Azithromycin
Indications
These indications are based on manufacturer information for both originator and generic products. For product specific registered indications, please refer to product specific manufacturer information
Registered South African indications:
- Lower respiratory tract infections, including bronchitis due to Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Streptococcus pneumoniae or Staphylococcus aureus, or pneumonia due to Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae
- Upper respiratory tract infections, including sinusitis or pharyngitis/ tonsilitis due to Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Moraxella catarrhalis or Streptococcus pyogenes
- Community-acquired pneumonia due to Chlamydia pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Streptococcus pneumoniae or Legionella pneumophila
- Uncomplicated skin and soft tissue infections
- Otitis media caused by susceptible organisms
- Uncomplicated genital infections due to Chlamydia trachomatis and/or non-multiresistant Neisseria gonorrhoea
- Chancroid due to Haemophilus ducreyi (tab)
Cautions
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any of its excipients
- Hypersensitivity to erythromycin, macrolide or ketolide antibiotics
- Hypersensitivity to soya lecithin (tab)
- Coadministration with ergot derivatives (inj)
Cautions
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Severe renal impairment
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Pre-existing hepatic disease
- Ongoing proarrhythmic conditions (especially women and elderly patients)
- Congenital or documented QT prolongation
- Electrolyte disturbance, particularly hypokalaemia or hypomagnesemia
- Clinically relevant bradycardia, cardiac arrhythmia or severe cardiac insufficiency
- Myasthenia gravis
- Prevention or treatment of Mycobacterium avium complex in children
- Severe infections requiring high doses rapidly
- Empiric treatment of infections in areas where the prevalence of resistant isolates ≥10%
- Infected burn wounds
- Concomitant infection by T. pallidum
- Neurological or psychiatric disorders
- Low sodium diet (IV)
- Diabetes mellitus (sus)
- Fructose intolerance (sus)
- Glucose-galactose malabsorption (sus, cap)
- Sucrase-isomaltase insufficiency (sus)
- Galactose intolerance (cap)
- Lapp lactase deficiency (cap)
Adult dosage
Forms avail. in SA and covered in this monograph: inj, tab, prolonged release granules (PR gra), sus, cap
Dosages below include:
- General dosing range
- South African Standard Treatment Guidelines indications and dosages
- Indications and dosages registered in other jurisdictions
Infections causes by: Gram-positive and Gram-negative aerobic cocci (excluding enterococci and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus spp.); Some Gram-negative bacilli (including Haemophilus spp., Legionella and B pertussis; Others, including: M. pneumoniae, T. pallidum, Chlamydia spp., Clostridium spp., B. bergdorferi
General dosing range
- Sexually transmitted infections: Oral: 1-2g, immediately as a single dose
- Other infections: Oral: 250-500mg, dly OR IV: 500mg, dly
See additional prescribing points for administration directions
Specific doses based on individual indications
Please note that the dosages below should be used in combination with regional guidelines, taking into account local antibiotic sensitivities
South African Standard Treatment Guidelines indications and dosages
Prophylaxis for rheumatic fever
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (sus, tab, cap): 250mg, dly
(STG, Adult, 2019; PHC 2020)
Community acquired pneumonia - severe (Additional agent required)
- IV: 500mg, as an infusion over ≥60min, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
(STG, Adult 2019)
Bronchiectasis
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (sus, tab, cap): 500mg, dly; Treatment duration: 10 days (or longer depending on response)
(STG, Adult 2019)
Peptic ulcer for H. Pylori eradication (Additional agent required)
- Severe penicillin allergy
Impetigo
- Severe penicillin allergy
Epiglottitis
- Severe penicillin allergy
Acute rheumatic fever for eradication of streptococci in throat
- Severe penicillin allergy
Acute otitis media
- Severe penicillin allergy
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - acute infective exacerbation of chronic bronchitis
- Severe penicillin allergy
Eczema with secondary infection
- Severe penicillin allergy
Cellulitis
- Severe penicillin allergy
Erysipelas
- Severe penicillin allergy
Boil
- Severe penicillin allergy
Abscess
- Severe penicillin allergy
Dental abscess
- Severe penicillin allergy
Human bites (Additional agent required)
- Severe penicillin allergy
Animal bites (Additional agent required)
- Severe penicillin allergy
Otitis externa
- Severe penicillin allergy
Mastitis
- Severe penicillin allergy
Acute bacterial sinusitis
- Severe penicillin allergy
Pharyngitis
- Severe penicillin allergy
Tonsillitis
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (sus, tab, cap): 500mg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
(STG, Adult 2019; PHC 2020; PHC 2023)
Preterm labour and preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (Additional agent required)
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (sus, tab): 500mg, dly; Treatment duration: 3-5 days
(STG, Adult 2019)
Preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM)
- Following ampicillin IV for 48hrs (Additional agent required)
- Oral (sus, tab): 1g, as a single dose
(STG, PHC 2023)
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (sus, tab): 1g, as a single dose (and refer urgently)
(STG, PHC 2023)
Prelabour rupture of membranes at term (PROM) (Additional agent required)
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (sus, tab): 500mg, as a single dose (and refer)
(STG, PHC 2023)
Mycobacteriosis - disseminated non-tuberculous (Additional agent required)
- Oral (sus, tab): 500mg, dly; Treatment duration: ≥12 months (and the CD4 count has increased to >100 cells/mm3 on ART)
(STG, Adult 2019)
Sexually transmitted infections prophylaxis (Additional agent required)
Sexually transmitted infections - treatment of partners (Additional agent required)
Management of >1 STI syndrome (Additional agent required)
- Genital ulcer syndrome + vaginal discharge syndrome (Additional agent required)
- Lower abdominal pain + genital ulcer syndrome (Additional agent required)
- Male urethritis syndrome + genital ulcer syndrome (Additional agent required)
- Scrotal swelling + genital ulcer syndrome (Additional agent required)
Acute bacterial prostatitis (Additional agent required)
- In men ≤35 years or if there are features of associated urethritis
Gonococcal arthritis
Reactive arthritis (Additional agent required)
- If urethritis is present
Parents of newborn babies who develop purulent conjunctivitis after birth (Additional agent required)
- Oral (tab, sus, cap): 1g, as a single dose
(STG, Adult 2019; PHC 2020)
Male urethritis syndrome (Additional agent required)
Vaginal discharge syndrome (Additional agent required)
- Oral (tab, sus, cap): 2g, as a single dose
(STG, Adult 2019)
Pelvic inflammatory disease - stage I (Additional agent(s) required)
- Oral (tab, sus, cap): 1g, as a single dose
(STG, Adult 2019)
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (tab, sus, cap): 2g, as a single dose
(STG, Adult 2019)
Pelvic inflammatory disease - stage II-IV (Additional agent(s) required)
- To treat chlamydia (including in severe penicillin allergy)
- Oral (tab, sus, cap): 1g, as a single dose
(STG, Adult 2019)
Tick bite fever (in pregnancy)
- Oral (tab, sus, cap): 500mg, 12hrly; Treatment duration: 3 days
(STG, Adult 2019; PHC 2023)
Surgical prophylaxis
- IV: 500mg, as a single dose
(STG, Adult 2019)
Prophylactic treatment for diphtheria contacts
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (tab, sus, cap): 500mg on day 1; THEN 250mg for 4 days
(STG, Paed. 2017)
Azithromycin is commonly used as an alternative for patients with severe penicillin allergy
Indications and dosages registered in other jurisdictions
Community acquired pneumonia - severe (additional agent required)
- IV: 500mg, as an infusion, dly; Minimum duration: 2 days
THEN - Oral (tab, cap, sus): 500mg, dly; Treatment duration: 10 days
Bronchitis
Community-acquired pneumonia
Sinusitis
Pharyngitis
Tonsillitis
- Oral (sus, cap, tab): 500mg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
-
Oral (PR gra): 2g as a single dose
Otitis media
Skin and soft tissue infections
- Oral (sus, cap, tab): 500mg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
Uncomplicated genital infection (Chlamydia trachomatis)
- Oral (sus, cap, tab): 1g, as a single dose
Uncomplicated genital infection (Neisseria gonorrhoeae) (additional agents required)
- Oral (sus, cap, tab): 1-2g, as a single dose
Pelvic inflammatory disease (additional agent required)
- IV: 500mg, as an infusion, dly, for minimum duration of 1-2 days
THEN - Oral (tab, cap, sus): 250mg, dly; Max duration: 7 days
See additional prescribing points
Paediatric dosage
Paed. forms avail. in SA and covered in this monograph: sus, tab
Paed. dosages below include:
- General dosing range
- South African Standard Treatment Guidelines indications and dosages
- Indications and dosages registered in other jurisdictions
Infections causes by: Gram-positive and Gram-negative aerobic cocci (excluding enterococci and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus spp.); Some Gram-negative bacilli (including Haemophilus spp., Legionella and B pertussis; Others, including: M. pneumoniae, T. pallidum, Chlamydia spp., Clostridium spp., B. bergdorferi
General dosing range
- Oral (sus): 5-12mg/kg, dly
- IV: 10mg/kg/day, dly
See additional prescribing points for administration directions
Specific doses based on individual indications
Please note that the dosages below should be used in combination with regional guidelines, taking into account local antibiotic sensitivities
South African Standard Treatment Guidelines indications and dosages
Mild infection in patients with penicillin allergy
Boil
- Severe penicillin allergy
Abscess
- Severe penicillin allergy
Impetigo
- Severe penicillin allergy
Acute eczema with secondary infection
- Severe penicillin allergy
Measles (with otitis media)
- Severe penicillin allergy
Measles (with pneumonia)
- Severe penicillin allergy
Pneumonia (non-severe)
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (sus, tab): 10mg/kg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
(STG, Paed. 2017; PHC 2020)
Tonsillitis
- Severe penicillin allergy
Pharyngitis
- Severe penicillin allergy
Older than 3 years
- Oral (sus): ≤35kg: 10mg/kg/day; >35kg: 500mg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
(STG, PHC 2020)
Pertussis
Pertussis contacts
Younger than 6 months
- Oral (sus): 10mg/kg, dly; Treatment duration: 5 days
(STG, Paed. 2017)
6 months and older
- Oral (sus, tab, cap): 10mg/kg on day 1; Max: 500mg/24hrs; THEN 5mg/kg for 4 days; Max: 250mg/24hrs
(STG, Paed. 2017)
Mycoplasma pneumonia and other atypical pneumonias - severe
- IV: 10mg/kg, dly for 2 days
THEN - Oral (sus, tab, cap): 5mg/kg, dly for 3 days
OR - Oral (sus, tab, cap): 5mg/kg, dly; Treatment duration: 5 days
(STG Paed. 2023)
Persistent diarrhoea from Campylobacter
Cellulitis
- Severe penicillin allergy
Erysipelas
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (sus, tab, cap): 10mg/kg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
(STG, Paed. 2017; PHC 2020)
Peptic ulcer for H. Pylori eradication (Additional agent required)
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (sus, tab, cap): 10mg/kg, dly; Treatment duration: 5 days
(STG, Paed. 2017)
Tick bite fever - mild to moderate
- Oral (sus): <45kg: 10mg/kg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
(STG, PHC 2023)
- Unable to take oral medication
- IV: 10mg/kg, dly; Treatment duration: 5 days
(STG, Paed. 2017)
Prophylaxis for rheumatic fever
- Severe penicillin allergy
Post splenectomy
- Severe penicillin allergy
Younger than 11 years
- Oral (sus, tab, cap): 10mg/kg/day, 3 times weekly
11 years and older
- Oral (sus, tab, cap): 250mg, dly
(STG, Paed. 2017; PHC 2020)
Diphtheria
- Severe penicillin allergy
- IV/Oral (sus, tab, cap): 10mg/kg, dly
(STG, Paed. 2017)
Prophylactic treatment for diphtheria contacts
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (sus, tab, cap): 10mg/kg on day 1; THEN 5mg/kg, dly for 4 days
(STG, Paed. 2017)
Mycobacterium Avium Complex (MAC) infection - if currently on efavirenz (Additional agent required)
- Oral (sus): 10mg/kg, dly
(STG, Paed. 2017)
Dental abscess
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (sus, tab): <18kg: 10mg/kg/dose, dly; >35kg: 500mg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
(STG, Paed. 2023)
Acute rheumatic fever - eradication of streptococci in throat
- Severe penicillin allergy
Otitis externa
- Severe penicillin allergy
Acute otitis media
- Severe penicillin allergy
Acute bacterial sinusitis
- Severe penicillin allergy
Human bites (Additional agent required)
- Severe penicillin allergy
Animal bites (Additional agent required)
- Severe penicillin allergy
- Oral (sus): ≤35kg: 10mg/kg, dly; >35kg: 500mg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
(STG, PHC 2020)
Sexually transmitted infections prophylaxis (Additional agent required)
- Oral (sus): <45kg: 20mg/kg, single dose and refer; ≥45kg: 1g, as a single dose and refer
(STG, PHC 2020)
Bronchiectasis
- Chemoprophylaxis
- Oral (sus, tab): 5mg/kg, dly for 3 alternate days per week; Treatment duration: 3 months (Repeat after 6 months)
(STG, Paed. 2023)
Azithromycin is commonly used as an alternative for patients with severe penicillin allergy
Indications and dosages registered in other jurisdictions
Bronchitis
Community-acquired pneumonia
Sinusitis
Pharyngitis
Tonsillitis
- Oral (sus): <45kg: 10mg/kg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
- Oral (sus, cap, tab): ≥45kg: 500mg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
Older than 12 years
-
Oral (PR gra): See adult dosage
Otitis media
Skin and soft tissue infections
- Oral (sus): <45kg: 10mg/kg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
- Oral (sus, cap, tab): ≥45kg: 500mg, dly; Treatment duration: 3 days
Uncomplicated genital infection (Chlamydia trachomatis)
- Oral (sus, cap, tab): ≥45kg: 1g, as a single dose
Uncomplicated genital infection (Neisseria gonorrhoeae) (additional agents required)
- Oral (sus, cap, tab): ≥45kg: 1-2g, as a single dose
Suspension recommended for children <45kg
The total dose in children >1 year is 30mg/kg administered as 10mg/kg once daily for 3 days, or over a period of 5 days starting with a single dose of 10mg/kg on the first day, followed by doses of 5mg/kg per day for the following 4 days
See additional prescribing points
Special populations
Pregnancy
- Caution
- There are no adequate data from the use of azithromycin in pregnant women. In reproduction toxicity studies in animals, azithromycin was shown to pass the placenta, but no teratogenic effects were observed. The safety of azithromycin has not been confirmed with regard to the use of the active substance during pregnancy. Therefore, azithromycin should only be used during pregnancy if definitely indicated
Breastfeeding
- Caution; not recommended
- Azithromycin is excreted in breast milk. Because of the long half-life, accumulation in the milk is possible. Information available from published literature indicates that, in short-term use, this does not lead to clinically relevant quantities in the milk. No serious side effects have been observed by azithromycin in breast-fed children. A decision should be taken whether breastfeeding is discontinued or that treatment with azithromycin is discontinued/initiated or not, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding for the child and the benefit of treatment for the woman
Renal Impairment
- Mild to moderate (GFR 10-80 ml/min): No dose adjustment recommended
- Severe (GFR <10 ml/min): Caution; no dose adjustment recommended
An increase of 33% of systemic exposure to azithromycin was observed
Hepatic Impairment
Elderly
Porphyria Information
Drugs in Sport
- Permitted - No warnings
Adverse reactions
Central Nervous System Disorders
- Nervousness
- Agitation
- Aggression
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Paraesthesia
- Hypoestheia
- Somnolence
- Insomnia
- Syncope
- Seizures
- Psychomotor hyperactivity
- Myasthenia gravis
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Depersonalisation
- Delirium
- Hallucination
Cardiovascular Disorders
- Palpitations
- Torsades de pointes
- Arrhythmia
- Ventricular tachycardia
- Hypotension
- Prolonged QT interval
- Chest pain
- Oedema
- Hot flush
Respiratory Disorders
- Pneumonia
- Respiratory disorder
- Rhinitis
- Pharyngitis
- Dyspnoea
- Epistaxis
Gastrointestinal Disorders
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pseudomembranous coliti
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal distension
- Nausea and vomiting
- Flatulence
- Eructation
- Dyspepsia
- Gastritis
- Dysphagia (sus, tab)
- Gastroenteritis
- Constipation
- Pancreatitis
- Tongue discolouration
- Dry mouth
- Mouth ulceration
- Salivary hypersecretion
Hepatobiliary Disorders
- Hepatic failure
- Hepatic necrosis
- Cholestatic jaundice
- Hepatitis
- Abnormal hepatic function
- Increased aspartate aminotransferase
- Increased alanine aminotransferase
- Increased alkaline phosphatase
- Increased serum bilirubin
Genitourinary Disorders
- Acute renal failure
- Interstitial nephritis
- Dysuria
- Renal pain
- Increased serum urea
- Increased serum creatinine
- Vaginal infection
- Metrorrhagia
- Testicular disorder
Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders
- Anorexia
- Abnormal serum potassium
- Decreased blood bicarbonate
- Increased chloride
- Increased glucose
- Abnormal sodium bicarbonate
Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Arthralgia
- Osteoarthritis
- Myalgia
- Back pain
- Neck pain
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
- Pruritus
- Rash
- Steven-Johnson syndrome
- Photosensitivity reaction
- Urticaria
- Dermatitis
- Dry skin
- Hyperhidrosis
- Toxic epidermal necrolysis
- Erythema multiforme
- Acute Generalised Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP)
- Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS)
- Pain and inflammation on the local injection site (inj)
Immune, Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders
- Decreased lymphocyte count
- Increased eosinophil count
- Leukopenia
- Neutropenia
- Eosinophilia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Increased basophils
- Increased monocytes
- Increased neutrophils
- Increased platelets
- Decreased haematocrit
- Haemolytic anaemia
- Candidiasis, including oral candidiasis
- Fungal infection
- Bacterial infection
- Angioedema
- Hypersensivity reactions
- Anaphylactic reactions
- Anaphylactic shock
- Fever
Sensory Disorders
- Visual impairment
- Blurred vision
- Parosmia
- Deafness
- Impaired hearing
- Ear disorder
- Tinnitis
- Vertigo
- Anosmia
- Ageusia
- Dysgeusia
Others
- Face oedema
- Pain
- Post procedural complication
Interactions
- QT prolonging agents
- Antiarrhythmics (Classes IA and III)
- Terfenadine
- P-glycoprotein substrates
- Digoxin
- Colchicine
- Zidovudine
- Ergot derivatives
- Ergotamine
- Coumarin-type oral anticoagulants
- Ciclosporin
- Fluconazole
- Nelfinavir
- Antacids
- Astemizole
- Alfentanil
- Atorvastatin
- Statins
- Indinavir
- Rifabutin
- Theophylline
- Triazolam
- Terfenadine
- Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole
Monitoring
None routine. Specific cases may require
- Hepatic function
- Full blood count with differential
Prescribing points
Tablet 250mg, Tablet 500mg, Suspension 200mg/5ml - EML (Primary)
Injection 500mg - EML (Hospital)
Dosing considerations
- Tab: Azithromycin tablets can be administered with or without food
- Cap: Azithromycin capsules should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food
- PR gra: Patients should take azithromycin prolonged-release granules on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours following a meal). In the unlikely event that a patient vomits within 5 minutes of administration of the granules, a second dose should be taken
Administration directions
- Do not administer as IM or IV bolus
- IV infusion: Reconstitute one vial (500mg) with 4.8ml sterile water. To provide azithromycin at a concentration of 1.0 or 2.0 mg/ml, transfer 5 ml of the 100 mg/ml azithromycin solution to the appropriate amount of any of the diluents: dilute reconstituted solution with 500ml diluent (1mg/ml) OR dilute reconstituted solution with 250ml diluent (2mg/ml); Infusion rate: 1mg/ml solution over 3 hours or 2mg/ml solution over 1 hour; Diluents include: 0.9% sodium chloride, 0.45% sodium chloride and 5% dextrose in water, Lactated Ringer's solution, 5% dextrose in 0.3% sodium chloride, 5% dextrose in 0.45% sodium chloride
- PR gra: Add 60ml water and shake well
- Sus: Add 9ml water to the 15ml (600mg) bottle of azithromycin for a 200mg/5ml solution; OR add 15ml water to a 30ml (1200mg) azithromycin bottle for a 200mg/5ml solution. Discard after 5 days
Mechanism of action
Azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic belonging to the azalide group, suppresses bacterial protein synthesis by means of binding to the 50s subunit of the ribosome, inhibiting peptide translocation.
Spectrum of activity: Gram-positive and Gram-negative aerobic cocci (excluding enterococci and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus spp.); Some Gram-negative bacilli (including Haemophilus spp., Legionella and B pertussis); Others, including: M. pneumoniae, T. pallidum, Chlamydia spp., Clostridium spp., B. bergdorferi
Dosage forms
- Granules
- Suspension
- Injection
- Capsule
- Tablet
- Film-coated tablet
- Powder for injection
Formulation
Capsule 250mg
- Azimax (Pharmascript)
- Clamelle (Strides Pharma SA)
- Varimax (Dezzo Trading)
Tablet 250mg
- Jubazi (LeBasi Pharm)
- Zithrolide (LeBasi Pharm)
Tablet 500mg
- Apex-Azithromycin (Camox)
- Aspen Azithromycin (Pharmacare)
- Austell-Azithromycin (Camox)
- Azimax Forte (Pharmascript)
- Azithromycin Biotech (Biotech Laboratories)
- Azithromycin New Formulation Aspen (Pharmacare Limited)
- Azithromycin Unicorn Fct (Unicorn)
- Azithromycin Zydus (Zydus)
- Binozyt (Sandoz SA) FCT
- Cipla Azithromycin (Cipla)
- Jubazi (LeBasi)
- Sandoz Azithromycin (Sandoz SA)
- Ultreon (Pfizer) originator (Discontinued - 19 Oct 2018)
- Varimax (Dezzo Trading)
- Zeemide (Brimpharm)
- Zimol 500 (Strides Pharma SA)
- Zithract (Actor Pharma)
- Zithrogen (Xixia Pharm)
- Zithrolide (LeBasi Pharm)
- Zithromax (Pfizer) originator
Suspension (per 5ml) 200mg
- Austell Azithromycin (Austell)
- Azithromycin S Aspen (Pharmacare)
- Azithromycin S Biotech (Biotech Laboratories)
- Azrasite 200mg/5ml (Ruby Pharmaceuticals)
- Novazith Suspension (Novagen Pharma)
- Zatyp Oral Suspension (Aurogen South Africa)
- Zithromax (Pfizer) originator
Injection (per vial) 500mg
- Cipla Azithromycin (Cipla)
- Zithromax (Pfizer) originator
Granules (per bottle) 2g
- Zithromax one (Pfizer) originator
References
1. SAMF_12th Edition_Page 290 2. SmPC: Azithromycin 250 mg Tablets, Pfizer Limited; Last updated on eMC: 31 May 2018; Downloaded online 13/08/2018 [https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/9205/smpc] 3. SmPC: Zithromax 200 mg in 5 ml suspension, Pfizer Limited; Last updated on eMC: 02 Mar 2018; Downloaded online 13/08/2018 [https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/9206/smpc] 4. SmPC: Zedbac 500 mg powder for solution for infusion, Aspire Pharma Ltd; Last updated on eMC: 29 Jun 2018; Downloaded online 13/08/2018 [https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1276/smpc] 5. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B0xnChtF7vduRE9jQzZBUVhQVVU (19/04/2013_Sandoz_Azithromycin_500mg tab) 6. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B0xnChtF7vduRE9jQzZBUVhQVVU (08/2011_Cipla_Azithromycin_500_inj) 7. PI: Ultreon 500mg tablets, Pfizer Laboratories. Date of last approved PI: 7 April 2006 [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B0xnChtF7vduRE9jQzZBUVhQ] 8. PI: Zithromax one (PR Granules for oral sus), Pfizer Laboratories. Date of last approved PI: 26 June 2015 [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B0xnChtF7vduRE9jQzZBUVhQ] 9. PI: Zithromax IV (Powder for sol for inj) and Zithromax 500mg tablets, Pfizer Laboratories (Pty) Ltd. Date of approved PI: 26 Jun 2015 [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jqf-0IGqOHnirhNXThNVDmJUo6WCSyNu] 10. PI: Zithromax Suspension 200mg/5ml, Pfizer Laboratories (Pty) Ltd. Date of approved PI: 16 June 2015 [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jqf-0IGqOHnirhNXThNVDmJUo6WCSyNu] 11. Sanford Guide Web Edition: Azithromycin; Downloaded online 3 Aug 2020 [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jqf-0IGqOHnirhNXThNVDmJUo6WCSyNun] 12. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B0xnChtF7vduRE9jQzZBUVhQVVU (14/02/2006_Pharmascript_Azimax_250mg_caps) 13. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B0xnChtF7vduRE9jQzZBUVhQVVU (23/9/2005_Austell-Azithromycin_500mg_tab) 14. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B0xnChtF7vduRE9jQzZBUVhQVVU (08/09/2005_Mylan_Zithrogen_250, 500mg_fct ) 15. Standard treatment guidelines and essential medicines list for South Africa, Hospital level, Paediatrics, 2017 16. U2D: Azithromycin (systemic): Drug information; Uptodate; Downloaded online 13/08/2018 [https://www.uptodate.com/contents/azithromycin-systemic-drug-information] 17. NAPOS: The Drug Database for Acute Porphyria: Azithromycin; Accessed online 31 Aug 2020 [http://www.drugs-porphyria.org/languages/UnitedKingdom/s3.php?atc_code=J01FA10&l=gbr] 18. South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport: Zithromax Tablets, Suspension, PR Granules for Susp, Infusion; Accessed online 31 Aug 2020 [http://www.drugfreesport.org.za/online-medication-check/] 19. SmPC: Zithromax 200 mg in 5 ml suspension, Pfizer Limited; Last updated on eMC: 30 May 2019; Downloaded online 31 Aug 2020 [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jqf-0IGqOHnirhNXThNVDmJUo6WCSyNu] 20. SmPC: Zedbac 500mg powder for solution for infusion, Aspire Pharma Ltd; Last updated on eMC: 1 Jun 2020; Downloaded online 31 Aug 2020 [https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1276/smpc] 21. SmPC: Zithromax 250 mg Capsules, Pfizer Limited; Last updated on eMC: 30 May 2019; Downloaded online 31 Aug 2020 [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jqf-0IGqOHnirhNXThNVDmJUo6WCSyNu] 22. Department of Health, South Africa. Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Hospital Level, Adults, 2019 Edition [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jqf-0IGqOHnirhNXThNVDmJUo6WCSyNu] 23. Department of Health, South Africa. Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Hospital Level, Paediatric, 2017 Edition [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jqf-0IGqOHnirhNXThNVDmJUo6WCSyNu] 24. Department of Health, South Africa. Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Hospital Level, Primary Health Care, 2018 Edition [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jqf-0IGqOHnirhNXThNVDmJUo6WCSyNu] 25. SmPC: Azithromycin 500 mg Tablets, Sandoz Limited; Last updated on eMC: 25 Aug 2020; Downloaded online 31 Aug 2020 [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jqf-0IGqOHnirhNXThNVDmJUo6WCSyNu] 26. SmPC: Azithromycin 200mg/5ml Powder for Oral Suspension, Sandoz Limited: Last updated on eMC: 28 Aug 2020 Download online 8 September 2020 [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1jqf-0IGqOHnirhNXThNVDmJUo6WCSyNu] 27. PI: ZITHROMAX 500 mg Tablets and IV Powder for solution for infusion, Pfizer Laboratories (Pty) Ltd. Date of first authorisation: 17 June 1997/ 25 April 2003; Date of revision of text: 09 July 2019 [https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1c3_Ah8sere3DtPDQjdy9uxqviNE82g_f] 28. Department of Health, South Africa. Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Hospital Level, Paediatric, 2023 Edition [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1dY9_4So1_ctYjHRttam8_y2x2tjFBG3Q] 29. Department of Health, South Africa. Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Hospital Level, Primary Health Care, 2023 Edition [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1rDWAYDt7XMDTq230FxVUoKhgZ0IZLoSp] GHANA REFERENCES GH1. Ministry of Health Ghana National Drugs Programme (GNDP) Standard Treatment Guidelines, 7th Edition, 2017 [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EQKbcrtqOU9qM1DpWgsS35ERYS_WkO_w] GH2. Ministry of Health Ghana National Drugs Programme (GNDP) Essential Medicines List, 7th Edition, 2017 [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EQKbcrtqOU9qM1DpWgsS35ERYS_WkO_w]
Brands & products
42 products · stale NAPPI snapshot · refreshed 5/28/2026 · 159 days oldsuspensionGeneric· 16 products
from R12.51/unit| Product | Strength | Pack | Sched | SEP | Unit | Disp fee | NAPPI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Novazith Suspension | 200 mg/5ml | 30 | S4 | R375.20 | R12.51 | R128.43 | 3003809002 |
| Ceptomax 200 Mg/5 Ml | - ml | 30 | S4 | R394.97 | R13.17 | R133.87 | 3007985001 |
| Zatyp Oral Suspension | 200 mg/5ml | 30 | S4 | R399.28 | R13.31 | R135.05 | 3002555002 |
| Zithromax | 200 mg/5ml | 30 | S4 | R401.03 | R13.37 | R135.53 | 830720014 |
| Azrasite 200Mg/5Ml | 200 mg/5ml | 30 | S4 | R405.77 | R13.53 | R136.84 | 3003002002 |
| Azithromycin S Aspen | 200 mg/5ml | 30 | S4 | R406.38 | R13.55 | R137.00 | 3002136002 |
| Novazith Suspension | 200 mg/5ml | 15 | S4 | R204.99 | R13.67 | R81.60 | 3003809001 |
| Austell Azithromycin 200Mg/5Ml | 200 mg/5ml | 30 | S4 | R411.22 | R13.71 | R138.34 | 3001054002 |
| Azithromycin S Biotech | 200 mg/5ml | 30 | S4 | R428.28 | R14.28 | R143.03 | 3004232002 |
| Ceptomax 200 Mg/5 Ml | - ml | 15 | S4 | R214.87 | R14.32 | R84.32 | 3007985002 |
| Zatyp Oral Suspension | 200 mg/5ml | 15 | S4 | R217.02 | R14.47 | R84.91 | 3002555001 |
| Zithromax | 200 mg/5ml | 15 | S4 | R217.90 | R14.53 | R85.15 | 830720006 |
| Azrasite 200Mg/5Ml | 200 mg/5ml | 15 | S4 | R220.27 | R14.68 | R85.81 | 3003002001 |
| Azithromycin S Aspen | 200 mg/5ml | 15 | S4 | R220.58 | R14.71 | R85.89 | 3002136001 |
| Austell Azithromycin 200Mg/5Ml | 200 mg/5ml | 15 | S4 | R223.00 | R14.87 | R86.56 | 3001054001 |
| Azithromycin S Biotech | 200 mg/5ml | 15 | S4 | R231.53 | R15.44 | R88.90 | 3004232001 |
tabletGeneric· 19 products
from R37.46/unit| Product | Strength | Pack | Sched | SEP | Unit | Disp fee | NAPPI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zithrolide | 250 mg | 6 | S4 | R224.75 | R37.46 | R87.04 | 721676001 |
| Zithract | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R221.20 | R73.73 | R86.06 | 3003355001 |
| Azithromycin 500 Biotech | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R221.35 | R73.78 | R86.10 | 3002137002 |
| Azithromycin unicorn | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R223.75 | R74.58 | R86.76 | 723065001 |
| Zithrolide | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R224.75 | R74.92 | R87.04 | 721677001 |
| Azrotrin | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R224.77 | R74.92 | R87.04 | 715934001 |
| Zithromax | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R226.80 | R75.60 | R87.60 | 832278009 |
| Azithromycin 500 Biotech | 500 mg | 2 | S4 | R156.03 | R78.02 | R65.87 | 3002137001 |
| Sandoz azithromycin | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R234.35 | R78.12 | R89.68 | 707852001 |
| Azero | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R235.68 | R78.56 | R90.04 | 718711001 |
| Azithromycin New Formulation Aspen | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R236.06 | R78.69 | R90.15 | 3002135001 |
| Austell azithromycin | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R236.06 | R78.69 | R90.15 | 717052001 |
| Cipla azithromycin | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R236.61 | R78.87 | R90.30 | 719156001 |
| Azrotrin | 500 mg | 2 | S4 | R158.55 | R79.27 | R66.74 | 715934002 |
| Zithrogen | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R239.86 | R79.95 | R91.19 | 705975001 |
| Zeemide 500 Mg | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R255.98 | R85.33 | R95.63 | 717181001 |
| Aspen azithromycin | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R262.53 | R87.51 | R97.43 | 705100001 |
| Ultreon 500Mg | 500 mg | 2 | S4 | R177.69 | R88.85 | R73.36 | 706370001 |
| Binozyt | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R274.58 | R91.53 | R100.75 | 707552001 |
capsuleGeneric· 2 products
from R41.74/unit| Product | Strength | Pack | Sched | SEP | Unit | Disp fee | NAPPI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Varimax | 250 mg | 6 | S4 | R250.45 | R41.74 | R94.11 | 717496001 |
| Clamelle | 250 mg | 4 | S4 | R198.25 | R49.56 | R80.47 | 712447001 |
injectionGeneric· 1 product
from R72.02/unit| Product | Strength | Pack | Sched | SEP | Unit | Disp fee | NAPPI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zithromax iv pow f/sol f/infusion | 500 mg | 5 | S4 | R360.08 | R72.02 | R124.27 | 702721001 |
FctGeneric· 2 products
from R77.38/unit| Product | Strength | Pack | Sched | SEP | Unit | Disp fee | NAPPI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zatyp Tablets | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R232.14 | R77.38 | R89.07 | 3009653001 |
| Azimax Forte | 500 mg | 3 | S4 | R235.13 | R78.38 | R89.89 | 3000849001 |
infusionGeneric· 1 product
from R79.81/unit| Product | Strength | Pack | Sched | SEP | Unit | Disp fee | NAPPI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cipla azithromycin powder for solution v | 500 mg | 5 | S4 | R399.06 | R79.81 | R134.99 | 716738001 |
GraGeneric· 1 product
from R351.47/unit| Product | Strength | Pack | Sched | SEP | Unit | Disp fee | NAPPI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zithromax One | 2 g | 1 | S4 | R351.47 | R351.47 | R121.90 | 710314001 |
- Apex-Azithromycin
- Aspen Azithromycin
- Austell-Azithromycin
- Azimax
- Azimax Forte
- Azithromycin Biotech
- Azithromycin New Formulation Aspen
- Azithromycin Unicorn
- Azithromycin S Aspen
- Azithromycin Zydus
- Azrasite
- Cipla Azithromycin
- Clamelle
- Jubazi
- Novazith
- Sandoz Azithromycin
- Ultreon
- Verimax
- Zatyp Oral Suspension
- Zeemide
- Zimol
- Zithract
- Zithrolide
- Zithrogen
- Zithromax
Medical aid coverage
data not yet integrated- Comprehensive Series—
- Executive Plan—
- KeyCare Series—
- Priority Series—
- Saver Series—
Formulary scraper pending — coverage tier, co-pay and authorisation requirements will appear here once data is ingested.
- BonClassic—
- BonComprehensive—
- BonEssential—
- BonFit Select—
- BonSave—
- BonStart—
Formulary scraper pending — coverage tier, co-pay and authorisation requirements will appear here once data is ingested.
- Beryl—
- Emerald—
- Onyx—
- Ruby—
- Sapphire—
- Tanzanite One—
Formulary scraper pending — coverage tier, co-pay and authorisation requirements will appear here once data is ingested.
- Aquarium Option—
- Efficiency Option—
- Marine Option—
Formulary scraper pending — coverage tier, co-pay and authorisation requirements will appear here once data is ingested.
Interacts with 16 known drugs
Check against other drugs →Cited in 60+ documents
- GuidelinesTreatment of Partners10×
- GuidelinesAntimicrobial Medicines8×
- GuidelinesReferences8×
- GuidelinesReferences - Gynaecology8×
- GuidelinesAzithromycin (Age 2 months up to 5 years)6×
- GuidelinesSexually Transmitted Infections5×
- GuidelinesAcid-Base Disorders4×
- GuidelinesReferences - Alimentary Tract4×
- GuidelinesReferences - Infections and Related Conditions4×
- GuidelinesReferences - Kidney and Urological Disorders4×
- GuidelinesReferences - Sexually Transmitted Infections4×
- GuidelinesRheumatic Fever, Acute4×
- GuidelinesTreatment of More than One STI Syndrome4×
- GuidelinesAcute Upper Respiratory Tract Infection3×
- GuidelinesAllergies To Penicillins3×
- GuidelinesDiphtheria3×
- GuidelinesPelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)3×
- GuidelinesPelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)3×
- GuidelinesPneumonia3×
- GuidelinesPost Exposure Prophylaxis, Rape and Sexual Assault3×
- GuidelinesPreterm Labour (PTL) and Preterm Prelabour Rupture of Membranes (PPROM)3×
- GuidelinesReferences - Surgical Antibiotic Prophylaxis3×
- GuidelinesTreatment: Available Therapies3×
- GuidelinesAnimal Bites2×
- GuidelinesBoil, Abscess2×
- GuidelinesCellulitis2×
- GuidelinesDental Abscess2×
- GuidelinesDepartment of Paediatrics and Child Health2×
- GuidelinesDepartment of Surgery2×
- GuidelinesEczema, Acute, Moist or Weeping2×
- GuidelinesHuman Bites2×
- GuidelinesImpetigo2×
- GuidelinesInfectious Diarrhoea2×
- GuidelinesLower Abdominal Pain (LAP)2×
- GuidelinesMale Urethritis Syndrome (MUS)2×
- GuidelinesManagement of Adult Cases of Alleged Sexual Assault: Rapid Approach2×
- GuidelinesManagement of Alleged Sexual Offences in Children2×
- GuidelinesManagement of Paediatric Cases of Alleged Sexual Assault - Rapid Approach2×
- GuidelinesOtitis Externa2×
- GuidelinesOtitis Media, Acute2×
- GuidelinesPertussis2×
- GuidelinesPneumonia & Tuberculosis2×
- GuidelinesPreterm Labour (PTL) and Preterm Prelabour Rupture of Membranes (PPROM)2×
- GuidelinesProtocol for the Acute Management of Spontaneous Preterm Labour at Tygerberg Hospital2×
- GuidelinesProtocol for the Acute Management of Spontaneous Preterm Prelabour Rupture for Membranes2×
- GuidelinesReferences - Cardiovascular Conditions2×
- GuidelinesReferences - Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders2×
- GuidelinesReferences - Musculoskeletal System2×
- GuidelinesReferences - Obstetrics2×
- GuidelinesReferences - SATS Asthma2×
- GuidelinesReferences - Systemic and Healthcare-Associated Infections2×
- GuidelinesRheumatic Heart Disease2×
- GuidelinesScrotal Swelling (SSW)2×
- GuidelinesSexually Transmitted Infections2×
- GuidelinesSinusitis, Acute, Bacterial2×
- GuidelinesSurgical Antibiotic Prophylaxis2×
- GuidelinesTick Bite Fever2×
- GuidelinesTick Bite Fever2×
- GuidelinesTonsillitis And Pharyngitis2×
- GuidelinesTravellers’ Diarrhoea2×