Azithromycin
General Information
Macrolide
Tablets and injection are Restricted formulary antimicrobials: For details see OUH netFormulary
Liquid is a Formulary antimicrobial: Use in accordance with Trust guidelines.
AWaRe antibiotic classification: 'Watch'. Use as per guidelines.
For all information regarding interactions, contraception, pregnancy and breastfeeding and additional information, see BNF.
Standard Dose
Standard Dose
| Oral dose | Intravenous dose | |
| Standard dose* | 500mg OD | 500mg OD |
*Higher doses may be indicated for certain indications. Consult product literature or the BNF.
Renal and hepatic impairment
Renal impairment
- No dose adjustment required
- In patients with a GFR less than 10 mL/min use with caution and monitor for side effects.
Hepatic impairment
- No dose adjustment required
- Severe impairment = Use with caution and monitor for side effects.
- Abnormal liver function, hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice, hepatic necrosis, and hepatic failure have been reported, some of which have resulted in death. Discontinue azithromycin immediately if signs and symptoms of hepatitis occur.
MHRA Drug Safety Updates
MHRA Drug Safety Update (March 2022):
Azithromycin has an increased risk of causing cardiovascular events when used with Hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine. Hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine: increased risk of cardiovascular events when used with macrolide antibiotics; reminder of psychiatric reactions
References
- Sandoz Limited. Azithromycin 500mg tablets summary of product characteristics. Electronic medicines compendium. Last revision of the text: 13/2/25. Accessed via: www.emc.medicines.org.uk [Accessed Feb 2026]
- Aspire Pharma Ltd. Zedbac 500mg powder for solution for infusion summary of product characteristics. Electronic medicines compendium. Last revision of the text: 22/6/22. Accessed via: www.emc.medicines.org.uk [Accessed Feb 2026]
- The Renal Drug Database. Azithromycin - last updated: 2024 Nov 18. Accessed via: https://renaldrugdatabase.com [Accessed Feb 2026]