azithromycin
Azithromycin is used to treat certain bacterial infections, such as bronchitis; pneumonia; sexually transmitted diseases (STD); and infections of the ears, lungs, sinuses, skin, throat, and reproductive organs. Azithromycin also is used to treat or prevent disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection [a type of lung infection that often affects people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)]. Azithromycin is in a class of medications called macrolide antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics such as azithromycin will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking azithromycin affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
According to the fact sheet, it is not known whether taking azithromycin can make it harder to get pregnant. If you have questions or concerns about fertility while using this medication, it is best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking azithromycin increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons. The fact sheet notes that most studies on azithromycin and similar antibiotics have not reported an increased chance of miscarriage. Any individual concerns should be reviewed with your healthcare provider.
Does taking azithromycin increase the risk of birth defects?
Birth defects occur in about 3 out of 100 births overall. A few studies have suggested azithromycin might increase the chance of some birth defects, but most studies have not found an increased chance when it is used during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider can help weigh this information in the context of your specific situation.
Can taking azithromycin during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
Azithromycin is not expected to increase the chance of other pregnancy-related problems, such as preterm delivery (birth before week 37) or low birth weight (less than about 2500 grams). Discuss any pregnancy-related questions with your healthcare provider.
Can taking azithromycin during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
The fact sheet references one study of over 8,000 children exposed to azithromycin or similar antibiotics during pregnancy that found no significant increased chance of ADHD or autism spectrum disorder. If you have concerns about your child's development, it is best to talk with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking azithromycin?
Azithromycin passes into breast milk in small amounts—less than what would be given to treat an infection in a child—and short-term use is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding according to the fact sheet. Some studies have suggested a possible increased chance of pyloric stenosis when azithromycin is taken in the first two weeks of breastfeeding, while others have not, and overall there is not enough information to know for sure; breastfed infants may also experience diarrhea or thrush. Talk with your healthcare provider about your individual situation and contact your baby's provider if you notice symptoms such as forceful vomiting, weight loss, fussiness, lethargy, or fewer wet diapers.
Source: National Library of Medicine
azithromycin