstitial nephritis and acute renal failure and vaginitis. Hematopoietic: Thrombocytopenia. Liver/Biliary: Abnormal liver function, hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice, hepatic necrosis, and hepatic failure [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]. Nervous System: Convulsions, dizziness/vertigo, headache, somnolence, hyperactivity, nervousness, agitation, and syncope. Psychiatric: Aggressive reaction and anxiety. Skin/Appendages: Pruritus, serious skin reactions including erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Special Senses: Hearing disturbances including hearing loss, deafness and/or tinnitus, and reports of taste/smell perversion and/or loss. 6.3 Laboratory Abnormalities Adults: Clinically significant abnormalities (irrespective of drug relationship) occurring during the clinical trials were reported as follows: with an incidence of greater than 1%: decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and blood glucose; elevated serum creatine phosphokinase, potassium, ALT, GGT, AST, BUN, creatinine, blood glucose, platelet count, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and eosinophils; with an incidence of less than 1%: leukopenia, neutropenia, decreased sodium, potassium, platelet count, elevated monocytes, basophils, bicarbonate, serum alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, LDH, and phosphate. The majority of subjects with elevated serum creatinine also had abnormal values at baseline. When follow-up was provided, changes in laboratory tests appeared to be reversible. In multiple-dose clinical trials involving more than 5000 patients, four patients discontinued therapy because of treatment-related liver enzyme abnormalities and one because of a renal function abnormality. Pediatric Patients: One, Three, and Five Day Regimens Laboratory data collected from comparative clinical trials employing two 3 day regimens (30 mg/kg or 60 mg/kg in divided doses over 3 days), or two 5 day regimens (30 mg/kg or 60 mg/kg in divided doses over 5 days) were similar for regimens of azithromycin and all comparators combined, with most clinically significant laboratory abnormalities occurring at incidences of 1 to 5%. Laboratory data for patients receiving 30 mg/kg as a single dose were collected in one single center trial. In that trial, an absolute neutrophil count between 500 to 1500 cells/mm 3 was observed in 10/64 patients receiving 30 mg/kg as a single dose, 9/62 patients receiving 30 mg/kg given over 3 days, and 8/63 comparator patients. No patient had an absolute neutrophil count < 500 cells/mm 3 . In multiple-dose clinical trials involving approximately 4700 pediatric patients, no patients discontinued therapy because of treatment-related laboratory abnormalities.
Dosage RegimenDiarrhea %Abdominal Pain %Vomiting %Nausea %Rash %
1 day 4.3% 1.4% 4.9% 1% 1%
3 day 2.6% 1.7% 2.3% 0.4% 0.6%
5 day 1.8% 1.2% 1.1% 0.5% 0.4%
Dosage Regimen Diarrhea/Loose stools %Abdominal Pain %Vomiting %Nausea % Rash %
5 day 5.8%1.9%1.9%1.9% 1.6%
Dosage Regimen Diarrhea %Abdominal Pain %Vomiting %Nausea %Rash %Headache %
5 day 5.4%3.4%5.6%1.8%0.7%1.1%

Azithromycin Drug Interactions

Information about and practical guidance on preventing clinically significant drug/drug and drug/food interactions that may occur in people taking the drug.
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Nelfinavir: Close monitoring for known adverse reactions of azithromycin, such as liver enzyme abnormalities and hearing impairment, is warranted ( 7.1 ). Warfarin: Use with azithromycin may increase coagulation times; monitor prothrombin time ( 7.2 ). 7.1 Nelfinavir Coadministration of nelfinavir at steady-state with a single oral dose of azithromycin resulted in increased azithromycin serum concentrations. Although a dose adjustment of azithromycin is not recommended when administered in combination with nelfinavir, close monitoring for known adverse reactions of azithromycin, such as liver enzyme abnormalities and hearing impairment, is warranted [see Adverse Reactions ( 6 )]. 7.2 Warfarin Spontaneous postmarketing reports suggest that concomitant administration of azithromycin may potentiate the effects of oral anticoagulants such as warfarin, although the prothrombin time was not affected in the dedicated drug interaction study with azithromycin and warfarin. Prothrombin times should be carefully monitored while patients are receiving azithromycin and oral anticoagulants concomitantly. 7.3 Potential Drug-Drug Interactions with Macrolides Interactions with digoxin or phenytoin have not been reported in clinical trials with azithromycin; however, no specific drug interaction studies have been performed to evaluate potential drug-drug interactions. However, drug interactions have been observed with other macrolide products. Until further data are developed regarding drug interactions when digoxin or phenytoin are used concomitantly with azithromycin careful monitoring of patients is advised.

Clinical pharmacology

Information about the clinical pharmacology and actions of the drug in humans.
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action Azithromycin is a macrolide antibacterial drug [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )]. 12.2 Pharmacodynamics Based on animal models of infection, the antibacterial activity of azithromycin appears to correlate with the ratio of area under the concentration-time curve to minimum inhibitory concentration (AUC/MIC) for certain pathogens ( S. pneumoniae and S. aureus ). The principal pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic parameter best associated with clinical and microbiological cure has not been elucidated in clinical trials with azithromycin. Cardiac Electrophysiology QTc interval prolongation was studied in a randomized, placebo-controlled parallel trial in 116 healthy subjects who received either chloroquine (1000 mg) alone or in combination with oral azithromycin (500 mg, 1000 mg, and 1500 mg once daily). Coadministration of azithromycin increased the QTc interval in a dose-and concentration-dependent manner. In comparison to chloroquine alone, the maximum mean (95% upper confidence bound) increases in QTcF were 5 (10) ms, 7 (12) ms and 9 (14) ms with the coadministration of 500 mg, 1000 mg and 1500 mg azithromycin, respectively. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics Following oral administration of a single 500 mg dose (two 250 mg tablets) to 36 fasted healthy male volunteers, the mean (SD) pharmacokinetic parameters were AUC0-72 = 4.3 (1.2) mcg·h/mL; Cmax = 0.5 (0.2) mcg/mL; Tmax = 2.2 (0.9) hours. Two azithromycin 250 mg tablets are bioequivalent to a single 500 mg tablet. In a two-way crossover study, 12 adult healthy volunteers (6 males, 6 females) received 1500 mg of azithromycin administered in single daily doses over either 5 days (two 250 mg tablets on day 1, followed by one 250 mg tablet on days 2 to 5) or 3 days (500 mg per day for days 1 to 3). Due to limited serum samples on day 2 (3 day regimen) and days 2 to 4 (5 day regimen), the serum concentration-time profile of each subject was fit to a 3 compartment model and the AUC 0-∞ for the fitted concentration profile was comparable between the 5 day and 3 day regimens. 3 Day Regimen 5 Day Regimen Pharmacokinetic Parameter [mean (SD)] Day 1 Day 3 Day 1 Day 5 C max (serum, mcg/mL) 0.44 (0.22) 0.54 (0.25) 0.43 (0.20) 0.24 (0.06) Serum AUC 0-∞ (mcg·hr/mL) 17.4 (6.2)* 14.9 (3.1)* Serum T 1/2 71.8 hr 68.9 hr *Total AUC for the entire 3-day and 5-day regimens. Absorption The absolute bioavailability of azithromycin 250 mg capsules is 38%. In a two-way crossover study in which 12 healthy subjects received a single 500 mg dose of azithromycin (two 250 mg tablets) with or without a high fat meal, food was shown to increase Cmax by 23% but had no effect on AUC. When azithromycin oral suspension was administered with food to 28 adult healthy male subjects, Cmax increased by 56% and AUC was unchanged. Distribution The serum protein binding of azithromycin is variable in the concentration range approximating human exposure, decreasing from 51% at 0.02 mcg/mL to 7% at 2 mcg/mL. The antibacterial activity of azithromycin is pH related and appears to be reduced with decreasing pH, However, the extensive distribution of drug to tissues may be relevant to clinical activity. Azithromycin has been shown to penetrate into human tissues, including skin, lung, tonsil, and cervix. Extensive tissue distribution was confirmed by examination of additional tissues and fluids (bone, ejaculum, prostate, ovary, uterus, salpinx, stomach, liver, and gallbladder). As there are no data from adequate and well-controlled studies of azithromycin treatment of infections in these additional body sites, the clinical significance of these tissue concentration data is unknown. Following a regimen of 500 mg on the first day and 250 mg daily for 4 days, very low concentrations were noted in cerebrospinal fluid (less than 0.01 mcg/mL) in the presence of noninflamed meninges. Metabolism In vitro and in vivo studies to assess the metabolism of azithromycin have not been performed. Elimination Plasma concentrations of azithromycin following single 500 mg oral and IV doses declined in a polyphasic pattern resulting in a mean apparent plasma clearance of 630 mL/min and terminal elimination half-life of 68 hours. The prolonged terminal half-life is thought to be due to extensive uptake and subsequent release of drug from tissues. Biliary excretion of azithromycin, predominantly as unchanged drug, is a major route of elimination. Over the course of a week, approximately 6% of the administered dose appears as unchanged drug in urine. Specific Populations Renal Insufficiency Azithromycin pharmacokinetics was investigated in 42 adults (21 to 85 years of age) with varying degrees of renal impairment. Following the oral administration of a single 1 g dose of azithromycin (4 x 250 mg capsules), mean Cmax and AUC0-120 increased by 5.1% and 4.2%, respectively, in subjects with mild to moderate renal impairment (GFR 10 to 80 mL/min) compared to subjects with normal renal function (GFR > 80 mL/min). The mean Cmax and AUC0-120 increased 61% and 35%, respectively, in subjects with severe renal impairment (GFR < 10 mL/min) compared to subjects with normal renal function (GFR > 80 mL/min). Hepatic Insufficiency The pharmacokinetics of azithromycin in subjects with hepatic impairment has not been established. Gender There are no significant differences in the disposition of azithromycin between male and female subjects. No dosage adjustment is recommended based on gender. Geriatric Patients Pharmacokinetic parameters in older volunteers (65 to 85 years old) were similar to those in young adults (18 to 40 years old) for the 5 day therapeutic regimen. Dosage adjustment does not appear to be necessary for older patients with normal renal and hepatic function receiving treatment with this dosage regimen [ see Geriatric Use ( 8.5 )] . Pediatric Patients In two clinical studies, azithromycin for oral suspension was dosed at 10 mg/kg on day 1, followed by 5 mg/kg on days 2 through 5 in two groups of pediatric patients (aged 1 to 5 years and 5 to 15 years, respectively). The mean pharmacokinetic parameters on day 5 were Cmax = 0.216 mcg/mL, Tmax = 1.9 hours, and AUC0-24 = 1.822 mcg·hr/mL for the 1 to 5 year-old group and were Cmax = 0.383 mcg/mL, Tmax = 2.4 hours, and AUC0-24 = 3.109 mcg·hr/mL for the 5 to 15 year-old group. In another study, 33 pediatric patients received doses of 12 mg/kg/day (maximum daily dose 500 mg) for 5 days, of whom 31 patients were evaluated for azithromycin pharmacokinetics following a low fat breakfast. In this study, azithromycin concentrations were determined over a 24 hour period following the last daily dose. Patients weighing above 41.7 kg received the maximum adult daily dose of 500 mg. Seventeen patients (weighing 41.7 kg or less) received a total dose of 60 mg/kg. The following table shows pharmacokinetic data in the subset of pediatric patients who received a total dose of 60 mg/kg. Pharmacokinetic Parameter [mean (SD)] 5 Day Regimen (12 mg/kg for 5 days) N 17 C max (mcg/mL) 0.5 (0.4) T max (hr) 2.2 (0.8) AUC 0-24 (mcg⋅hr/mL) 3.9 (1.9) Single dose pharmacokinetics of azithromycin in pediatric patients given doses of 30 mg/kg have not been studied [see Dosage and Administration ( 2 )] . Drug interaction studies were performed with azithromycin and other drugs likely to be coadministered. The effects of coadministration of azithromycin on the pharmacokinetics of other drugs are shown in Table 1 and the effects of other drugs on the pharmacokinetics of azithromycin are shown in Table 2 . Coadministration of azithromycin at therapeutic doses had a modest effect on the pharmacokinetics of the drugs listed in Table 1 . No dosage adjustment of drugs listed in Table 1 is recommended when coadministered with azithromycin. Coadministration of azithromycin with efavirenz or fluconazole had a modest effect on the pharmacokinetics of azithromycin. Nelfinavir significantly increased the Cmax and AUC of azithromycin. No dosage adjustment of azithromycin is recommended when administered with drugs listed in Table 2 [see Drug Interactions ( 7.3 )] . Table 1. Drug Interactions: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Coadministered Drugs in the Presence of Azithromycin Coadministered Drug Dose of Coadministered Drug Dose of Azithromycin n Ratio (with/without azithromycin) of Coadministered Drug Pharmacokinetic Parameters (90% CI); No Effect = 1 Mean C max Mean AUC Atorvastatin 10 mg/day for 8 days 500 mg/day orally on days 6 to 8 12 0.83 (0.63 to 1.08) 1.01 (0.81 to 1.25) Carbamazepine 200 mg/day for 2 days, then 200 mg twice a day for 18 days 500 mg/day orally for days 16 to 18 7 0.97 (0.88 to 1.06) 0.96 (0.88 to 1.06) Cetirizine 20 mg/day for 11 days 500 mg orally on day 7, then 250 mg/day on days 8 to 11 14 1.03 (0.93 to 1.14) 1.02 (0.92 to 1.13) Didanosine 200 mg orally twice a day for 21 days 1200 mg/day orally on days 8 to 21 6 1.44 (0.85 to 2.43) 1.14 (0.83 to 1.57) Efavirenz 400 mg/day for 7 days 600 mg orally on day 7 14 1.04* 0.95* Fluconazole 200 mg orally single dose 1200 mg orally single dose 18 1.04 (0.98 to 1.11) 1.01 (0.97 to 1.05) Indinavir 800 mg three times a day for 5 days 1200 mg orally on day 5 18 0.96 (0.86 to 1.08) 0.90 (0.81 to 1) Midazolam 15 mg orally on day 3 500 mg/day orally for 3 days 12 1.27 (0.89 to 1.81) 1.26 (1.01 to 1.56) Nelfinavir 750 mg three times a day for 11 days 1200 mg orally on day 9 14 0.90 (0.81 to 1.01) 0.85 (0.78 to 0.93) Sildenafil 100 mg on days 1 and 4 500 mg/day orally for 3 days 12 1.16 (0.86 to 1.57) 0.92 (0.75 to 1.12) Theophylline 4 mg/kg IV on days 1, 11, 25 500 mg orally on day 7, 250 mg/day on days 8 to 11 10 1.19 (1.02 to 1.40) 1.02 (0.86 to 1.22) Theophylline 300 mg orally twice a day for 15 days 500 mg orally on day 6, then 250 mg/day on days 7 to 10 8 1.09 (0.92 to 1.29) 1.08 (0.89 to 1.31) Triazolam 0.125 mg on day 2 500 mg orally on day 1, then 250 mg/day on day 2 12 1.06* 1.02* Trimethoprim/ Sulfamethoxazole 160 mg/800 mg/day orally for 7 days 1200 mg orally on day 7 12 0.85 (0.75 to 0.97)/ 0.90 (0.78 to 1.03) 0.87 (0.80 to 0.95)/ 0.96 (0.88 to 1.03) Zidovudine 500 mg/day orally for 21 days 600 mg/day orally for 14 days 5 1.12 (0.42 to 3.02) 0.94 (0.52 to 1.70) Zidovudine 500 mg/day orally for 21 days 1200 mg/day orally for 14 days 4 1.31 (0.43 to 3.97) 1.30 (0.69 to 2.43) * -90% Confidence interval not reported Table 2. Drug Interactions: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Azithromycin in the Presence of Coadministered Drugs [see Drug Interactions ( 7 )]. Coadministered Drug Dose of Coadministered Drug Dose of Azithromycin n Ratio (with/without coadministered drug) of Azithromycin Pharmacokinetic Parameters (90% CI); No Effect = 1 Mean C max Mean AUC Efavirenz 400 mg/day for 7 days 600 mg orally on day 7 14 1.22 (1.04 to 1.42) 0.92* Fluconazole 200 mg orally single dose 1200 mg orally single dose 18 0.82 (0.66 to 1.02) 1.07 (0.94 to 1.22) Nelfinavir 750 mg three times a day for 11 days 1200 mg orally on day 9 14 2.36 (1.77 to 3.15) 2.12 (1.80 to 2.50) * -90% Confidence interval not reported 12.4 Microbiology Mechanism of Action Azithromycin acts by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms and interferes with bacterial protein synthesis. Nucleic acid synthesis is not affected. Cross Resistance Azithromycin demonstrates cross resistance with erythromycin resistant Gram positive isolates. Azithromycin has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following bacteria, both in vitro and in clinical [see Indications and Usage ( 1 )] . Gram-Positive Bacteria Staphylococcus aureus Streptococcus agalactiae Streptococcus pneumoniae Streptococcus pyogenes Gram-Negative Bacteria Haemophilus ducreyi Haemophilus influenzae Moraxella catarrhalis Neisseria gonorrhoeae Other Bacteria Chlamydophila pneumoniae Chlamydia trachomatis Mycoplasma pneumoniae The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown. Azithromycin exhibits in vitro minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 4 mcg/ml or less against most (≥ 90%) isolates of the following bacteria; however, the safety and effectiveness of azithromycin in treating clinical infections due to these bacteria have not been established in adequate and well-controlled trials. Gram-Positive Bacteria Beta-hemolytic streptococci (Groups C, F, G) Viridans group streptococci Gram-Negative Bacteria Bordetella pertussis Legionella pneumophila Anaerobic Bacteria Prevotella bivia Peptostreptococcus species Other Bacteria Ureaplasma urealyticum Susceptibility Testing Methods When available, the clinical microbiology laboratory should provide the results of in vitro susceptibility test results for antibacterial drugs used in resident hospitals to the physician as periodic reports that describe the susceptibility profile of nosocomial and community-acquired pathogens. These reports should aid the physician in selecting an antibacterial drug product for treatment. Dilution Techniques Quantitative methods are used to determine minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs). These MICs provide estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antibacterial compounds. The MICs should be determined using a standardized test method 1,2,3 (broth or agar). The MIC values should be interpreted according to criteria provided in Table 1 . Diffusion Techniques Quantitative methods that require measurement of zone diameters can also provide reproducible estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antibacterial compounds. The zone size provides an estimate of the susceptibility of bacteria to antibacterial compounds. The zone size should be determined using a standardized method 2,3 . This procedure uses paper disk impregnated with 15 mcg azithromycin to test the susceptibility of bacteria to azithromycin. The disk diffusion interpretive criteria are provided in Table 1 . Table 1: Susceptibility Test Interpretive Criteria for Azithromycin a aClarithromycin is used for susceptibility testing due to its better solubility Pathogen Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (mcg/mL) Disk Diffusion (zone diameter in mm) S I R S I R Haemophilus influenzae b bInsufficient information is available to determine Intermediate or Resistant interpretive criteria ≤ 4 - - ≥ 12 Staphylococcus aureus ≤ 2 4 ≥ 8 ≥ 18 14 to 17 ≤ 13 Streptococci including S. pneumoniae ≤ 0.5 1 ≥ 2 ≥ 18 14 to 17 ≤ 13 The ability to correlate MIC values and plasma drug levels is difficult as azithromycin concentrates in macrophages and tissues. [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12 )] A report of “Susceptible” indicates that the pathogen is likely to inhibit growth of the pathogen if the antibacterial compound reaches the concentration at the infection site necessary to inhibit growth of the pathogen. A report of “Intermediate” indicates that the result should be considered equivocal, and if the microorganism is not fully susceptible to alternative clinically feasible drugs, the test should be repeated. This category implies possible clinical applicability in body sites where the drug is physiologically concentrated. This category also provides a buffer zone that prevents small uncontrolled technical factors from causing major discrepancies in interpretation. A report of “Resistant” indicates that the antibacterial is not likely to inhibit growth of the pathogen if the antibacterial compound reaches the concentrations usually achievable at the infection site; other therapy should be selected. Quality Control Standardized susceptibility test procedures require the use of laboratory controls to monitor and ensure the accuracy and precision of supplies and reagents used in the assay, and the techniques of the individuals performing the test 1,2,3 . Standard azithromycin powder should provide the following range of MIC values provided in Table 2 . For the diffusion technique using the 15 mcg azithromycin disk the criteria provided in Table 2 should be achieved. Table 2. Acceptable Quality Control Ranges for Susceptibility Testing Quality Control Organism Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (mcg/mL) Disk Diffusion (zone diameters in mm) Staphylococcus aureus ATCC* 25923 Not Applicable 21 to 26 Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213 0.5 to 2 Not Applicable Haemophilus influenza ATCC 49247 1 to 4 13 to 21 Streptococcus pneumoniae ATCC 49619 0.06 to 0.25 19 to 25 *ATCC = American Type Culture Collection
3 Day Regimen5 Day Regimen
Pharmacokinetic Parameter [mean (SD)]Day 1Day 3Day 1Day 5
C max (serum, mcg/mL) 0.44 (0.22)0.54 (0.25)0.43 (0.20)0.24 (0.06)
Serum AUC 0-∞ (mcg·hr/mL) 17.4 (6.2)*14.9 (3.1)*
Serum T 1/271.8 hr68.9 hr
Pharmacokinetic Parameter [mean (SD)] 5 Day Regimen (12 mg/kg for 5 days)
N 17
C max (mcg/mL) 0.5 (0.4)
T max (hr) 2.2 (0.8)
AUC 0-24(mcg⋅hr/mL) 3.9 (1.9)
Table 1. Drug Interactions: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Coadministered Drugs in the Presence of Azithromycin
Coadministered DrugDose of Coadministered DrugDose of AzithromycinnRatio (with/without azithromycin) of Coadministered Drug Pharmacokinetic Parameters (90% CI); No Effect = 1
Mean C maxMean AUC
Atorvastatin10 mg/day for 8 days500 mg/day orally on days 6 to 8120.83(0.63 to 1.08)1.01(0.81 to 1.25)
Carbamazepine200 mg/day for 2 days, then 200 mg twice a day for 18 days500 mg/day orally for days 16 to 1870.97(0.88 to 1.06)0.96(0.88 to 1.06)
Cetirizine20 mg/day for 11 days500 mg orally on day 7, then 250 mg/day on days 8 to 11141.03(0.93 to 1.14)1.02(0.92 to 1.13)
Didanosine200 mg orally twice a day for 21 days1200 mg/day orally on days 8 to 2161.44(0.85 to 2.43)1.14(0.83 to 1.57)
Efavirenz400 mg/day for 7 days600 mg orally on day 7141.04*0.95*
Fluconazole200 mg orally single dose1200 mg orally single dose181.04(0.98 to 1.11)1.01(0.97 to 1.05)
Indinavir800 mg three times a day for 5 days1200 mg orally on day 5180.96(0.86 to 1.08)0.90(0.81 to 1)
Midazolam15 mg orally on day 3500 mg/day orally for 3 days121.27(0.89 to 1.81)1.26(1.01 to 1.56)
Nelfinavir750 mg three times a day for 11 days1200 mg orally on day 9140.90(0.81 to 1.01)0.85(0.78 to 0.93)
Sildenafil100 mg on days 1 and 4500 mg/day orally for 3 days121.16(0.86 to 1.57)0.92(0.75 to 1.12)
Theophylline4 mg/kg IV on days 1, 11, 25500 mg orally on day 7, 250 mg/day on days 8 to 11101.19(1.02 to 1.40)1.02(0.86 to 1.22)
Theophylline300 mg orally twice a day for 15 days500 mg orally on day 6, then 250 mg/day on days 7 to 1081.09(0.92 to 1.29)1.08(0.89 to 1.31)
Triazolam0.125 mg on day 2500 mg orally on day 1, then 250 mg/day on day 2121.06*1.02*
Trimethoprim/ Sulfamethoxazole160 mg/800 mg/day orally for 7 days1200 mg orally on day 7120.85(0.75 to 0.97)/ 0.90 (0.78 to 1.03)0.87(0.80 to 0.95)/ 0.96(0.88 to 1.03)
Zidovudine500 mg/day orally for 21 days600 mg/day orally for 14 days51.12(0.42 to 3.02)0.94(0.52 to 1.70)
Zidovudine500 mg/day orally for 21 days1200 mg/day orally for 14 days41.31(0.43 to 3.97)1.30(0.69 to 2.43)
Table 2. Drug Interactions: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Azithromycin in the Presence of Coadministered Drugs [see Drug Interactions ( 7)].
Coadministered DrugDose of Coadministered DrugDose of AzithromycinnRatio (with/without coadministered drug) of Azithromycin Pharmacokinetic Parameters (90% CI); No Effect = 1
Mean C maxMean AUC
Efavirenz400 mg/day for 7 days600 mg orally on day 7141.22(1.04 to 1.42)0.92*
Fluconazole200 mg orally single dose1200 mg orally single dose180.82(0.66 to 1.02)1.07(0.94 to 1.22)
Nelfinavir750 mg three times a day for 11 days1200 mg orally on day 9142.36(1.77 to 3.15)2.12(1.80 to 2.50)
Table 1: Susceptibility Test Interpretive Criteria for Azithromycin aaClarithromycin is used for susceptibility testing due to its better solubility
PathogenMinimum Inhibitory Concentrations (mcg/mL)Disk Diffusion (zone diameter in mm)
SIRSIR
Haemophilus influenzaebbInsufficient information is available to determine Intermediate or Resistant interpretive criteria ≤ 4 --≥ 12
Staphylococcus aureus≤ 2 4 ≥ 8 ≥ 18 14 to 17 ≤ 13
Streptococci including S. pneumoniae≤ 0.5 1≥ 2 ≥ 18 14 to 17 ≤ 13
Table 2. Acceptable Quality Control Ranges for Susceptibility Testing
Quality Control OrganismMinimum Inhibitory Concentrations(mcg/mL)Disk Diffusion (zone diameters in mm)
Staphylococcus aureusATCC* 25923Not Applicable21 to 26
Staphylococcus aureusATCC 292130.5 to 2Not Applicable
Haemophilus influenzaATCC 492471 to 413 to 21
Streptococcus pneumoniae ATCC 496190.06 to 0.2519 to 25

Mechanism of action

Information about the established mechanism(s) of the drugÕs action in humans at various levels (for example receptor, membrane, tissue, organ, whole body). If the mechanism of action is not known, this field contains a statement about the lack of information.
12.1 Mechanism of Action Azithromycin is a macrolide antibacterial drug [see Microbiology ( 12.4 )].

Pharmacodynamics

Information about any biochemical or physiologic pharmacologic effects of the drug or active metabolites related to the drugÕs clinical effect in preventing, diagnosing, mitigating, curing, or treating disease, or those related to adverse effects or toxicity.
12.2 Pharmacodynamics Based on animal models of infection, the antibacterial activity of azithromycin appears to correlate with the ratio of area under the concentration-time curve to minimum inhibitory concentration (AUC/MIC) for certain pathogens ( S. pneumoniae and S. aureus ). The principal pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic parameter best associated with clinical and microbiological cure has not been elucidated in clinical trials with azithromycin. Cardiac Electrophysiology QTc interval prolongation was studied in a randomized, placebo-controlled parallel trial in 116 healthy subjects who received either chloroquine (1000 mg) alone or in combination with oral azithromycin (500 mg, 1000 mg, and 1500 mg once daily). Coadministration of azithromycin increased the QTc interval in a dose-and concentration-dependent manner. In comparison to chloroquine alone, the maximum mean (95% upper confidence bound) increases in QTcF were 5 (10) ms, 7 (12) ms and 9 (14) ms with the coadministration of 500 mg, 1000 mg and 1500 mg azithromycin, respectively.

Pharmacokinetics

Information about the clinically significant pharmacokinetics of a drug or active metabolites, for instance pertinent absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion parameters.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics Following oral administration of a single 500 mg dose (two 250 mg tablets) to 36 fasted healthy male volunteers, the mean (SD) pharmacokinetic parameters were AUC0-72 = 4.3 (1.2) mcg·h/mL; Cmax = 0.5 (0.2) mcg/mL; Tmax = 2.2 (0.9) hours. Two azithromycin 250 mg tablets are bioequivalent to a single 500 mg tablet. In a two-way crossover study, 12 adult healthy volunteers (6 males, 6 females) received 1500 mg of azithromycin administered in single daily doses over either 5 days (two 250 mg tablets on day 1, followed by one 250 mg tablet on days 2 to 5) or 3 days (500 mg per day for days 1 to 3). Due to limited serum samples on day 2 (3 day regimen) and days 2 to 4 (5 day regimen), the serum concentration-time profile of each subject was fit to a 3 compartment model and the AUC 0-∞ for the fitted concentration profile was comparable between the 5 day and 3 day regimens. 3 Day Regimen 5 Day Regimen Pharmacokinetic Parameter [mean (SD)] Day 1 Day 3 Day 1 Day 5 C max (serum, mcg/mL) 0.44 (0.22) 0.54 (0.25) 0.43 (0.20) 0.24 (0.06) Serum AUC 0-∞ (mcg·hr/mL) 17.4 (6.2)* 14.9 (3.1)* Serum T 1/2 71.8 hr 68.9 hr *Total AUC for the entire 3-day and 5-day regimens. Absorption The absolute bioavailability of azithromycin 250 mg capsules is 38%. In a two-way crossover study in which 12 healthy subjects received a single 500 mg dose of azithromycin (two 250 mg tablets) with or without a high fat meal, food was shown to increase Cmax by 23% but had no effect on AUC. When azithromycin oral suspension was administered with food to 28 adult healthy male subjects, Cmax increased by 56% and AUC was unchanged. Distribution The serum protein binding of azithromycin is variable in the concentration range approximating human exposure, decreasing from 51% at 0.02 mcg/mL to 7% at 2 mcg/mL. The antibacterial activity of azithromycin is pH related and appears to be reduced with decreasing pH, However, the extensive distribution of drug to tissues may be relevant to clinical activity. Azithromycin has been shown to penetrate into human tissues, including skin, lung, tonsil, and cervix. Extensive tissue distribution was confirmed by examination of additional tissues and fluids (bone, ejaculum, prostate, ovary, uterus, salpinx, stomach, liver, and gallbladder). As there are no data from adequate and well-controlled studies of azithromycin treatment of infections in these additional body sites, the clinical significance of these tissue concentration data is unknown. Following a regimen of 500 mg on the first day and 250 mg daily for 4 days, very low concentrations were noted in cerebrospinal fluid (less than 0.01 mcg/mL) in the presence of noninflamed meninges. Metabolism In vitro and in vivo studies to assess the metabolism of azithromycin have not been performed. Elimination Plasma concentrations of azithromycin following single 500 mg oral and IV doses declined in a polyphasic pattern resulting in a mean apparent plasma clearance of 630 mL/min and terminal elimination half-life of 68 hours. The prolonged terminal half-life is thought to be due to extensive uptake and subsequent release of drug from tissues. Biliary excretion of azithromycin, predominantly as unchanged drug, is a major route of elimination. Over the course of a week, approximately 6% of the administered dose appears as unchanged drug in urine. Specific Populations Renal Insufficiency Azithromycin pharmacokinetics was investigated in 42 adults (21 to 85 years of age) with varying degrees of renal impairment. Following the oral administration of a single 1 g dose of azithromycin (4 x 250 mg capsules), mean Cmax and AUC0-120 increased by 5.1% and 4.2%, respectively, in subjects with mild to moderate renal impairment (GFR 10 to 80 mL/min) compared to subjects with normal renal function (GFR > 80 mL/min). The mean Cmax and AUC0-120 increased 61% and 35%, respectively, in subjects with severe renal impairment (GFR < 10 mL/min) compared to subjects with normal renal function (GFR > 80 mL/min). Hepatic Insufficiency The pharmacokinetics of azithromycin in subjects with hepatic impairment has not been established. Gender There are no significant differences in the disposition of azithromycin between male and female subjects. No dosage adjustment is recommended based on gender. Geriatric Patients Pharmacokinetic parameters in older volunteers (65 to 85 years old) were similar to those in young adults (18 to 40 years old) for the 5 day therapeutic regimen. Dosage adjustment does not appear to be necessary for older patients with normal renal and hepatic function receiving treatment with this dosage regimen [ see Geriatric Use ( 8.5 )] . Pediatric Patients In two clinical studies, azithromycin for oral suspension was dosed at 10 mg/kg on day 1, followed by 5 mg/kg on days 2 through 5 in two groups of pediatric patients (aged 1 to 5 years and 5 to 15 years, respectively). The mean pharmacokinetic parameters on day 5 were Cmax = 0.216 mcg/mL, Tmax = 1.9 hours, and AUC0-24 = 1.822 mcg·hr/mL for the 1 to 5 year-old group and were Cmax = 0.383 mcg/mL, Tmax = 2.4 hours, and AUC0-24 = 3.109 mcg·hr/mL for the 5 to 15 year-old group. In another study, 33 pediatric patients received doses of 12 mg/kg/day (maximum daily dose 500 mg) for 5 days, of whom 31 patients were evaluated for azithromycin pharmacokinetics following a low fat breakfast. In this study, azithromycin concentrations were determined over a 24 hour period following the last daily dose. Patients weighing above 41.7 kg received the maximum adult daily dose of 500 mg. Seventeen patients (weighing 41.7 kg or less) received a total dose of 60 mg/kg. The following table shows pharmacokinetic data in the subset of pediatric patients who received a total dose of 60 mg/kg. Pharmacokinetic Parameter [mean (SD)] 5 Day Regimen (12 mg/kg for 5 days) N 17 C max (mcg/mL) 0.5 (0.4) T max (hr) 2.2 (0.8) AUC 0-24 (mcg⋅hr/mL) 3.9 (1.9) Single dose pharmacokinetics of azithromycin in pediatric patients given doses of 30 mg/kg have not been studied [see Dosage and Administration ( 2 )] . Drug interaction studies were performed with azithromycin and other drugs likely to be coadministered. The effects of coadministration of azithromycin on the pharmacokinetics of other drugs are shown in Table 1 and the effects of other drugs on the pharmacokinetics of azithromycin are shown in Table 2 . Coadministration of azithromycin at therapeutic doses had a modest effect on the pharmacokinetics of the drugs listed in Table 1 . No dosage adjustment of drugs listed in Table 1 is recommended when coadministered with azithromycin. Coadministration of azithromycin with efavirenz or fluconazole had a modest effect on the pharmacokinetics of azithromycin. Nelfinavir significantly increased the Cmax and AUC of azithromycin. No dosage adjustment of azithromycin is recommended when administered with drugs listed in Table 2 [see Drug Interactions ( 7.3 )] . Table 1. Drug Interactions: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Coadministered Drugs in the Presence of Azithromycin Coadministered Drug Dose of Coadministered Drug Dose of Azithromycin n Ratio (with/without azithromycin) of Coadministered Drug Pharmacokinetic Parameters (90% CI); No Effect = 1 Mean C max Mean AUC Atorvastatin 10 mg/day for 8 days 500 mg/day orally on days 6 to 8 12 0.83 (0.63 to 1.08) 1.01 (0.81 to 1.25) Carbamazepine 200 mg/day for 2 days, then 200 mg twice a day for 18 days 500 mg/day orally for days 16 to 18 7 0.97 (0.88 to 1.06) 0.96 (0.88 to 1.06) Cetirizine 20 mg/day for 11 days 500 mg orally on day 7, then 250 mg/day on days 8 to 11 14 1.03 (0.93 to 1.14) 1.02 (0.92 to 1.13) Didanosine 200 mg orally twice a day for 21 days 1200 mg/day orally on days 8 to 21 6 1.44 (0.85 to 2.43) 1.14 (0.83 to 1.57) Efavirenz 400 mg/day for 7 days 600 mg orally on day 7 14 1.04* 0.95* Fluconazole 200 mg orally single dose 1200 mg orally single dose 18 1.04 (0.98 to 1.11) 1.01 (0.97 to 1.05) Indinavir 800 mg three times a day for 5 days 1200 mg orally on day 5 18 0.96 (0.86 to 1.08) 0.90 (0.81 to 1) Midazolam 15 mg orally on day 3 500 mg/day orally for 3 days 12 1.27 (0.89 to 1.81) 1.26 (1.01 to 1.56) Nelfinavir 750 mg three times a day for 11 days 1200 mg orally on day 9 14 0.90 (0.81 to 1.01) 0.85 (0.78 to 0.93) Sildenafil 100 mg on days 1 and 4 500 mg/day orally for 3 days 12 1.16 (0.86 to 1.57) 0.92 (0.75 to 1.12) Theophylline 4 mg/kg IV on days 1, 11, 25 500 mg orally on day 7, 250 mg/day on days 8 to 11 10 1.19 (1.02 to 1.40) 1.02 (0.86 to 1.22) Theophylline 300 mg orally twice a day for 15 days 500 mg orally on day 6, then 250 mg/day on days 7 to 10 8 1.09 (0.92 to 1.29) 1.08 (0.89 to 1.31) Triazolam 0.125 mg on day 2 500 mg orally on day 1, then 250 mg/day on day 2 12 1.06* 1.02* Trimethoprim/ Sulfamethoxazole 160 mg/800 mg/day orally for 7 days 1200 mg orally on day 7 12 0.85 (0.75 to 0.97)/ 0.90 (0.78 to 1.03) 0.87 (0.80 to 0.95)/ 0.96 (0.88 to 1.03) Zidovudine 500 mg/day orally for 21 days 600 mg/day orally for 14 days 5 1.12 (0.42 to 3.02) 0.94 (0.52 to 1.70) Zidovudine 500 mg/day orally for 21 days 1200 mg/day orally for 14 days 4 1.31 (0.43 to 3.97) 1.30 (0.69 to 2.43) * -90% Confidence interval not reported Table 2. Drug Interactions: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Azithromycin in the Presence of Coadministered Drugs [see Drug Interactions ( 7 )]. Coadministered Drug Dose of Coadministered Drug Dose of Azithromycin n Ratio (with/without coadministered drug) of Azithromycin Pharmacokinetic Parameters (90% CI); No Effect = 1 Mean C max Mean AUC Efavirenz 400 mg/day for 7 days 600 mg orally on day 7 14 1.22 (1.04 to 1.42) 0.92* Fluconazole 200 mg orally single dose 1200 mg orally single dose 18 0.82 (0.66 to 1.02) 1.07 (0.94 to 1.22) Nelfinavir 750 mg three times a day for 11 days 1200 mg orally on day 9 14 2.36 (1.77 to 3.15) 2.12 (1.80 to 2.50) * -90% Confidence interval not reported
3 Day Regimen5 Day Regimen
Pharmacokinetic Parameter [mean (SD)]Day 1Day 3Day 1Day 5
C max (serum, mcg/mL) 0.44 (0.22)0.54 (0.25)0.43 (0.20)0.24 (0.06)
Serum AUC 0-∞ (mcg·hr/mL) 17.4 (6.2)*14.9 (3.1)*
Serum T 1/271.8 hr68.9 hr
Pharmacokinetic Parameter [mean (SD)] 5 Day Regimen (12 mg/kg for 5 days)
N 17
C max (mcg/mL) 0.5 (0.4)
T max (hr) 2.2 (0.8)
AUC 0-24(mcg⋅hr/mL) 3.9 (1.9)
Table 1. Drug Interactions: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Coadministered Drugs in the Presence of Azithromycin
Coadministered DrugDose of Coadministered DrugDose of AzithromycinnRatio (with/without azithromycin) of Coadministered Drug Pharmacokinetic Parameters (90% CI); No Effect = 1
Mean C maxMean AUC
Atorvastatin10 mg/day for 8 days500 mg/day orally on days 6 to 8120.83(0.63 to 1.08)1.01(0.81 to 1.25)
Carbamazepine200 mg/day for 2 days, then 200 mg twice a day for 18 days500 mg/day orally for days 16 to 1870.97(0.88 to 1.06)0.96(0.88 to 1.06)
Cetirizine20 mg/day for 11 days500 mg orally on day 7, then 250 mg/day on days 8 to 11141.03(0.93 to 1.14)1.02(0.92 to 1.13)
Didanosine200 mg orally twice a day for 21 days1200 mg/day orally on days 8 to 2161.44(0.85 to 2.43)1.14(0.83 to 1.57)
Efavirenz400 mg/day for 7 days600 mg orally on day 7141.04*0.95*
Fluconazole200 mg orally single dose1200 mg orally single dose181.04(0.98 to 1.11)1.01(0.97 to 1.05)
Indinavir800 mg three times a day for 5 days1200 mg orally on day 5180.96(0.86 to 1.08)0.90(0.81 to 1)
Midazolam15 mg orally on day 3500 mg/day orally for 3 days121.27(0.89 to 1.81)1.26(1.01 to 1.56)
Nelfinavir750 mg three times a day for 11 days1200 mg orally on day 9140.90(0.81 to 1.01)0.85(0.78 to 0.93)
Sildenafil100 mg on days 1 and 4500 mg/day orally for 3 days121.16(0.86 to 1.57)0.92(0.75 to 1.12)
Theophylline4 mg/kg IV on days 1, 11, 25500 mg orally on day 7, 250 mg/day on days 8 to 11101.19(1.02 to 1.40)1.02(0.86 to 1.22)
Theophylline300 mg orally twice a day for 15 days500 mg orally on day 6, then 250 mg/day on days 7 to 1081.09(0.92 to 1.29)1.08(0.89 to 1.31)
Triazolam0.125 mg on day 2500 mg orally on day 1, then 250 mg/day on day 2121.06*1.02*
Trimethoprim/ Sulfamethoxazole160 mg/800 mg/day orally for 7 days1200 mg orally on day 7120.85(0.75 to 0.97)/ 0.90 (0.78 to 1.03)0.87(0.80 to 0.95)/ 0.96(0.88 to 1.03)
Zidovudine500 mg/day orally for 21 days600 mg/day orally for 14 days51.12(0.42 to 3.02)0.94(0.52 to 1.70)
Zidovudine500 mg/day orally for 21 days1200 mg/day orally for 14 days41.31(0.43 to 3.97)1.30(0.69 to 2.43)
Table 2. Drug Interactions: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Azithromycin in the Presence of Coadministered Drugs [see Drug Interactions ( 7)].
Coadministered DrugDose of Coadministered DrugDose of AzithromycinnRatio (with/without coadministered drug) of Azithromycin Pharmacokinetic Parameters (90% CI); No Effect = 1
Mean C maxMean AUC
Efavirenz400 mg/day for 7 days600 mg orally on day 7141.22(1.04 to 1.42)0.92*
Fluconazole200 mg orally single dose1200 mg orally single dose180.82(0.66 to 1.02)1.07(0.94 to 1.22)
Nelfinavir750 mg three times a day for 11 days1200 mg orally on day 9142.36(1.77 to 3.15)2.12(1.80 to 2.50)

Contraindications

Information about situations in which the drug product is contraindicated or should not be used because the risk of use clearly outweighs any possible benefit, including the type and nature of reactions that have been reported.
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Patients with known hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin, any macrolide or ketolide drug. ( 4.1 ) Patients with a history of cholestatic jaundice/hepatic dysfunction associated with prior use of azithromycin. ( 4.2 ) 4.1 Hypersensitivity Azithromycin for oral suspension is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin, any macrolide or ketolide drug. 4.2 Hepatic Dysfunction Azithromycin for oral suspension is contraindicated in patients with a history of cholestatic jaundice/hepatic dysfunction associated with prior use of azithromycin.

Description

General information about the drug product, including the proprietary and established name of the drug, the type of dosage form and route of administration to which the label applies, qualitative and quantitative ingredient information, the pharmacologic or therapeutic class of the drug, and the chemical name and structural formula of the drug.
11 DESCRIPTION Azithromycin for oral suspension USP contains the active ingredient azithromycin, USP, a macrolide antibacterial drug, for oral administration. Azithromycin, USP has the chemical name (2R,3S,4R,5R,8R, 10R,11R,12S,13S,14R) -13-[(2,6-dideoxy-3- C -methyl-3- O -methyl-α- L-ribo- hexopyranosyl) oxy]-2-ethyl-3,4,10-trihydroxy-3,5,6,8,10,12,14-heptamethyl-11-[[3,4,6-trideoxy-3- (dimethylamino)-β- D-xylo -hexopyranosyl]oxy]-1-oxa-6-azacyclopentadecan-15-one. Azithromycin, USP is derived from erythromycin; however, it differs chemically from erythromycin in that a methyl-substituted nitrogen atom is incorporated into the lactone ring. Azithromycin, USP has the following structural formula: C 38 H 72 N 2 O 12 M.W. 749.0 Azithromycin, USP, as the monohydrate, is a white crystalline powder with a molecular formula of C 38 H 72 N 2 O 12 •H 2 O and a molecular weight of 767.0. Azithromycin for oral suspension USP is supplied in bottles containing azithromycin monohydrate powder equivalent to 300 mg, 600 mg, 900 mg or 1200 mg azithromycin, USP per bottle and the following inactive ingredients: ammonio methacrylate copolymer, banana flavor, cherry flavor, colloidal silicon dioxide, FD&C Red No. 40, hydroxypropyl cellulose, sucrose, tribasic sodium phosphate anhydrous, vanilla flavor, and xanthan gum. After constitution, each 5 mL of suspension contains 100 mg or 200 mg of azithromycin, USP. Structure

Dosage and administration

Information about the drug product’s dosage and administration recommendations, including starting dose, dose range, titration regimens, and any other clinically sigificant information that affects dosing recommendations.
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Adult Patients Infection Recommended Dose/Duration of Therapy Community-acquired pneumonia (mild severity) Pharyngitis/tonsillitis (second-line therapy) Skin/skin structure (uncomplicated) 500 mg as a single dose on Day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on Days 2 through 5. Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (mild to moderate) 500 mg as a single dose on Day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on Days 2 through 5 or 500 mg once daily for 3 days. Acute bacterial sinusitis 500 mg once daily for 3 days. Genital ulcer disease (chancroid) Non-gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis One single 1 gram dose. Gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis One single 2 gram dose. Pediatric Patients Infection Recommended Dose/Duration of Therapy Acute otitis media 30 mg/kg as a single dose or 10 mg/kg once daily for 3 days or 10 mg/kg as a single dose on Day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg/day on Days 2 through 5. Acute bacterial sinusitis 10 mg/kg once daily for 3 days. Community-acquired pneumonia 10 mg/kg as a single dose on Day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg once daily on Days 2 through 5. Pharyngitis/tonsillitis 12 mg/kg once daily for 5 days. 2.1 Adult Patients [See Indications and Usage ( 1.1 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] Infection* Recommended Dose/Duration of Therapy Community-acquired pneumonia Pharyngitis/tonsillitis (second-line therapy) Skin/skin structure (uncomplicated) 500 mg as a single dose on Day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on Days 2 through 5 Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 500 mg once daily for 3 days OR 500 mg as a single dose on Day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on Days 2 through 5 Acute bacterial sinusitis 500 mg-once daily for 3 days Genital ulcer disease (chancroid) One single 1 gram dose Non-gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis One single 1 gram dose Gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis One single 2 gram dose *DUE TO THE INDICATED ORGANISMS [see Indications and Usage ( 1.1 )] Azithromycin tablets can be taken with or without food. 2.2 Pediatric Patients 1 Infection* Recommended Dose/Duration of Therapy Acute otitis media 30 mg/kg as a single dose or 10 mg/kg once daily for 3 days or 10 mg/kg as a single dose on Day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg/day on Days 2 through 5. Acute bacterial sinusitis 10 mg/kg once daily for 3 days. Community-acquired pneumonia 10 mg/kg as a single dose on Day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg once daily on Days 2 through 5. Pharyngitis/tonsillitis 12 mg/kg once daily for 5 days. *DUE TO THE INDICATED ORGANISMS [see Indications and Usage ( 1.2 )] 1 see dosing tables below for maximum doses evaluated by indication Azithromycin for oral suspension can be taken with or without food. PEDIATRIC DOSAGE GUIDELINES FOR OTITIS MEDIA, ACUTE BACTERIAL SINUSITIS, AND COMMUNITY-ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA (Age 6 months and above, [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 )] ) Based on Body Weight OTITIS MEDIA AND COMMUNITY-ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA: (5 Day Regimen)* Dosing Calculated on 10 mg/kg/day Day 1 and 5 mg/kg/day Days 2 to 5. Weight 100 mg/5 mL 200 mg/5 mL Total mL per Treatment Course Total mg per Treatment Course Kg Lbs. Day 1 Days 2 to 5 Day 1 Days 2 to 5 5 11 2.5 mL; (½ tsp) 1.25 mL; (¼ tsp) 7.5 mL 150 mg 10 22 5 mL; (1 tsp) 2.5 mL; (½ tsp) 15 mL 300 mg 20 44 5 mL; (1 tsp) 2.5 mL; (½ tsp) 15 mL 600 mg 30 66 7.5 mL; (1½ tsp) 3.75 mL; (¾ tsp) 22.5 mL 900 mg 40 88 10 mL; (2 tsp) 5 mL; (1 tsp) 30 mL 1200 mg 50 and above 110 and above 12.5 mL; (2½ tsp) 6.25 mL; (1¼ tsp) 37.5 mL 1500 mg * Effectiveness of the 3 day or 1 day regimen in pediatric patients with community-acquired pneumonia has not been established. OTITIS MEDIA AND ACUTE BACTERIAL SINUSITIS: (3 Day Regimen)* Dosing Calculated on 10 mg/kg/day Weight 100 mg/5 mL 200 mg/5 mL Total mL per Treatment Course Total mg per Treatment Course Kg Lbs. Days 1 to 3 Days 1 to 3 5 11 2.5 mL; (½ tsp) 7.5 mL 150 mg 10 22 5 mL; (1 tsp) 15 mL 300 mg 20 44 5 mL (1 tsp) 15 mL 600 mg 30 66 7.5 mL (1½ tsp) 22.5 mL 900 mg 40 88 10 mL (2 tsp) 30 mL 1200 mg 50 and above 110 and above 12.5 mL (2½ tsp) 37.5 mL 1500 mg *Effectiveness of the 5 day or 1 day regimen in pediatric patients with acute bacterial sinusitis has not been established. OTITIS MEDIA: (1 Day Regimen) Dosing Calculated on 30 mg/kg as a single dose Weight 200 mg/5 mL Total mL per Treatment Course Total mg per Treatment Course Kg Lbs. 1 Day Regimen 5 11 3.75 mL; (3/4 tsp) 3.75 mL 150 mg 10 22 7.5 mL; (1½ tsp) 7.5 mL 300 mg 20 44 15 mL; (3 tsp) 15 mL 600 mg 30 66 22.5 mL; (4½ tsp) 22.5 mL 900 mg 40 88 30 mL; (6 tsp) 30 mL 1200 mg 50 and above 110 and above 37.5 mL; (7½ tsp) 37.5 mL 1500 mg The safety of re-dosing azithromycin in pediatric patients who vomit after receiving 30 mg/kg as a single dose has not been established. In clinical studies involving 487 patients with acute otitis media given a single 30 mg/kg dose of azithromycin, eight patients who vomited within 30 minutes of dosing were re-dosed at the same total dose. Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis: The recommended dose of azithromycin for children with pharyngitis/tonsillitis is 12 mg/kg once daily for 5 days. (See chart below.) PEDIATRIC DOSAGE GUIDELINES FOR PHARYNGITIS/TONSILLITIS (Age 2 years and above, [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 )] ) Based on Body Weight PHARYNGITIS/TONSILLITIS: (5 Day Regimen) Dosing Calculated on 12 mg/kg/day for 5 days. Weight 200 mg/5 mL Total mL per Treatment Course Total mg per Treatment Course Kg Lbs. Day 1 to 5 8 18 2.5 mL; (½ tsp) 12.5 mL 500 mg 17 37 5 mL; (1 tsp) 25 mL 1000 mg 25 55 7.5 mL; (1½ tsp) 37.5 mL 1500 mg 33 73 10 mL; (2 tsp) 50 mL 2000 mg 40 88 12.5 mL; (2½ tsp) 62.5 mL 2500 mg Constituting instructions for azithromycin for oral suspension 300, 600, 900, 1200 mg bottles. The table below indicates the volume of water to be used for constitution: Amount of water to be added Total volume after constitution (azithromycin content) Azithromycin concentration after constitution 9 mL (300 mg) 15 mL (300 mg) 100 mg/5 mL 9 mL (600 mg) 15 mL (600 mg) 200 mg/5 mL 12 mL (900 mg) 22.5 mL (900 mg) 200 mg/5 mL 15 mL (1200 mg) 30 mL (1200 mg) 200 mg/5 mL
InfectionRecommended Dose/Duration of Therapy
Community-acquired pneumonia (mild severity) Pharyngitis/tonsillitis (second-line therapy) Skin/skin structure (uncomplicated) 500 mg as a single dose on Day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on Days 2 through 5.
Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (mild to moderate) 500 mg as a single dose on Day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on Days 2 through 5 or 500 mg once daily for 3 days.
Acute bacterial sinusitis 500 mg once daily for 3 days.
Genital ulcer disease (chancroid) Non-gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis One single 1 gram dose.
Gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis One single 2 gram dose.
InfectionRecommended Dose/Duration of Therapy
Acute otitis media30 mg/kg as a single dose or 10 mg/kg once daily for 3 days or 10 mg/kg as a single dose on Day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg/day on Days 2 through 5.
Acute bacterial sinusitis 10 mg/kg once daily for 3 days.
Community-acquired pneumonia 10 mg/kg as a single dose on Day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg once daily on Days 2 through 5.
Pharyngitis/tonsillitis 12 mg/kg once daily for 5 days.
Infection* Recommended Dose/Duration of Therapy
Community-acquired pneumonia Pharyngitis/tonsillitis (second-line therapy) Skin/skin structure (uncomplicated) 500 mg as a single dose on Day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on Days 2 through 5
Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 500 mg once daily for 3 daysOR 500 mg as a single dose on Day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on Days 2 through 5
Acute bacterial sinusitis 500 mg-once daily for 3 days
Genital ulcer disease (chancroid) One single 1 gram dose
Non-gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis One single 1 gram dose
Gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis One single 2 gram dose
*DUE TO THE INDICATED ORGANISMS [see Indications and Usage ( 1.1)]
Infection* Recommended Dose/Duration of Therapy
Acute otitis media 30 mg/kg as a single dose or 10 mg/kg once daily for 3 days or 10 mg/kg as a single dose on Day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg/day on Days 2 through 5.
Acute bacterial sinusitis 10 mg/kg once daily for 3 days.
Community-acquired pneumonia 10 mg/kg as a single dose on Day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg once daily on Days 2 through 5.
Pharyngitis/tonsillitis 12 mg/kg once daily for 5 days.
*DUE TO THE INDICATED ORGANISMS [see Indications and Usage ( 1.2)] 1 see dosing tables below for maximum doses evaluated by indication
PEDIATRIC DOSAGE GUIDELINES FOR OTITIS MEDIA, ACUTE BACTERIAL SINUSITIS, AND COMMUNITY-ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA(Age 6 months and above, [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4)] ) Based on Body Weight
OTITIS MEDIA AND COMMUNITY-ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA: (5 Day Regimen)*
Dosing Calculated on 10 mg/kg/day Day 1and 5 mg/kg/day Days 2 to 5.
Weight100 mg/5 mL200 mg/5 mLTotal mL perTreatmentCourseTotal mg perTreatmentCourse
KgLbs.Day 1Days 2 to 5Day 1Days 2 to 5
5112.5 mL; (½ tsp)1.25 mL; (¼ tsp)7.5 mL150 mg
10225 mL; (1 tsp)2.5 mL; (½ tsp)15 mL300 mg
20445 mL; (1 tsp)2.5 mL; (½ tsp) 15 mL600 mg
30667.5 mL; (1½ tsp)3.75 mL; (¾ tsp) 22.5 mL900 mg
408810 mL; (2 tsp) 5 mL; (1 tsp) 30 mL1200 mg
50 and above110 and above12.5 mL; (2½ tsp)6.25 mL; (1¼ tsp)37.5 mL1500 mg
OTITIS MEDIA AND ACUTE BACTERIAL SINUSITIS: (3 Day Regimen)*
Dosing Calculated on 10 mg/kg/day
Weight100 mg/5 mL200 mg/5 mLTotal mL perTreatmentCourseTotal mg perTreatmentCourse
KgLbs.Days 1 to 3Days 1 to 3
5112.5 mL; (½ tsp) 7.5 mL150 mg
10225 mL; (1 tsp) 15 mL300 mg
20445 mL(1 tsp)15 mL600 mg
30667.5 mL(1½ tsp)22.5 mL900 mg
408810 mL(2 tsp)30 mL1200 mg
50 and above110 and above12.5 mL(2½ tsp)37.5 mL1500 mg
OTITIS MEDIA: (1 Day Regimen)
Dosing Calculated on 30 mg/kg as a single dose
Weight200 mg/5 mL Total mL perTreatment CourseTotal mg perTreatment Course
KgLbs.1 Day Regimen
511 3.75 mL; (3/4 tsp) 3.75 mL 150 mg
1022 7.5 mL; (1½ tsp) 7.5 mL 300 mg
2044 15 mL; (3 tsp) 15 mL 600 mg
3066 22.5 mL; (4½ tsp) 22.5 mL 900 mg
4088 30 mL; (6 tsp) 30 mL 1200 mg
50 and above110 and above 37.5 mL; (7½ tsp) 37.5 mL 1500 mg
PEDIATRIC DOSAGE GUIDELINES FOR PHARYNGITIS/TONSILLITIS(Age 2 years and above, [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4)] ) Based on Body Weight
PHARYNGITIS/TONSILLITIS: (5 Day Regimen)
Dosing Calculated on 12 mg/kg/day for 5 days.
Weight200 mg/5 mLTotal mL per TreatmentCourse Total mg per TreatmentCourse
KgLbs.Day 1 to 5
818 2.5 mL; (½ tsp) 12.5 mL 500 mg
1737 5 mL; (1 tsp) 25 mL 1000 mg
2555 7.5 mL; (1½ tsp) 37.5 mL 1500 mg
3373 10 mL; (2 tsp) 50 mL 2000 mg
4088 12.5 mL; (2½ tsp) 62.5 mL 2500 mg
Amount of water to be addedTotal volume after constitution (azithromycin content)Azithromycin concentration after constitution
9 mL (300 mg)15 mL (300 mg)100 mg/5 mL
9 mL (600 mg)15 mL (600 mg)200 mg/5 mL
12 mL (900 mg)22.5 mL (900 mg)200 mg/5 mL
15 mL (1200 mg)30 mL (1200 mg)200 mg/5 mL

Dosage forms and strengths

Information about all available dosage forms and strengths for the drug product to which the labeling applies. This field may contain descriptions of product appearance.
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Azithromycin for oral suspension after constitution contains a flavored suspension. Azithromycin for oral suspension is supplied to provide 100 mg/5 mL or 200 mg/5 mL suspension in bottles. Azithromycin for oral suspension 100 mg/5 mL and 200 mg/5 mL

Indications and usage

A statement of each of the drug products indications for use, such as for the treatment, prevention, mitigation, cure, or diagnosis of a disease or condition, or of a manifestation of a recognized disease or condition, or for the relief of symptoms associated with a recognized disease or condition. This field may also describe any relevant limitations of use.
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of azithromycin for oral suspension USP and other antibacterial drugs, azithromycin for oral suspension USP should be used only to treat infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy. Azithromycin for oral suspension USP is a macrolide antibacterial drug indicated for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the specific conditions listed below. Recommended dosages and durations of therapy in adult and pediatric patient populations vary in these indications. [see Dosage and Administration ( 2 )] Azithromycin for oral suspension USP is a macrolide antibacterial drug indicated for mild to moderate infections caused by designated, susceptible bacteria: Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis in adults ( 1.1 ) Acute bacterial sinusitis in adults ( 1.1 ) Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections in adults ( 1.1 ) Urethritis and cervicitis in adults ( 1.1 ) Genital ulcer disease in men ( 1.1 ) Acute otitis media in pediatric patients ( 1.2 ) Community-acquired pneumonia in adults and pediatric patients ( 1.1 , 1.2 ) Pharyngitis/tonsillitis in adults and pediatric patients ( 1.1 , 1.2 ) Limitation of Use: Azithromycin should not be used in patients with pneumonia who are judged to be inappropriate for oral therapy because of moderate to severe illness or risk factors. ( 1.3 ) To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of azithromycin for oral suspension USP and other antibacterial drugs, azithromycin for oral suspension USP should be used only to treat infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria 1.1 Adult Patients Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis due to Haemophilus influenzae , Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae . Acute bacterial sinusitis due to Haemophilus influenzae , Moraxella catarrhalis. or Streptococcus pneumoniae . Community-acquired pneumonia due to Chlamydophila pneumoniae , Haemophilus influenzae , Mycoplasma pneumoniae, or Streptococcus pneumoniae in patients appropriate for oral therapy. Pharyngitis/tonsillitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes as an alternative to first-line therapy in individuals who cannot use first-line therapy. Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections due to Staphylococcus aureus , Streptococcus pyogenes , or Streptococcus agalactiae . Urethritis and cervicitis due to Chlamydia trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhoeae . Genital ulcer disease in men due to Haemophilus ducreyi (chancroid). Due to the small number of women included in clinical trials, the efficacy of azithromycin in the treatment of chancroid in women has not been established. 1.2 Pediatric Patients [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 ) and Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] Acute otitis media (> 6 months of age) c aused by Haemophilus influenzae , Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae Community-acquired pneumonia (> 6 months of age) due to Chlamydophila pneumoniae , Haemophilus influenzae , Mycoplasma pneumonia , or Streptococcus pneumoniae in patients appropriate for oral therapy. Pharyngitis/tonsillitis (> 2 years of age ) caused by Streptococcus pyogenes as an alternative to first-line therapy in individuals who cannot use first-line therapy. 1.3 Limitations of Use Azithromycin should not be used in patients with pneumonia who are judged to be inappropriate for oral therapy because of moderate to severe illness or risk factors such as any of the following: patients with cystic fibrosis, patients with nosocomial infections, patients with known or suspected bacteremia, patients requiring hospitalization, elderly or debilitated patients, or patients with significant underlying health problems that may compromise their ability to respond to their illness (including immunodeficiency or functional asplenia).

Spl product data elements

Usually a list of ingredients in a drug product.
Azithromycin Azithromycin DIMETHYLAMINOETHYL METHACRYLATE - BUTYL METHACRYLATE - METHYL METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER SILICON DIOXIDE FD&C RED NO. 40 HYDROXYPROPYL CELLULOSE (1600000 WAMW) SUCROSE SODIUM PHOSPHATE, TRIBASIC, ANHYDROUS XANTHAN GUM AZITHROMYCIN MONOHYDRATE AZITHROMYCIN ANHYDROUS Azithromycin Azithromycin DIMETHYLAMINOETHYL METHACRYLATE - BUTYL METHACRYLATE - METHYL METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER SILICON DIOXIDE FD&C RED NO. 40 HYDROXYPROPYL CELLULOSE (1600000 WAMW) SUCROSE SODIUM PHOSPHATE, TRIBASIC, ANHYDROUS XANTHAN GUM AZITHROMYCIN MONOHYDRATE AZITHROMYCIN ANHYDROUS

Animal pharmacology and or toxicology

Information from studies of the drug in animals, if the data were not relevant to nor included in other parts of the labeling. Most labels do not contain this field.
13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology Phospholipidosis (intracellular phospholipid accumulation) has been observed in some tissues of mice, rats, and dogs given multiple doses of azithromycin. It has been demonstrated in numerous organ systems (e.g., eye, dorsal root ganglia, liver, gallbladder, kidney, spleen, and/or pancreas) in dogs and rats treated with azithromycin at doses which, expressed on the basis of body surface area, are similar to or less than the highest recommended adult human dose. This effect has been shown to be reversible after cessation of azithromycin treatment. Based on the pharmacokinetic data, phospholipidosis has been seen in the rat (50 mg/kg/day dose) at the observed maximal plasma concentration of 1.3 mcg/mL (1.6 times the observed Cmax of 0.821 mcg/mL at the adult dose of 2 g). Similarly, it has been shown in the dog (10 mg/kg/day dose) at the observed maximal serum concentration of 1 mcg/mL (1.2 times the observed Cmax of 0.821 mcg/mL at the adult dose of 2 g). Phospholipidosis was also observed in neonatal rats dosed for 18 days at 30 mg/kg/day, which is less than the pediatric dose of 60 mg/kg based on body surface area. It was not observed in neonatal rats treated for 10 days at 40 mg/kg/day with mean maximal serum concentrations of 1.86 mcg/mL, approximately 1.5 times the Cmax of 1.27 mcg/mL at the pediatric dose. Phospholipidosis has been observed in neonatal dogs (10 mg/kg/day) at maximum mean whole blood concentrations of 3.54 mcg/mL, approximately 3 times the pediatric dose Cmax . The significance of these findings for animals and for humans is unknown.

Carcinogenesis and mutagenesis and impairment of fertility

Information about carcinogenic, mutagenic, or fertility impairment potential revealed by studies in animals. Information from human data about such potential is part of the warnings field.
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Long-term studies in animals have not been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential. Azithromycin has shown no mutagenic potential in standard laboratory tests: mouse lymphoma assay, human lymphocyte clastogenic assay, and mouse bone marrow clastogenic assay. No evidence of impaired fertility due to azithromycin was found in rats given daily doses up to 10 mg/kg (approximately 0.2 times an adult daily dose of 500 mg based on body surface area).

Nonclinical toxicology

Information about toxicology in non-human subjects.
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY 13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Long-term studies in animals have not been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential. Azithromycin has shown no mutagenic potential in standard laboratory tests: mouse lymphoma assay, human lymphocyte clastogenic assay, and mouse bone marrow clastogenic assay. No evidence of impaired fertility due to azithromycin was found in rats given daily doses up to 10 mg/kg (approximately 0.2 times an adult daily dose of 500 mg based on body surface area). 13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology Phospholipidosis (intracellular phospholipid accumulation) has been observed in some tissues of mice, rats, and dogs given multiple doses of azithromycin. It has been demonstrated in numerous organ systems (e.g., eye, dorsal root ganglia, liver, gallbladder, kidney, spleen, and/or pancreas) in dogs and rats treated with azithromycin at doses which, expressed on the basis of body surface area, are similar to or less than the highest recommended adult human dose. This effect has been shown to be reversible after cessation of azithromycin treatment. Based on the pharmacokinetic data, phospholipidosis has been seen in the rat (50 mg/kg/day dose) at the observed maximal plasma concentration of 1.3 mcg/mL (1.6 times the observed Cmax of 0.821 mcg/mL at the adult dose of 2 g). Similarly, it has been shown in the dog (10 mg/kg/day dose) at the observed maximal serum concentration of 1 mcg/mL (1.2 times the observed Cmax of 0.821 mcg/mL at the adult dose of 2 g). Phospholipidosis was also observed in neonatal rats dosed for 18 days at 30 mg/kg/day, which is less than the pediatric dose of 60 mg/kg based on body surface area. It was not observed in neonatal rats treated for 10 days at 40 mg/kg/day with mean maximal serum concentrations of 1.86 mcg/mL, approximately 1.5 times the Cmax of 1.27 mcg/mL at the pediatric dose. Phospholipidosis has been observed in neonatal dogs (10 mg/kg/day) at maximum mean whole blood concentrations of 3.54 mcg/mL, approximately 3 times the pediatric dose Cmax . The significance of these findings for animals and for humans is unknown.

Package label principal display panel

The content of the principal display panel of the product package, usually including the product’s name, dosage forms, and other key information about the drug product.
Package Labeling (55695-002-00) 55695-002 Package Labeling (55695-003-00) 55695-003

Spl unclassified section

Information not classified as belonging to one of the other fields. Approximately 40% of labeling with effective_time between June 2009 and August 2014 have information in this field.
Patient Information Azithromycin (a ZITH roe MYE sin) For Oral Suspension USP Read this Patient Information leaflet before you start taking azithromycin for oral suspension and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or your treatment. What is azithromycin for oral suspension? Azithromycin for oral suspension is a macrolide antibiotic prescription medicine used in adults 18 years or older to treat certain infections caused by certain germs called bacteria. These bacterial infections include: acute worsening of chronic bronchitis acute sinus infection community-acquired pneumonia infected throat or tonsils skin infections infections of the urethra or cervix genital ulcers in men Azithromycin for oral suspension is also used in children to treat: ear infections community-acquired pneumonia infected throat or tonsils Azithromycin should not be taken by people who cannot tolerate oral medications because they are very ill or have certain other risk factors including: have cystic fibrosis have hospital acquired infections have known or suspected bacteria in the blood need to be in the hospital are elderly have any medical problems that can lower the ability of the immune system to fight infections Azithromycin for oral suspension is not for viral infections such as the common cold. It is not known if azithromycin for oral suspension is safe and effective for genital ulcers in women. It is not known if azithromycin for oral suspension is safe and effective for children with ear infections, sinus infections, and community-acquired pneumonia under 6 months of age. It is not known if azithromycin for oral suspension is safe and effective for infected throat or tonsils in children under 2 years of age. Who should not take azithromycin for oral suspension? Do not take azithromycin for oral suspension if you: have had a severe allergic reaction to certain antibiotics known as macrolides or ketolides including azithromycin and erythromycin. have a history of cholestatic jaundice or hepatic dysfunction that happened with the use of azithromycin. What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking azithromycin for oral suspension? Before you take azithromycin for oral suspension, tell your healthcare provider if you: have pneumonia have cystic fibrosis have known or suspected bacteremia (bacterial infection in the blood) have liver or kidney problems have an irregular heartbeat, especially a problem called “QT prolongation” have a problem that causes muscle weakness (myasthenia gravis) have any other medical problems are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if azithromycin for oral suspension will harm your unborn baby. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Azithromycin has been reported to pass into breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby while you take azithromycin for oral suspension. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Azithromycin for oral suspension and other medicines may affect each other causing side effects. Azithromycin for oral suspension may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how azithromycin for oral suspension works. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take: nelfinavir a blood thinner (warfarin) digoxin phenytoin an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. How should I take azithromycin for oral suspension? Take azithromycin for oral suspension exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it. Azithromycin for oral suspension can be taken with or without food. If you take azithromycin for oral suspension, shake the bottle well just before you take it. Do not skip any doses of azithromycin for oral suspension or stop taking it, even if you begin to feel better, until you finish your prescribed treatment unless you have a serious allergic reaction or your healthcare provider tells you to stop taking azithromycin for oral suspension. See “What are the possible side effects of azithromycin for oral suspension?” If you skip doses, or do not complete the total course of azithromycin for oral suspension your treatment may not work as well and your infection may be harder to treat. Taking all of your azithromycin for oral suspension doses will help lower the chance that the bacteria will become resistant to azithromycin. If the bacteria becomes resistant to azithromycin, azithromycin for oral suspension and other antibiotic medicines may not work for you in the future. If you take too much azithromycin for oral suspension, call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away. What are the possible side effects of azithromycin for oral suspension? Azithromycin for oral suspension can cause serious side effects, including: Serious allergic reactions. Allergic reactions can happen in people taking azithromcyin the active ingredient in azithromycin for oral suspension, even after only 1 dose. Stop taking azithromycin for oral suspension and get emergency medical help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a severe allergic reaction: hives trouble breathing or swallowing swelling of the lips, tongue, face throat tightness, hoarseness rapid heartbeat faintness skin rash Stop taking azithromycin for oral suspension at the first sign of a skin rash and call your healthcare provider. Skin rash may be a sign of a more serious reaction to azithromycin for oral suspension. Liver damage (hepatotoxicity). Hepatotoxicity can happen in people who take azithromycin for oral suspension. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have unexplained symptoms such as: nausea or vomiting stomach pain fever weakness abdominal pain or tenderness itching unusual tiredness loss of appetite change in the color of your bowel movements dark colored urine yellowing of your skin or of the whites of your eyes Stop taking azithromycin for oral suspension and tell your healthcare provider right away if you have yellowing of your skin or white part of your eyes, or if you have dark urine. These can be signs of a serious reaction to azithromycin for oral suspension (a liver problem). Serious heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation and torsades de pointes). Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have a change in your heartbeat (a fast or irregular heartbeat), or if you feel faint and dizzy. Azithromycin for oral suspension may cause a rare heart problem known as prolongation of the QT interval. This condition can cause an abnormal heartbeat and can be very dangerous. The chances of this happening are higher in people: who are elderly with a family history of prolonged QT interval with low blood potassium who take certain medicines to control heart rhythm (antiarrhythmics) Worsening of myasthenia gravis (a problem that causes muscle weakness). Certain antibiotics like azithromycin for oral suspension may cause worsening of myasthenia gravis symptoms, including muscle weakness and breathing problems. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any worsening muscle weakness or breathing problems. Diarrhea. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have watery diarrhea, diarrhea that does not go away, or bloody stools. You may experience cramping and a fever. This could happen after you have finished your azithromycin for oral suspension. The most common side effects of azithromycin for oral suspension include: nausea stomach pain vomiting These are not all the possible side effects of azithromycin for oral suspension. Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. How should I store azithromycin for oral suspension? Store dry powder at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). PROTECT FROM FREEZING. Store constituted suspension between 5° to 25°C (41° to 77°F) and discard when full dosing is completed. Keep azithromycin for oral suspension in a tightly closed container. Safely throw away any medicine that is out of date or no longer needed. Keep azithromycin for oral suspension and all medicines out of the reach of children. General information about the safe and effective use of azithromycin for oral suspension. Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in the Patient Information leaflet. Do not use azithromycin for oral suspension for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give azithromycin for oral suspension to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may harm them. This Patient Information leaflet summarizes the most important information about azithromycin for oral suspension. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about azithromycin for oral suspension that is written for health professionals. For more information, call 1-888-838-2872. What are the ingredients in azithromycin for oral suspension? Active ingredient: azithromycin monohydrate Inactive ingredients: ammonio methacrylate copolymer, banana flavor, cherry flavor, colloidal silicon dioxide, FD&C Red No. 40, hydroxypropyl cellulose, sucrose, tribasic sodium phosphate anhydrous, vanilla flavor, and xanthan gum. Manufactured In Croatia By: PLIVA HRVATSKA d.o.o. Zagreb, Croatia Manufactured For: TEVA PHARMACEUTICALS USA, INC. North Wales, PA 19454 Rev. B 6/2014
nausea or vomiting stomach pain fever weakness abdominal pain or tenderness itching unusual tiredness loss of appetite change in the color of your bowel movements dark colored urine yellowing of your skin or of the whites of your eyes

Azithromycin: Information for patients

Information necessary for patients to use the drug safely and effectively, such as precautions concerning driving or the concomitant use of other substances that may have harmful additive effects.
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION 17.1 General Patient Counseling Azithromycin tablets and oral suspension can be taken with or without food. Patients should also be cautioned not to take aluminum-and magnesium-containing antacids and azithromycin simultaneously. The patient should be directed to discontinue azithromycin immediately and contact a physician if any signs of an allergic reaction occur. Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including azithromycin should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When azithromycin is prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of the therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by azithromycin or other antibacterial drugs in the future. Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibacterials which usually ends when the antibacterial is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibacterials patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibacterial drug. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible. 17.2 See FDA-approved Patient Labeling Manufactured In Croatia By: PLIVA HRVATSKA d.o.o. Zagreb, Croatia Manufactured For: TEVA PHARMACEUTICALS USA, INC. North Wales, PA 19454 Rev. F 6/2014

Clinical studies

This field may contain references to clinical studies in place of detailed discussion in other sections of the labeling.
14 CLINICAL STUDIES 14.1 Adult Patients Acute Bacterial Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis In a randomized, double-blind controlled clinical trial of acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis (AECB), azithromycin (500 mg once daily for 3 days) was compared with clarithromycin (500 mg twice daily for 10 days). The primary endpoint of this trial was the clinical cure rate at Days 21 to 24. For the 304 patients analyzed in the modified intent-to-treat analysis at the Days 21 to 24 visit, the clinical cure rate for 3 days of azithromycin was 85% (125/147) compared to 82% (129/157) for 10 days of clarithromycin. The following outcomes were the clinical cure rates at the Days 21 to 24 visit for the bacteriologically evaluable patients by pathogen: Pathogen Azithromycin (3 Days) Clarithromycin (10 Days) S. pneumoniae 29/32 (91%) 21/27 (78%) H. influenzae 12/14 (86%) 14/16 (88%) M. catarrhalis 11/12 (92%) 12/15 (80%) Acute Bacterial Sinusitis In a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy controlled clinical trial of acute bacterial sinusitis, azithromycin (500 mg once daily for 3 days) was compared with amoxicillin/clavulanate (500/125 mg three times a day for 10 days). Clinical response assessments were made at Day 10 and Day 28. The primary endpoint of this trial was prospectively defined as the clinical cure rate at Day 28. For the 594 patients analyzed in the modified intent to treat analysis at the Day 10 visit, the clinical cure rate for 3 days of azithromycin was 88% (268/303) compared to 85% (248/291) for 10 days of amoxicillin/clavulanate. For the 586 patients analyzed in the modified intent to treat analysis at the Day 28 visit, the clinical cure rate for 3 days of azithromycin was 71.5% (213/298) compared to 71.5% (206/288), with a 97.5% confidence interval of –8.4 to 8.3, for 10 days of amoxicillin/clavulanate. In an open label, non-comparative study requiring baseline transantral sinus punctures, the following outcomes were the clinical success rates at the Day 7 and Day 28 visits for the modified intent to treat patients administered 500 mg of azithromycin once daily for 3 days with the following pathogens: Clinical Success Rates of Azithromycin (500 mg per day for 3 Days) Pathogen Day 7 Day 28 S. pneumoniae 23/26 (88%) 21/25 (84%) H. influenzae 28/32 (87%) 24/32 (75%) M. catarrhalis 14/15 (93%) 13/15 (87%) 14.2 Pediatric Patients From the perspective of evaluating pediatric clinical trials, Days 11 to 14 were considered on-therapy evaluations because of the extended half-life of azithromycin. Days 11 to 14 data are provided for clinical guidance. Days 24 to 32 evaluations were considered the primary test of cure endpoint. Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis In three double-blind controlled studies, conducted in the United States, azithromycin (12 mg/kg once a day for 5 days) was compared to penicillin V (250 mg three times a day for 10 days) in the treatment of pharyngitis due to documented Group A β-hemolytic streptococci (GABHS or S. pyogenes ). Azithromycin was clinically and microbiologically statistically superior to penicillin at Day 14 and Day 30 with the following clinical success (i.e., cure and improvement) and bacteriologic efficacy rates (for the combined evaluable patient with documented GABHS): Three U.S. Streptococcal Pharyngitis Studies Azithromycin vs. Penicillin V EFFICACY RESULTS Day 14 Day 30 Bacteriologic Eradication: Azithromycin 323/340 (95%) 255/330 (77%) Penicillin V 242/332 (73%) 206/325 (63%) Clinical Success (cure plus improvement): Azithromycin 336/343 (98%) 310/330 (94%) Penicillin V 284/338 (84%) 241/325 (74%) Approximately 1% of azithromycin-susceptible S. pyogenes isolates were resistant to azithromycin following therapy. Acute Otitis Media Efficacy using azithromycin given over 5 days (10 mg/kg on Day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg on Days 2 to 5). Trial 1 In a double-blind, controlled clinical study of acute otitis media performed in the United States, azithromycin (10 mg/kg on Day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg on Days 2 to 5) was compared to amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium (4:1). For the 553 patients who were evaluated for clinical efficacy, the clinical success rate (i.e., cure plus improvement) at the Day 11 visit was 88% for azithromycin and 88% for the control agent. For the 521 patients who were evaluated at the Day 30 visit, the clinical success rate was 73% for azithromycin and 71% for the control agent. Trial 2 In a non-comparative clinical and microbiologic trial performed in the United States, where significant rates of beta-lactamase producing organisms (35%) were found, 131 patients were evaluable for clinical efficacy. The combined clinical success rate (i.e., cure and improvement) at the Day 11 visit was 84% for azithromycin. For the 122 patients who were evaluated at the Day 30 visit, the clinical success rate was 70% for azithromycin. Microbiologic determinations were made at the pre-treatment visit. Microbiology was not reassessed at later visits. The following clinical success rates were obtained from the evaluable group: Pathogen Day 11 Azithromycin Day 30 Azithromycin S. pneumoniae 61/74 (82%) 40/56 (71%) H. influenzae 43/54 (80%) 30/47 (64%) M. catarrhalis 28/35 (80%) 19/26 (73%) S. pyogenes 11/11 (100%) 7/7 (100%) Overall 177/217 (82%) 97/137 (73%) Trial 3 In another controlled comparative clinical and microbiologic study of otitis media performed in the United States, azithromycin (10 mg/kg on Day 1 followed by 5 mg/kg on Days 2 to 5) was compared to amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium (4:1). This study utilized two of the same investigators as Protocol 2 (above), and these two investigators enrolled 90% of the patients in Protocol 3. For this reason, Protocol 3 was not considered to be an independent study. Significant rates of beta-lactamase producing organisms (20%) were found. Ninety-two (92) patients were evaluable for clinical and microbiologic efficacy. The combined clinical success rate (i.e., cure and improvement) of those patients with a baseline pathogen at the Day 11 visit was 88% for azithromycin vs. 100% for control; at the Day 30 visit, the clinical success rate was 82% for azithromycin vs. 80% for control. Microbiologic determinations were made at the pre-treatment visit. Microbiology was not reassessed at later visits. At the Day 11 and Day 30 visits, the following clinical success rates were obtained from the evaluable group: Day 11 Day 30 Pathogen Azithromycin Control Azithromycin Control S. pneumoniae 25/29 (86%) 26/26 (100%) 22/28 (79%) 18/22 (82%) H. influenzae 9/11 (82%) 9/9 (100%) 8/10 (80%) 6/8 (75%) M. catarrhalis 7/7 (100%) 5/5 (100%) 5/5 (100%) 2/3 (66%) S. pyogenes 2/2 (100%) 5/5 (100%) 2/2 (100%) 4/4 (100%) Overall 43/49 (88%) 45/45 (100%) 37/45 (82%) 30/37 (81%) Efficacy using azithromycin given over 3 days (10 mg/kg/day). Trial 4 In a double-blind, controlled, randomized clinical study of acute otitis media in pediatric patients from 6 months to 12 years of age, azithromycin (10 mg/kg per day for 3 days) was compared to amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium (7:1) in divided doses q12h for 10 days. Each patient received active drug and placebo matched for the comparator. For the 366 patients who were evaluated for clinical efficacy at the Day 12 visit, the clinical success rate (i.e., cure plus improvement) was 83% for azithromycin and 88% for the control agent. For the 362 patients who were evaluated at the Days 24 to 28 visit, the clinical success rate was 74% for azithromycin and 69% for the control agent. Efficacy using azithromycin 30 mg/kg given as a single dose Trial 5 A double-blind, controlled, randomized trial was performed at nine clinical centers. Pediatric patients from 6 months to 12 years of age were randomized 1:1 to treatment with either azithromycin (given at 30 mg/kg as a single dose on Day 1) or amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium (7:1), divided q12h for 10 days. Each child received active drug, and placebo matched for the comparator. Clinical response (Cure, Improvement, Failure) was evaluated at End of Therapy (Days 12 to 16) and Test of Cure (Days 28 to 32). Safety was evaluated throughout the trial for all treated subjects. For the 321 subjects who were evaluated at End of Treatment, the clinical success rate (cure plus improvement) was 87% for azithromycin, and 88% for the comparator. For the 305 subjects who were evaluated at Test of Cure, the clinical success rate was 75% for both azithromycin and the comparator. Trial 6 In a non-comparative clinical and microbiological trial, 248 patients from 6 months to 12 years of age with documented acute otitis media were dosed with a single oral dose of azithromycin (30 mg/kg on Day 1). For the 240 patients who were evaluable for clinical modified Intent-to-Treat (MITT) analysis, the clinical success rate (i.e., cure plus improvement) at Day 10 was 89% and for the 242 patients evaluable at Days 24 to 28, the clinical success rate (cure) was 85%. Presumed Bacteriologic Eradication Day 10 Days 24 to 28 S. pneumoniae 70/76 (92%) 67/76 (88%) H. influenzae 30/42 (71%) 28/44 (64%) M. catarrhalis 10/10 (100%) 10/10 (100%) Overall 110/128 (86%) 105/130 (81%)
PathogenAzithromycin (3 Days)Clarithromycin (10 Days)
S. pneumoniae 29/32 (91%)21/27 (78%)
H. influenzae 12/14 (86%)14/16 (88%)
M. catarrhalis 11/12 (92%)12/15 (80%)
PathogenDay 7Day 28
S. pneumoniae23/26 (88%)21/25 (84%)
H. influenzae28/32 (87%)24/32 (75%)
M. catarrhalis14/15 (93%)13/15 (87%)
Day 14Day 30
Bacteriologic Eradication:
Azithromycin 323/340 (95%)255/330 (77%)
Penicillin V 242/332 (73%)206/325 (63%)
Clinical Success (cure plus improvement):
Azithromycin 336/343 (98%)310/330 (94%)
Penicillin V 284/338 (84%)241/325 (74%)
Pathogen Day 11AzithromycinDay 30Azithromycin
S. pneumoniae61/74 (82%)40/56 (71%)
H. influenzae43/54 (80%)30/47 (64%)
M. catarrhalis28/35 (80%)19/26 (73%)
S. pyogenes11/11 (100%)7/7 (100%)
Overall177/217 (82%)97/137 (73%)
Day 11Day 30
PathogenAzithromycinControlAzithromycinControl
S. pneumoniae25/29 (86%)26/26 (100%)22/28 (79%)18/22 (82%)
H. influenzae9/11 (82%)9/9 (100%)8/10 (80%)6/8 (75%)
M. catarrhalis7/7 (100%)5/5 (100%)5/5 (100%)2/3 (66%)
S. pyogenes2/2 (100%)5/5 (100%)2/2 (100%)4/4 (100%)
Overall43/49 (88%)45/45 (100%)37/45 (82%)30/37 (81%)
Presumed Bacteriologic Eradication
Day 10Days 24 to 28
S. pneumoniae70/76 (92%)67/76 (88%)
H. influenzae30/42 (71%)28/44 (64%)
M. catarrhalis10/10 (100%)10/10 (100%)
Overall110/128 (86%)105/130 (81%)

References

This field may contain references when prescription drug labeling must summarize or otherwise relay on a recommendation by an authoritative scientific body, or on a standardized methodology, scale, or technique, because the information is important to prescribing decisions.
15 REFERENCES Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Methods for Dilution Antimicrobial Susceptibility Tests for Bacteria that Grow Aerobically; Approved Standard -Ninth Edition . CLSI document M07-A9, Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, 950 West Valley Road, Suite 2500, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087, USA, 2012. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Performance Standards for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing; Twenty-third Informational Supplement , CLSI document M100-S23. CLSI document M100-S23, Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, 950 West Valley Road, Suite 2500, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087, USA, 2013. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Performance Standards for Antimicrobial Disk Diffusion Susceptibility Tests; Approved Standard – Eleventh Edition CLSI document M02-A11, Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, 950 West Valley Road, Suite 2500, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087, USA, 2012.

Geriatric use

Information about any limitations on any geriatric indications, needs for specific monitoring, hazards associated with use of the drug in the geriatric population.
8.5 Geriatric Use In multiple-dose clinical trials of oral azithromycin, 9% of patients were at least 65 years of age (458/4949) and 3% of patients (144/4949) were at least 75 years of age. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in response between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. Elderly patients may be more susceptible to development of torsades de pointes arrhythmias than younger patients. [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS ( 5.3 )] .

Nursing mothers

Information about excretion of the drug in human milk and effects on the nursing infant, including pertinent adverse effects observed in animal offspring.
8.3 Nursing Mothers Azithromycin has been reported to be excreted in human breast milk in small amounts. Caution should be exercised when azithromycin is administered to a nursing woman.

Pediatric use

Information about any limitations on any pediatric indications, needs for specific monitoring, hazards associated with use of the drug in any subsets of the pediatric population (such as neonates, infants, children, or adolescents), differences between pediatric and adult responses to the drug, and other information related to the safe and effective pediatric use of the drug.
8.4 Pediatric Use [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ), Indications and Usage ( 1.2 ), and Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 )] Safety and effectiveness in the treatment of pediatric patients with acute otitis media, acute bacterial sinusitis and community-acquired pneumonia under 6 months of age have not been established. Use of azithromycin for the treatment of acute bacterial sinusitis and community-acquired pneumonia in pediatric patients (6 months of age or greater) is supported by adequate and well-controlled trials in adults Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis: Safety and effectiveness in the treatment of pediatric patients with pharyngitis/tonsillitis under 2 years of age have not been established.

Pregnancy

Information about effects the drug may have on pregnant women or on a fetus. This field may be ommitted if the drug is not absorbed systemically and the drug is not known to have a potential for indirect harm to the fetus. It may contain information about the established pregnancy category classification for the drug. (That information is nominally listed in the teratogenic_effects field, but may be listed here instead.)
8.1 Pregnancy Teratogenic Effects Pregnancy Category B Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and mice at doses up to moderately maternally toxic dose concentrations (i.e., 200 mg/kg/day). These daily doses in rats and mice, based on body surface area, are estimated to be 4 and 2 times, respectively, an adult daily dose of 500 mg. In the animal studies, no evidence of harm to the fetus due to azithromycin was found. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Use in specific populations

Information about use of the drug by patients in specific populations, including pregnant women and nursing mothers, pediatric patients, and geriatric patients.
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in the treatment of patients under 6 months of age have not been established. ( 8.4 ) Geriatric Use: Elderly patients may be more susceptible to development of torsades de pointes arrhythmias. ( 8.5 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Teratogenic Effects Pregnancy Category B Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and mice at doses up to moderately maternally toxic dose concentrations (i.e., 200 mg/kg/day). These daily doses in rats and mice, based on body surface area, are estimated to be 4 and 2 times, respectively, an adult daily dose of 500 mg. In the animal studies, no evidence of harm to the fetus due to azithromycin was found. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. 8.3 Nursing Mothers Azithromycin has been reported to be excreted in human breast milk in small amounts. Caution should be exercised when azithromycin is administered to a nursing woman. 8.4 Pediatric Use [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ), Indications and Usage ( 1.2 ), and Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 )] Safety and effectiveness in the treatment of pediatric patients with acute otitis media, acute bacterial sinusitis and community-acquired pneumonia under 6 months of age have not been established. Use of azithromycin for the treatment of acute bacterial sinusitis and community-acquired pneumonia in pediatric patients (6 months of age or greater) is supported by adequate and well-controlled trials in adults Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis: Safety and effectiveness in the treatment of pediatric patients with pharyngitis/tonsillitis under 2 years of age have not been established. 8.5 Geriatric Use In multiple-dose clinical trials of oral azithromycin, 9% of patients were at least 65 years of age (458/4949) and 3% of patients (144/4949) were at least 75 years of age. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in response between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. Elderly patients may be more susceptible to development of torsades de pointes arrhythmias than younger patients. [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS ( 5.3 )] .

How supplied

Information about the available dosage forms to which the labeling applies, and for which the manufacturer or distributor is responsible. This field ordinarily includes the strength of the dosage form (in metric units), the units in which the dosage form is available for prescribing, appropriate information to facilitate identification of the dosage forms (such as shape, color, coating, scoring, and National Drug Code), and special handling and storage condition information.
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Azithromycin for oral suspension USP after constitution contains a flavored pink suspension. Azithromycin for oral suspension USP is supplied to provide 100 mg/5 mL or 200 mg/5 mL suspension in bottles as follows: Azithromycin contents per bottle 300 mg 600 mg 900 mg 1200 mg See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION for constitution instructions with each bottle type. Storage: Store dry powder at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. PROTECT FROM FREEZING. Store constituted suspension between 5° to 25°C (41° to 77°F) and discard when full dosing is completed. KEEP THIS AND ALL MEDICATIONS OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.
Azithromycin contents per bottle
300 mg
600 mg
900 mg
1200 mgSee DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION for constitution instructions with each bottle type. Storage: Store dry powder at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. PROTECT FROM FREEZING.Store constituted suspension between 5° to 25°C (41° to 77°F) and discard when full dosing is completed.KEEP THIS AND ALL MEDICATIONS OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

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