Recent Press Coverage Linking Azithromycin to Increased Risk of Sudden Death
Several media outlets have reported on a study that links azithromycin to sudden death. Azithromycin is a commonly used antibiotic, often prescribed to treat respiratory infections, ear infections, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
As the public health agency tasked with researching and developing STD treatment guidelines, we want to take this opportunity to point out that the findings from this study may not necessarily apply to patients who are treated with azithromycin for chlamydia or gonorrhea. It is important to note that a five day regimen of azithromycin was studied and discussed in recent media reports -- not a single dose regimen as recommended for chlamydia or dual therapy for gonorrhea.
Do not modify treatment regimens for patients receiving azithromycin for chlamydia and gonorrhea. CDC’s guidance for treating chlamydia and gonorrhea with azithromycin remain as follows:
Recommended Regimens for Treating Chlamydial Infections
Azithromycin 1 g orally in a single dose
OR
Doxycycline 100 mg orally twice a day for 7 days
Recommended Regimens for Treating Uncomplicated Gonococcal Infections of the Cervix, Urethra, and Rectum
Ceftriaxone 250 mg IM in a single dose
OR, IF NOT AN OPTION
Cefixime 400 mg orally in a single dose
OR
Single-dose injectible cephalosporin regimens
PLUS
Azithromycin 1g orally in a single dose
OR
Doxycycline 100 mg orally twice a day for 7 days
The Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines, 2010 can be found in its entirety at http://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment/2010/.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact 1-800-CDC-INFO.
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