AZITHROMYCIN tablet, film coated

Azithromycin by

Drug Labeling and Warnings

Azithromycin by is a Prescription medication manufactured, distributed, or labeled by Vivimed Labs Limited, Wockhardt Limited, Vivimed Life Sciences Private Limited. Drug facts, warnings, and ingredients follow.

Drug Details [pdf]

  • 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

    Azithromycin tablets, USP are 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.

    1.2 Mycobacterial Infections

    Prophylaxis of Disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) Disease

    Azithromycin tablet, USP taken alone or in combination with rifabutin at its approved dose, is indicated for the prevention of disseminated MAC disease in persons with advanced HIV infection [see Dosage and Administration (2)].

    Treatment of Disseminated MAC Disease

    Azithromycin tablet, USP taken in combination with ethambutol, is indicated for the treatment of disseminated MAC infections in persons with advanced HIV infection [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) and Clinical Studies (14.1)].

    1.3 Usage

    To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of azithromycin and other antibacterial drugs, azithromycin should be used only to treat infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. Wh en 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.

  • 2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

    [see Indications and Usage (1)]

    Azithromycin tablets, USP may be taken with or without food. However, increased tolerability has been observed when tablets are taken with food.

    Azithromycin for oral suspension (single dose 1g packet) is not for pediatric use. For pediatric suspension see the prescribing information for azithromycin for oral suspension 100 mg/5 mL and 200 mg/5 mL bottles.

    2.2 Mycobacterial Infections

    Prevention of Disseminated MAC Infections

    The recommended dose of azithromycin for the prevention of disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) disease is: 1200 mg taken once weekly. This dose of azithromycin tablets, USP may be combined with the approved dosage regimen of rifabutin.

    Treatment of Disseminated MAC Infections

    Azithromycin should be taken at a daily dose of 600 mg, in combination with ethambutol at the recommended daily dose of 15 mg/kg. Other antimycobacterial drugs that have shown in vitro activity against MAC may be added to the regimen of azithromycin plus ethambutol at the discretion of the physician or health care provider.

  • 3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

    Azithromycin tablets 600 mg are supplied as white film-coated oval shaped biconvex tablets debossed with W962 on one side and other side plain containing anhydrous azithromycin 600 mg. These are packaged in bottles of 30 tablets.

  • 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

    4.1 Hypersensitivity

    Azithromycin tablets are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin, any macrolide, or ketolide drug.

    4.2 Hepatic Dysfunction

    Azithromycin tablets are contraindicated in patients with a history of cholestatic jaundice/hepatic dysfunction associated with prior use of azithromycin.

  • 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

    5.1 Hypersensitivity

    Serious allergic reactions, including angioedema, anaphylaxis, and dermatologic reactions including Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP), Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis, have been reported rarely in patients on azithromycin therapy. [see Contraindications (4.1)]

    Fatalities have been reported. Cases of Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) have also been reported. Despite initially successful symptomatic treatment of the allergic symptoms, when symptomatic therapy was discontinued, the allergic symptoms recurred soon thereafter in some patients without further azithromycin exposure. These patients required prolonged periods of observation and symptomatic treatment. The relationship of these episodes to the long tissue half-life of azithromycin and subsequent prolonged exposure to antigen is presently unknown.

    If an allergic reaction occurs, the drug should be discontinued and appropriate therapy should be instituted. Physicians should be aware that allergic symptoms may reappear when symptomatic therapy is discontinued.

    5.2 Hepatotoxicity

    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.

    5.3 Infantile Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis

    Following the use of azithromycin in neonates (treatment up to 42 days of life), IHPS has been reported. Direct parents and caregivers to contact their physician if vomiting or irritability with feeding occurs.

    5.4 QT Prolongation

    Prolonged cardiac repolarization and QT interval, imparting a risk of developing cardiac arrhythmia and torsades de pointes, have been seen with treatment with macrolides, including azithromycin. Cases of torsades de pointes have been spontaneously reported during postmarketing surveillance in patients receiving azithromycin. Providers should consider the risk of QT prolongation which can be fatal when weighing the risks and benefits of azithromycin for at-risk groups including:

    •   patients with known prolongation of the QT interval, a history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome, bradyarrhythmias or uncompensated heart failure
    •   patients on drugs known to prolong the QT interval
    •   patients with ongoing proarrhythmic conditions such as uncorrected hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, clinically significant bradycardia, and in patients receiving Class IA (quinidine, procainamide) or Class III (dofetilide, amiodarone, sotalol) antiarrhythmic agents.

    Elderly patients may be more susceptible to drug-associated effects on the QT interval.

    5.5 Clostridium difficile-Associated Diarrhea (CDAD)

    CDAD has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including azithromycin, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon, leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.

    C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin-producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antibacterial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.

    If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.

    5.6 Exacerbation of Myasthenia Gravis

    Exacerbations of symptoms of myasthenia gravis and new onset of myasthenic syndrome have been reported in patients receiving azithromycin therapy.

    5.8 Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria

    Prescribing azithromycin in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.

  • 6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

    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 adverse reactions were mild to moderate in severity and were reversible upon discontinuation of the drug. Approximately 0.7% of the patients from the multiple-dose clinical trials discontinued azithromycin therapy because of treatment-related adverse reactions. Serious adverse reactions included angioedema and cholestatic jaundice. 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 (14.1)]

    Multiple-dose regimen

    Overall, the most common adverse reactions in adult patients receiving a multiple-dose regimen of azithromycin were related to the gastrointestinal system with diarrhea/loose stools (5%), nausea (3%), and abdominal pain (3%) being the most frequently reported.

    No other adverse reactions occurred in patients on the multiple-dose regimen of azithromycin with a frequency greater than 1%. Adverse reactions that occurred with a frequency of 1% or less included the following:

    Cardiovascular: Palpitations and 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, photosensitivity, and angioedema.

    Chronic therapy with 1200 mg weekly regimen

    The nature of adverse reactions seen with the 1200 mg weekly dosing regimen for the prevention of Mycobacterium avium infection in severely immunocompromised HIV-infected patients were similar to those seen with short-term dosing regimens. [see Clinical Studies (14)]

    Chronic therapy with 600 mg daily regimen combined with ethambutol

    The nature of adverse reactions seen with the 600 mg daily dosing regimen for the treatment of Mycobacterium avium complex infection in severely immunocompromised HIV-infected patients were similar to those seen with short term dosing regimens. Five percent of patients experienced reversible hearing impairment in the pivotal clinical trial for the treatment of disseminated MAC in patients with AIDS. Hearing impairment has been reported with macrolide antibiotics, especially at higher doses. Other treatment-related adverse reactions occurring in >5% of subjects and seen at any time during a median of 87.5 days of therapy include: abdominal pain (14%), nausea (14%), vomiting (13%), diarrhea (12%), flatulence (5%), headache (5%), and abnormal vision (5%). Discontinuations from treatment due to laboratory abnormalities or adverse reactions considered related to study drug occurred in 8 of 88 (9.1%) of subjects.

    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%).

    6.2 Post-marketing 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 tongue discoloration.

    General: Asthenia, paresthesia, fatigue, malaise, and anaphylaxis

    Genitourinary: Interstitial nephritis, 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, and serious skin reactions including erythema multiforme, AGEP, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, and DRESS.

    Special Senses: Hearing disturbances including hearing loss, deafness, and/or tinnitus, and reports of taste/smell perversion and/or loss.

    6.3 Laboratory Abnormalities

    Significant abnormalities (irrespective of drug relationship) occurring during the clinical trials were reported as follows:

    •   With an incidence of 1 to 2%, elevated serum creatine phosphokinase, potassium, ALT (SGPT), GGT, and AST (SGOT).
    •   With an incidence of less than 1%, leukopenia, neutropenia, decreased platelet count, elevated serum alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, BUN, creatinine, blood glucose, LDH, and phosphate.

    When follow-up was provided, changes in laboratory tests appeared to be reversible.

    In multiple-dose clinical trials involving more than 3000 patients, 3 patients discontinued therapy because of treatment-related liver enzyme abnormalities and 1 because of a renal function abnormality.

    In a phase 1 drug interaction study performed in normal volunteers, 1 of 6 subjects given the combination of azithromycin and rifabutin, 1 of 7 given rifabutin alone, and 0 of 6 given azithromycin alone developed a clinically significant neutropenia (<500 cells/mm3).

    Laboratory abnormalities seen in clinical trials for the prevention of disseminated Mycobacterium avium disease in severely immunocompromised HIV-infected patients. [see Clinical Studies (14)]

    Chronic therapy (median duration: 87.5 days, range: 1 to 229 days) that resulted in laboratory abnormalities in >5% of subjects with normal baseline values in the pivotal trial for treatment of disseminated MAC in severely immunocompromised HIV-infected patients treated with azithromycin 600 mg daily in combination with ethambutol include: a reduction in absolute neutrophils to <50% of the lower limit of normal (10/52, 19%) and an increase to five times the upper limit of normal in alkaline phosphatase (3/35, 9%). These findings in subjects with normal baseline values are similar when compared to all subjects for analyses of neutrophil reductions (22/75, 29%) and elevated alkaline phosphatase (16/80, 20%). Causality of these laboratory abnormalities due to the use of study drug has not been established.

  • 7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

    7.1 Nelfinavir

    Co-administration 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 post-marketing 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 Interaction with Macrolides

    Interactions with the following drugs listed below have not been reported in clinical trials with azithromycin; however, no specific drug interaction studies have been performed to evaluate potential drug-drug interaction. However, drug interactions have been observed with other macrolide products. Until further data are developed regarding drug interactions when digoxin or phenytoin are used with azithromycin careful monitoring of patients is advised.

  • 8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

    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 levels (i.e., 200 mg/kg/day). These daily doses in rats and mice, based on body surface area, are estimated to be 3.2 and 1.6 times, respectively, an adult daily dose of 600 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 breast milk in small amounts. Caution should be exercised when azithromycin is administered to a nursing woman.

    8.4 Pediatric Use

    In controlled clinical studies, azithromycin has been administered to pediatric patients ranging in age from 6 months to 12 years. For information regarding the use of azithromycin for oral suspension in the treatment of pediatric patients, [see Indications and Usage (1) and Dosage and Administration (2)] of the prescribing information for azithromycin for oral suspension 100 mg/5 mL and 200 mg/5 mL bottles.

    HIV-Infected Pediatric Patients: The safety and efficacy of azithromycin for the prevention or treatment of MAC in HIV-infected children have not been established. Safety data are available for 72 children 5 months to 18 years of age (mean 7 years) who received azithromycin for treatment of opportunistic infections. The mean duration of therapy was 242 days (range 3 to 2004 days) at doses of <1 to 52 mg/kg/day (mean 12 mg/kg/day). Adverse reactions were similar to those observed in the adult population, most of which involved the gastrointestinal tract. Treatment-related reversible hearing impairment in children was observed in 4 subjects (5.6%). Two (2.8%) children prematurely discontinued treatment due to adverse reactions: one due to back pain and one due to abdominal pain, hot and cold flushes, dizziness, headache, and numbness. A third child discontinued due to a laboratory abnormality (eosinophilia). The protocols upon which these data are based specified a daily dose of 10 to 20 mg/kg/day (oral and/or IV) of azithromycin.

    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 responses 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 (5.4)]

    Azithromycin 600 mg tablets contain 2.9 mg of sodium per tablet.

    Geriatric Patients with Opportunistic Infections, Including (MAC) Disease: Safety data are available for 30 patients (65 to 94 years old) treated with azithromycin at doses >300 mg/day for a mean of 207 days. These patients were treated for a variety of opportunistic infections, including MAC. The adverse reactions were generally similar to that seen in younger patients, except for a higher incidence of adverse reactions relating to the gastrointestinal system and to reversible impairment of hearing. [see Dosage and Administration (2)]

  • 10 OVERDOSAGE

    Adverse reactions experienced in higher than recommended doses were similar to those seen at normal doses. In the event of overdosage, general symptomatic and supportive measures are indicated as required.

  • 11 DESCRIPTION

    Azithromycin tablets, USP contain the active ingredient azithromycin, a macrolide antibacterial drug, for oral administration. Azithromycin 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 is derived from erythromycin; however, it differs chemically from erythromycin in that a methyl-substituted nitrogen atom is incorporated into the lactone ring. Its molecular formula is C 38H72N2O12, and its molecular weight is 749. Azithromycin has the following structural formula:

    Structure

    Anhydrous azithromycin USP is a white amorphous powder with a molecular formula of C38H72N2O12 and a molecular weight of 749.

    Azithromycin tablet is supplied for oral administration as white, film-coated, oval shaped biconvex tablets containing anhydrous azithromycin 600 mg. In addition, each tablet contains the following inactive ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, corn starch, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium trisilicate, magnesium stearate, colloidal silicon dioxide, hydroxypropyl cellulose, sodium lauryl sulfate, and an aqueous film coat consisting of hypromellose, titanium dioxide and polyethylene glycol.

  • 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). Co-administration 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 co-administration of 500 mg, 1000 mg and 1500 mg azithromycin, respectively.

    12.3 Pharmacokinetics

    The pharmacokinetic parameters of azithromycin in plasma after dosing as per labeled recommendations in healthy young adults and asymptomatic HIV-positive adults (age 18 to 40 years old) are portrayed in the following chart:

    MEAN (CV%) PK PARAMETER

    aAUC 0-24 ; b0-last.

    DOSE/DOSAGE FORM
    (serum, except as indicated)
    Subjects
    Day No.
    Cmax
    (mcg/mL)
    Tmax
    (hr)
    C24
    (mcg/mL)
    AUC
    (mcghr/mL)
    T1/2
    (hr)
    Urinary Excretion
    (% of dose)
    500 mg/250 mg capsule
    12
    1
    0.41
    2.5
    0.05
    2.6a
    -
    4.5
    and 250 mg on Days 2 to 5
    12
    5
    0.24
    3.2
    0.05
    2.1a
    -
    6.5
    1200 mg/600 mg tablets
    12
    1
    0.66
    2.5
    0.074
    6.8b
    40
    -
    %CV
    (62%)
    (79%)
    (49%)
    (64%)
    (33%)
    600 mg tablet/day
    7
    1
    0.33
    2
    0.039
    2.4a
    %CV
    (25%)
    (50%)
    (36%)
    (19%)
    7
    22
    0.55
    2.1
    0.14
    5.8a
    84.5
    -
    %CV
    (18%)
    (52%)
    (26%)
    (25%)
    -
    600 mg tablet/day
    (leukocytes)
    7
    22
    252
    10.9
    146
    4763a
    82.8
    -
    %CV
    (49%)
    (28%)
    (33%)
    (42%)
    -
    -

    With a regimen of 500 mg on Day 1 and 250 mg/day on Days 2 to 5, Cmin and Cmax remained essentially unchanged from Day 2 through Day 5 of therapy. However, without a loading dose, azithromycin Cmin levels required 5 to 7 days to reach steady state.

    In asymptomatic HIV-positive adult subjects receiving 600 mg azithromycin tablets once daily for 22 days, steady state azithromycin serum levels were achieved by Day 15 of dosing.

    The high values in adults for apparent steady-state volume of distribution (31.1 L/kg) and plasma clearance (630 mL/min) suggest that the prolonged half-life is due to extensive uptake and subsequent release of drug from tissues.

    Absorption

    The 1 gram single-dose packet is bioequivalent to four 250 mg azithromycin capsule

    When the oral suspension of azithromycin was administered with food, the Cmax increased by 46% and the AUC by 14%.

    The absolute bioavailability of two 600 mg tablets was 34% (CV=56%). Administration of two 600 mg tablets with food increased Cmax by 31% (CV=43%) while the extent of absorption (AUC) was unchanged (mean ratio of AUCs=1; CV=55%).

    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 tissues in humans, 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 importance of these tissue concentration data is unknown.

    Azithromycin concentrates in phagocytes and fibroblasts as demonstrated by in vitro incubation techniques. Using such methodology, the ratio of intracellular to extracellular concentration was >30 after one hr of incubation. In vivo studies suggest that concentration in phagocytes may contribute to drug distribution to inflamed tissues.

    Following oral administration of a single 1200 mg dose (two 600 mg tablets), the mean maximum concentration in peripheral leukocytes was 140 mcg/mL. Concentration remained above 32 mcg/mL for approximately 60 hr. The mean half-lives for 6 males and 6 females were 34 hr and 57 hr, respectively. Leukocyte-to-plasma Cmax ratios for males and females were 258 (±77%) and 175 (±60%), respectively, and the AUC ratios were 804 (±31%) and 541 (±28%) respectively. The clinical relevance of these findings is unknown. Following oral administration of multiple daily doses of 600 mg (1 tablet/day) to asymptomatic HIV-positive adults, mean maximum concentration in peripheral leukocytes was 252 mcg/mL (±49%). Trough concentrations in peripheral leukocytes at steady-state averaged 146 mcg/mL (±33%). The mean leukocyte-to-serum Cmax ratio was 456 (±38%) and the mean leukocyte to serum AUC ratio was 816 (±31%). The clinical relevance of these findings is unknown.

    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 an average terminal half-life of 68 hr. 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 × 250 mg capsules), the mean Cmax and AUC0-120 increased by 5.1% and 4.2%, respectively, in subjects with 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 end-stage renal disease (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 on the basis of gender.

    Geriatric Patients

    Pharmacokinetic parameters in older volunteers (65 to 85 years old) were similar to those in younger volunteers (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

    For information regarding the pharmacokinetics of azithromycin for oral suspension in pediatric patients, see the prescribing information for azithromycin for oral suspension 100 mg/5 mL and 200 mg/5 mL bottles.

    Drug-drug Interactions

    Drug interaction studies were performed with azithromycin and other drugs likely to be co-administered. The effects of co-administration 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.

    Co-administration 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 co-administered with azithromycin.

    Co-administration 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 Co-administered Drugs in the Presence of Azithromycin

    *-90% Confidence interval not reported

    Co-administered
    Drug
    Dose of
    Co-administered
    Drug
    Dose of
    Azithromycin
    n
    Ratio (with/without
    azithromycin) of
    Co-administered
    Drug Pharmacokinetic
    Parameters (90% CI);
    No Effect = 1
    Mean Cmax
    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
    1,200 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
    1,200 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
    1,200 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
    1,200 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 BID ×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
    1,200 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
    1,200 mg/day orally
    for 14 days
    4
    1.31 (0.43 to 3.97)
    1.30 (0.69 to 2.43)
    Table 2. Drug Interactions: Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Azithromycin in the Presence of Co-administered Drugs. [see Drug Interactions (7.3)]

    * -90% Confidence interval not reported

    Co-administered
    Drug
    Dose of
    Co-administered
    Drug
    Dose of
    Azithromycin
    n
    Ratio (with/without
    co-administered drug) of
    Azithromycin Pharmacokinetic Parameters (90% CI);
    No Effect = 1
    Mean Cmax
    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
    1,200 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
    1,200 mg orally on day 9
    14
    2.36
    (1.77 to 3.15)
    2.12
    (1.80 to 2.50)

    12.4 Microbiology

    Mechanism of Action

    Azithromycin acts by binding to the 23S rRNA of the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis and impeding the assembly of the 50S ribosomal subunit.

    Resistance

    The most frequently encountered mechanism of resistance to azithromycin is modification of the 23S rRNA target, most often by methylation. Ribosomal modifications can determine cross resistance to other macrolides, lincosamides, and streptogramin B (MLSB phenotype). The mechanism of acquired mutational resistance in isolates of Mycobacterium avium complex (i.e., 23S rRNA genemutation) is the same for both clarithromycin and azithromycin.

    Antimicrobial Activity

    Azithromycin has been shown to be active against the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections. [see Indications and Usage (1)]

    Mycobacteria

        Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) consisting of:

            Mycobacterium avium

            Mycobacterium intracellulare

    Other Microorganisms

        Chlamydia trachomatis

    Susceptibility Test Methods

    When available, the clinical microbiology laboratory should provide cumulative reports of in vitro susceptibility test results for antimicrobial drugs used in local hospitals and practice areas 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 for treatment.

    Mycobacteria

    Susceptibility testing of azithromycin is not recommended because of the technical difficulties associated with testing azithromycin (i.e., poor solubility at the high concentration of drug that must be tested). Clarithromycin is the most appropriate class drug for testing the macrolides1.

  • 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 600 mg based on body surface area).

    13.2 Animal Toxicology

    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 the 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 the finding for animals and for humans is unknown.

  • 14 CLINICAL STUDIES

    14.1 Clinical Studies in Patients with Advanced HIV Infection for the Prevention and Treatment of Disease Due to Disseminated MAC

    [see Indications and Usage (1)]

    Prevention of Disseminated MAC Disease

    Two randomized, double-blind clinical trials were performed in patients with CD4 counts <100 cells/microliter. The first trial (Study 155) compared azithromycin (1200 mg once weekly) to placebo and enrolled 182 patients with a mean CD4 count of 35 cells/microliter. The second trial (Study 174) randomized 723 patients to either azithromycin (1200 mg once weekly), rifabutin (300 mg daily), or the combination of both. The mean CD4 count was 51 cells/microliter. The primary endpoint in these trials was disseminated MAC disease. Other endpoints included the incidence of clinically significant MAC disease and discontinuations from therapy for drug-related side effects.

    MAC bacteremia

    In Study 155, 85 patients randomized to receive azithromycin and 89 patients randomized to receive placebo met the entrance criteria. Cumulative incidences at 6, 12, and 18 months of the possible outcomes are in the following table:

    Cumulative Incidence Rate%: Placebo (n=89)
    Month
    MAC Free and Alive
    MAC
    Adverse Experience
    Lost to Follow-up
    6
    69.7
    13.5
    6.7
    10.1
    12
    47.2
    19.1
    15.7
    18
    18
    37.1
    22.5
    18
    22.5
    Cumulative Incidence Rate%: Azithromycin (n=85)
    Month
    MAC Free and Alive
    MAC
    Adverse Experience
    Lost to Follow-up
    6
    84.7
    3.5
    9.4
    2.4
    12
    63.5
    8.2
    16.5
    11.8
    18
    44.7
    11.8
    25.9
    17.6

    The difference in the one-year cumulative incidence rates of disseminated MAC disease (placebo - azithromycin) is 10.9%. This difference is statistically significant (p=0.037) with a 95% confidence interval for this difference of 0.8%, 20.9%. The comparable number of patients experiencing adverse events and the fewer number of patients lost to follow-up on azithromycin should be taken into account when interpreting the significance of this difference.

    In Study 174, 223 patients randomized to receive rifabutin, 223 patients randomized to receive azithromycin, and 218 patients randomized to receive both rifabutin and azithromycin met the entrance criteria. Cumulative incidences at 6, 12, and 18 months of the possible outcomes are recorded in the following table:

    Cumulative Incidence Rate%: Rifabutin (n=223)
    Month
    MAC Free and Alive
    MAC
    Adverse Experience
    Lost to Follow-up
    6
    83.4
    7.2
    8.1
    1.3
    12
    60.1
    15.2
    16.1
    8.5
    18
    40.8
    21.5
    24.2
    13.5
    Cumulative Incidence Rate%: Azithromycin (n=223)
    Month
    MAC Free and Alive
    MAC
    Adverse Experience
    Lost to Follow-up
    6
    85.2
    3.6
    5.8
    5.4
    12
    65.5
    7.6
    16.1
    10.8
    18
    45.3
    12.1
    23.8
    18.8
    Cumulative Incidence Rate%: Azithromycin/Rifabutin Combination (n=218)
    Month
    MAC Free and Alive
    MAC
    Adverse Experience
    Lost to Follow-up
    6
    89.4
    1.8
    5.5
    3.2
    12
    71.6
    2.8
    15.1
    10.6
    18
    49.1
    6.4
    29.4
    15.1

    Comparing the cumulative one-year incidence rates, azithromycin monotherapy is at least as effective as rifabutin monotherapy. The difference (rifabutin - azithromycin) in the one-year rates (7.6%) is statistically significant (p=0.022) with an adjusted 95% confidence interval (0.9%, 14.3%). Additionally, azithromycin/rifabutin combination therapy is more effective than rifabutin alone. The difference (rifabutin - azithromycin/rifabutin) in the cumulative one-year incidence rates (12.5%) is statistically significant (p<0.001) with an adjusted 95% confidence interval of 6.6%, 18.4%. The comparable number of patients experiencing adverse events and the fewer number of patients lost to follow-up on rifabutin should be taken into account when interpreting the significance of this difference.

    In Study 174, sensitivity testing2 was performed on all available MAC isolates from subjects randomized to either azithromycin, rifabutin, or the combination. The distribution of MIC values for azithromycin from susceptibility testing of the breakthrough isolates was similar between trial arms. As the efficacy of azithromycin in the treatment of disseminated MAC has not been established, the clinical relevance of these in vitro MICs as an indicator of susceptibility or resistance is not known.

    Clinically Significant Disseminated MAC Disease

    In association with the decreased incidence of bacteremia, patients in the groups randomized to either azithromycin alone or azithromycin in combination with rifabutin showed reductions in the signs and symptoms of disseminated MAC disease, including fever or night sweats, weight loss, and anemia.

    Discontinuations from Therapy for Drug-Related Side Effects

    In Study 155, discontinuations for drug-related toxicity occurred in 8.2% of subjects treated with azithromycin and 2.3% of those given placebo (p=0.121). In Study 174, more subjects discontinued from the combination of azithromycin and rifabutin (22.7%) than from azithromycin alone (13.5%; p=0.026) or rifabutin alone (15.9%; p=0.209).

    Safety

    As these patients with advanced HIV disease were taking multiple concomitant medications and experienced a variety of intercurrent illnesses, it was often difficult to attribute adverse reactions to study medication. Overall, the nature of adverse reactions seen on the weekly dosage regimen of azithromycin over a period of approximately one year in patients with advanced HIV disease were similar to that previously reported for shorter course therapies.

    INCIDENCE OF ONE OR MORE TREATMENT-RELATEDa ADVERSE REACTIONSbIN HIV INFECTED PATIENTS RECEIVING PROPHYLAXIS FOR DISSEMINATED MAC OVER APPROXIMATELY 1 YEAR

    a Includes those reactions considered possibly or probably related to study drug

    b >2% adverse reaction rates for any group (except uveitis)


    Study 155 
    Study 174 

    Placebo (N=91
    Azithromycin 
    1200 mg weekly 
    (N=89
    Azithromycin 
    1200 mg weekly 
    (N=233
    Rifabutin 
    300 mg daily 
    (N=236
    Azithromycin 
    Rifabutin (N=224
    Mean Duration of Therapy (days) 
    303.8 
    402.9 
    315 
    296.1 
    344.4 
    Discontinuation of Therapy 
    2.3 
    8.2 
    13.5 
    15.9 
    22.7 
    Autonomic Nervous System 





      Mouth Dry 



    3
    2.7 
    Central Nervous System 





      Dizziness 

    1.1 
    3.9 
    1.7 
    0.4 
      Headache 



    5.5 
    4.5 
    Gastrointestinal 





      Diarrhea 
    15.4 
    52.8 
    50.2 
    19.1 
    50.9 
      Loose Stools 
    6.6 
    19.1 
    12.9 

    9.4 
      Abdominal Pain 
    6.6 
    27 
    32.2 
    12.3 
    31.7 
      Dyspepsia 
    1.1 

    4.7 
    1.7 
    1.8 
      Flatulence 
    4.4 

    10.7 
    5.1 
    5.8 
      Nausea 
    11 
    32.6 
    27 
    16.5 
    28.1 
      Vomiting 
    1.1 
    6.7 

    3.8 
    5.8 
    General 





      Fever 
    1.1 

    2.1 
    4.2 
    4.9 
      Fatigue 

    2.2 
    3.9 
    2.1 
    3.1 
      Malaise 

    1.1 
    0.4 

    2.2 
    Musculoskeletal 





      Arthralgia 



    4.2 
    7.1 
    Psychiatric 





      Anorexia 
    1.1 

    2.1 
    2.1 
    3.1 
    Skin Appendages 





      Pruritus 
    3.3 

    3.9 
    3.4 
    7.6 
      Rash 
    3.2 
    3.4 
    8.1 
    9.4 
    11.1 
      Skin discoloration 



    2.1 
    2.2 
    Special Senses 





      Tinnitus 
    4.4 
    3.4 
    0.9 
    1.3 
    0.9 
      Hearing 
      Decreased 
    2.2 
    1.1 
    0.9 
    0.4 

      Uveitis 


    0.4 
    1.3 
    1.8 
      Taste Perversion 


    1.3 
    2.5 
    1.3 

    Adverse reactions related to the gastrointestinal tract were seen more frequently in patients receiving azithromycin than in those receiving placebo or rifabutin. In Study 174, 86% of diarrheal episodes were mild to moderate in nature with discontinuation of therapy for this reason occurring in only 9/233 (3.8%) of patients.

    Changes in Laboratory Values

    In these immunocompromised patients with advanced HIV infection, it was necessary to assess laboratory abnormalities developing on trial with additional criteria if baseline values were outside the relevant normal range.

    PROPHYLAXIS AGAINST DISSEMINATED MAC ABNORMAL LABORATORY VALUESa

    a excludes subjects outside of the relevant normal range at baseline

    b Upper Limit of Normal



    Placebo
    Azithromycin 1200 mg weekly
    Rifabutin 300 mg daily
    Azithromycin Rifabutin
    Hemoglobin
    <8 g/dL
    1/51
    2%
    4/170
    2%
    4/114
    4%
    8/107
    8%
    Platelet Count
    <50 × 103/mm3
    1/71
    1%
    4/260
    2%
    2/182
    1%
    6/181
    3%
    WBC Count
    <1 × 103/mm3
    0/8
    0%
    2/70
    3%
    2/47
    4%
    0/43
    0%
    Neutrophils
    <500/mm3
    0/26
    0%
    4/106
    4%
    3/82
    4%
    2/78
    3%
    SGOT
    >5 × ULNb
    1/41
    2%
    8/158
    5%
    3/121
    3%
    6/114
    5%
    SGPT
    >5 × ULN
    0/49
    0%
    8/166
    5%
    3/130
    2%
    5/117
    4%
    Alk Phos
    >5 × ULN
    1/80
    1%
    4/247
    2%
    2/172
    1%
    3/164
    2%

    Treatment of Disseminated MAC Disease

    One randomized, double-blind clinical trial (Study 189) was performed in patients with disseminated MAC. In this trial, 246 HIV-infected patients with disseminated MAC received either azithromycin 250 mg daily (N=65), azithromycin 600 mg daily (N=91), or clarithromycin 500 mg twice a day (N=90), each administered with ethambutol 15 mg/kg daily, for 24 weeks. Blood cultures and clinical assessments were performed every 3 weeks through week 12 and monthly thereafter through week 24. After week 24, patients were switched to any open-label therapy at the discretion of the investigator and followed every 3 months through the last follow-up visit of the trial. Patients were followed from the baseline visit for a period of up to 3.7 years (median: 9 months). MAC isolates recovered during treatment or post-treatment were obtained whenever possible.

    The primary endpoint was sterilization by week 24. Sterilization was based on data from the central laboratory, and was defined as two consecutive observed negative blood cultures for MAC, independent of missing culture data between the two negative observations. Analyses were performed on all randomized patients who had a positive baseline culture for MAC.

    The azithromycin 250 mg arm was discontinued after an interim analysis at 12 weeks showed a significantly lower clearance of bacteremia compared to clarithromycin 500 mg twice a day. Efficacy results for the azithromycin 600 mg daily and clarithromycin 500 mg twice a day treatment regimens are described in the following table:

    a [95% confidence interval] on difference in rates (azithromycin-clarithromycin)

    bPrimary endpoint

    RESPONSE TO THERAPY OF PATIENTS TAKING ETHAMBUTOL AND EITHER AZITHROMYCIN 600 MG DAILY OR CLARITHROMYCIN 500 MG TWICE DAY

    Azithromycin
    600 mg daily
    Clarithromycin
    500 mg twice day
    a95.1CI
    on difference
    Patients with positive culture at baseline 
    68
    57

    Week 24



       Two consecutive negative blood 
       culturesb
    31/68 (46%)
    32/57 (56%)
    [-28, 7]
       Mortality 
    16/68 (24%)
    15/57 (26%)
    [-18, 13]

    The primary endpoint, rate of sterilization of blood cultures (two consecutive negative cultures) at 24 weeks, was lower in the azithromycin 600 mg daily group than in the clarithromycin 500 mg twice a day group.

    Sterilization by Baseline Colony Count

    Within both treatment groups, the sterilization rates at week 24 decreased as the range of MAC cfu/mL increased.


    Azithromycin 600 mg 
    (N=68)
    Clarithromycin 500 mg 
    twice day (N=57)
    groups stratified by MAC 
    colony counts at baseline 
    no(%) subjects in stratified 
    group sterile at week 24
    no(%) subjects in stratified 
    group sterile at week 24
    ≤10 cfu/mL 
    10/15 (66.7%)
    12/17 (70.6%)
    11 to 100 cfu/mL 
    13/28 (46.4%)
    13/19 (68.4%)
    101 to 1,000 cfu/mL 
    7/19 (36.8%)
    5/13 (38.5%)
    1,001 to 10,000 cfu/mL 
    1/5 (20%)
    1/5 (20%)
    >10,000 cfu/mL 
    0/1 (0%)
    1/3 (33.3%)

    Susceptibility Pattern of MAC Isolates

    Susceptibility testing was performed on MAC isolates recovered at baseline, at the time of breakthrough on therapy or during post-therapy follow-up. The T100 radiometric broth method was employed to determine azithromycin and clarithromycin MIC values. Azithromycin MIC values ranged from <4 to >256 mcg/mL and clarithromycin MICs ranged from <1 to >32 mcg/mL. The individual MAC susceptibility results demonstrated that azithromycin MIC values could be 4 to 32-fold higher than clarithromycin MIC values.

    During treatment and post-treatment follow-up for up to 3.7 years (median: 9 months) in Study 189, a total of 6/68 (9%) and 6/57 (11%) of the patients randomized to azithromycin 600 mg daily and clarithromycin 500 mg twice a day respectively, developed MAC blood culture isolates that had a sharp increase in MIC values. All twelve MAC isolates had azithromycin MICs ≥256 mcg/mL and clarithromycin MICs >32 mcg/mL. These high MIC values suggest development of drug resistance. However, at this time, specific breakpoints for separating susceptible and resistant MAC isolates have not been established for either macrolide.

  • 15 REFERENCES

    1. Susceptibility Testing of Mycobacteria, Nocardia, and Other Aerobic Actinomycetes; Approved Standard, CLSI document M24-A2, CLSI, 2011.
    2. Griffith DE, Aksamit T, Brown-Elliot BA, et al. An official ATS/IDSA statement: Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of nontuberculous mycobacterial diseases. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2007; 175:367-416.
  • 16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

    Azithromycin tablets USP, 600 mg are supplied as white film-coated oval shaped biconvex tablets debossed with W962 on one side and other side plain containing anhydrous azithromycin 600 mg. These are packaged as follows:

    Bottles of 30: NDC: 64679-962-01

    Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].

  • 17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

    Azithromycin tablets may be taken with or without food. However, increased tolerability has been observed when tablets are taken with 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.

    Direct parents or caregivers to contact their physician if vomiting and irritability with feeding occurs in the infant.

    Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs, including azithromycin tablets, should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When azithromycin tablets are prescribed to treat bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of 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 tablets or other antibacterial drugs in the future.

    Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibacterial which usually ends when the antibiotic 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. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible.

    Rx only

    Manufactured by:

    Vivimed Life Sciences Private Limited

    Plot No. 101, 102, 107 & 108,

    SIDCO Pharmaceutical Complex,

    Alathur, Kanchipuram District-603110,

    Tamilnadu, India.

    Distributed by:

    Wockhardt USA LLC.

    20 Waterview Blvd.

    Parsippany, NJ 07054

    USA.

    Rev.200717

  • PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL

    DRUG: Azithromycin

    GENERIC: Azithromycin

    DOSAGE: Film-coated Tablets, USP

    ADMINSTRATION: Oral

    NDC: 64679-962-01

    STRENGTH: 600 mg

    COLOR: White

    SHAPE: Oval (Biconvex)

    SCORE: No Score

    SIZE: 17 mm

    IMPRINT: W962

    QTY: 30 Tablets

    30T-600 mg
  • INGREDIENTS AND APPEARANCE
    AZITHROMYCIN 
    azithromycin tablet, film coated
    Product Information
    Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC: 62980-962
    Route of AdministrationORAL
    Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
    Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
    AZITHROMYCIN ANHYDROUS (UNII: J2KLZ20U1M) (AZITHROMYCIN ANHYDROUS - UNII:J2KLZ20U1M) AZITHROMYCIN ANHYDROUS600 mg
    Inactive Ingredients
    Ingredient NameStrength
    CELLULOSE, MICROCRYSTALLINE (UNII: OP1R32D61U)  
    CROSCARMELLOSE SODIUM (UNII: M28OL1HH48)  
    HYDROXYPROPYL CELLULOSE (TYPE H) (UNII: RFW2ET671P)  
    HYPROMELLOSES (UNII: 3NXW29V3WO)  
    MAGNESIUM STEARATE (UNII: 70097M6I30)  
    MAGNESIUM TRISILICATE (UNII: C2E1CI501T)  
    POLYETHYLENE GLYCOLS (UNII: 3WJQ0SDW1A)  
    SILICON DIOXIDE (UNII: ETJ7Z6XBU4)  
    SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (UNII: 368GB5141J)  
    STARCH, CORN (UNII: O8232NY3SJ)  
    TITANIUM DIOXIDE (UNII: 15FIX9V2JP)  
    Product Characteristics
    ColorWHITE (white film-coated) Scoreno score
    ShapeOVAL (oval shaped biconvex) Size17mm
    FlavorImprint Code W962
    Contains    
    Packaging
    #Item CodePackage DescriptionMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    1NDC: 62980-962-0130 in 1 BOTTLE; Type 0: Not a Combination Product07/28/2015
    2NDC: 62980-962-031400 in 1 POUCH; Type 0: Not a Combination Product07/28/2015
    Marketing Information
    Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    ANDAANDA06530202/11/2008
    Labeler - Vivimed Labs Limited (650210664)
    Registrant - Wockhardt Limited (650069115)
    Establishment
    NameAddressID/FEIBusiness Operations
    Vivimed Life Sciences Private Limited860477684MANUFACTURE(62980-962) , ANALYSIS(62980-962) , LABEL(62980-962) , PACK(62980-962)

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