Azithromycin
A macrolide given once daily. First-line oral treatment for uncomplicated typhoid in Pakistan, including XDR typhoid.
Common brands in Pakistan: Azomax, Zithromax. Brand availability changes; check with your pharmacy.
On this page
Uses
Adult dose
| Indication | Dose |
|---|---|
| Typhoid (uncomplicated) | 1 g orally once daily for 7 days (or 1 g on day 1 then 500 mg daily for 6 days, per local protocol) |
| Dysentery | 500 mg once daily for 3 days, or 1 g single dose |
| Cholera | 1 g single dose |
| Atypical pneumonia | 500 mg once daily for 3 days |
| Chlamydia | 1 g single dose (doxycycline is preferred where possible) |
Children's dose
| Indication | Dose |
|---|---|
| Typhoid | 20 mg/kg once daily (max 1 g) for 7 days |
| Dysentery | 10–20 mg/kg once daily for 3 days |
| Cholera | 20 mg/kg single dose (max 1 g) |
| Whooping cough | 10 mg/kg once daily for 3 days (5 days in infants per protocol) |
Kidney and liver
- No adjustment for mild to moderate kidney impairment.
- Use with caution in liver disease.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Generally considered acceptable when benefits outweigh risks.
Side effects and cautions
- Nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain.
- QT prolongation: caution with other QT-prolonging drugs and low potassium or magnesium.
- Interactions with warfarin.
Frequently asked questions
What is the azithromycin dose for typhoid in adults?
Typically 1 g once daily for 7 days, following local XDR typhoid guidance.
What is the azithromycin dose for typhoid in children?
20 mg/kg once daily (maximum 1 g) for 7 days.
Used in these guides
Sources
Doses on this page are typical doses from the sources above. Always confirm with a current drug reference, the product leaflet and your hospital protocol, especially in children, pregnancy and kidney or liver disease.
For FCPS Part 1
Revising for FCPS Part 1? Azithromycin is covered in our textbook chapter Antibacterial drugs, with practice MCQs.