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Zithromax
azithromycin dihydrate · Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, for Solution
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Azithromycin Dihydrate | 500 mg/5mL | 308460 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Macrolide Antimicrobial [EPC] | EPC | All 31 members |
| Macrolides [CS] | CS | All 32 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 050733-001 | ZITHROMAX | INJECTABLE | AZITHROMYCIN | Discontinued | AP | RLD |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated (parenteral aqueous solutions)
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 52 | Labeling | Approved | July 13, 2026 | Standard |
| Supplement | 49 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | January 6, 2022 | N/A |
| Supplement | 50 | Labeling | Approved | November 22, 2021 | Standard |
| Supplement | 47 | Labeling | Approved | April 24, 2019 | Standard |
| Supplement | 46 | Labeling | Approved | March 29, 2017 | Standard |
| Supplement | 43 | Labeling | Approved | February 10, 2017 | Standard |
| Supplement | 40 | Labeling | Approved | May 24, 2016 | Standard |
| Supplement | 38 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | June 24, 2014 | Standard |
| Supplement | 31 | Labeling | Approved | June 6, 2014 | Standard |
| Supplement | 35 | Labeling | Approved | February 19, 2013 | Standard |
| Supplement | 34 | Labeling | Approved | June 6, 2012 | Standard |
| Supplement | 33 | Labeling | Approved | November 16, 2011 | Standard |
| Supplement | 30 | Labeling | Approved | January 28, 2011 | Standard |
| Supplement | 29 | Labeling | Approved | August 11, 2010 | Standard |
| Supplement | 23 | Labeling | Approved | March 6, 2009 | Standard |
| Supplement | 18 | Labeling | Approved | October 25, 2007 | Standard |
| Supplement | 13 | Labeling | Approved | January 15, 2004 | Standard |
| Supplement | 12 | Labeling | Approved | January 15, 2004 | Standard |
| Supplement | 7 | Labeling | Approved | June 12, 2003 | Standard |
| Supplement | 6 | Labeling | Approved | October 16, 2002 | Standard |
| Supplement | 10 | Labeling | Approved | July 22, 2002 | Standard |
| Supplement | 9 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | March 13, 2002 | Standard |
| Supplement | 8 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | December 10, 2001 | Standard |
| Supplement | 5 | Labeling | Approved | February 28, 2001 | Standard |
| Supplement | 4 | Labeling | Approved | November 11, 2000 | Standard |
| Supplement | 3 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | November 22, 1999 | Standard |
| Supplement | 2 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | October 19, 1999 | Standard |
| Supplement | 1 | Labeling | Approved | July 20, 1999 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Type 3 - New Dosage Form | Approved | January 30, 1997 | Standard |
Review documents
- 0 · Supplement · July 20, 2026
- 0 · Supplement · July 15, 2026
- 0 · Supplement · July 5, 2022
- 0 · Supplement · July 5, 2022
- 0 · Supplement · November 24, 2021
- 0 · Supplement · November 23, 2021
- 0 · Original application · April 26, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · April 25, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · April 3, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · March 30, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · February 13, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · February 13, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · May 26, 2016
- 0 · Supplement · May 25, 2016
- 0 · Supplement · June 10, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · June 10, 2014
- 0 · Original application · March 12, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · February 21, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · February 21, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · June 11, 2012
- 0 · Supplement · June 8, 2012
- 0 · Supplement · November 21, 2011
- 0 · Supplement · November 21, 2011
- 0 · Supplement · February 4, 2011
- 0 · Supplement · February 3, 2011
- 0 · Supplement · August 19, 2010
- 0 · Supplement · August 17, 2010
- 0 · Supplement · April 3, 2009
- 0 · Supplement · March 3, 2009
- 0 · Supplement · November 8, 2007
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260724). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE ZITHROMAX is a macrolide antibacterial drug indicated for the treatment of the following infections caused by designated susceptible microorganisms: • Community-acquired pneumonia in adults ( 1.1 ) • Pelvic inflammatory disease in adults ( 1.2 ) To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of ZITHROMAX and other antibacterial drugs, ZITHROMAX should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. ( 1.3 ) 1.1 Community-Acquired Pneumonia ZITHROMAX is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia due to the following susceptible microorganisms: Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Legionella pneumophila, Moraxella catarrhalis, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, or Streptococcus pneumoniae in patients who require initial intravenous therapy. 1.2 Pelvic Inflammatory Disease ZITHROMAX is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with pelvic inflammatory disease due to the following susceptible microorganisms: Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, or Mycoplasma hominis in patients who require initial intravenous therapy. If anaerobic microorganisms are suspected of contributing to the infection, an antimicrobial agent with anaerobic activity should be administered in combination with ZITHROMAX. 1.3 Usage To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of ZITHROMAX and other antibacterial drugs, ZITHROMAX should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When 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.
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Recommended Dosage for Community-acquired pneumonia: 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for at least two days. ( 2.1 ) • Recommended Dosage for Pelvic inflammatory disease in adults: 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for one or two days. ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Recommended Dosage for Community-Acquired Pneumonia The recommended dosage of ZITHROMAX for injection for the treatment of adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia due to the indicated organisms is 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for at least two days. Intravenous therapy should be followed by azithromycin by the oral route at a single, daily dose of 500 mg, administered as two 250 mg tablets to complete a 7- to 10-day course of therapy. The timing of the switch to oral therapy should be done at the discretion of the physician and in accordance with clinical response. [see Indications and Usage (1.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. 2.2 Recommended Dosage for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease The recommended dosage of ZITHROMAX for injection for the treatment of adult patients with pelvic inflammatory disease due to the indicated organisms is 500 mg as a single daily dose by the intravenous route for one or two days. Intravenous therapy should be followed by azithromycin by the oral route at a single, daily dose of 250 mg to complete a 7-day course of therapy. The timing of the switch to oral therapy should be done at the discretion of the physician and in accordance with clinical response. [see Indications and Usage (1.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. 2.3 Preparation of the Solution for Intravenous Administration The infusate concentration and rate of infusion for ZITHROMAX for injection should be either 1 mg/mL over 3 hr or 2 mg/mL over 1 hr. ZITHROMAX for injection should not be given as a bolus or as an intramuscular injection. ZITHROMAX for injection should be followed by ZITHROMAX by the oral route as required. [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) and (2.2) ] . Reconstitution Prepare the initial solution of ZITHROMAX for injection by adding 4.8 mL of Sterile Water for Injection to the 500 mg vial, and shaking the vial until all of the drug is dissolved. Since ZITHROMAX for injection is supplied under vacuum, it is recommended that a standard 5 mL (non-automated) syringe be used to ensure that the exact amount of 4.8 mL of Sterile Water is dispensed. Each mL of reconstituted solution contains 100 mg azithromycin. Reconstituted solution is stable for 24 hr when stored below 30°C (86°F). Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter prior to administration. If particulate matter is evident in reconstituted fluids, the drug solution should be discarded. Dilute this solution further prior to administration as instructed below. Dilution To provide azithromycin over a concentration range of 1–2 mg/mL, transfer 5 mL of the 100 mg/mL azithromycin solution into the appropriate amount of any of the diluents listed below: Normal Saline (0.9% sodium chloride) 1/2 Normal Saline (0.45% sodium chloride) 5% Dextrose in Water Lactated Ringer's Solution 5% Dextrose in 1/2 Normal Saline (0.45% sodium chloride) with 20 mEq KCl 5% Dextrose in Lactated Ringer's Solution 5% Dextrose in 1/3 Normal Saline (0.3% sodium chloride) 5% Dextrose in 1/2 Normal Saline (0.45% sodium chloride) Normosol ® -M in 5% Dextrose Normosol ® -R in 5% Dextrose Final Infusion Solution Concentration (mg/mL) Amount of Diluent (mL) 1 mg/mL 500 mL 2 mg/mL 250 mL Other intravenous substances, additives, or medications should not be added to ZITHROMAX for injection, or infused simultaneously through the same intravenous line. Storage When diluted according to the instructions (1 mg/mL to 2 mg/mL), ZITHROMAX for injection is stable for 24 hr at or below room temperature 30°C (86°F), or for 7 days if stored under refrigeration 5°C (41°F).
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS ZITHROMAX for injection is supplied as white to off-white lyophilized powder in a single-dose vial equivalent to 500 mg of azithromycin for intravenous administration. ZITHROMAX for injection is supplied as white to off-white lyophilized powder in a single-dose vial equivalent to 500 mg of azithromycin for intravenous administration. ( 3 )
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS • Patients with known hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin, any macrolide, or ketolide antibacterial drug. ( 4.1 ) • Patients with a history of cholestatic jaundice/hepatic dysfunction associated with prior use of azithromycin. ( 4.2 ) 4.1 Hypersensitivity ZITHROMAX is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin, any macrolide or ketolide drugs. 4.2 Hepatic Dysfunction ZITHROMAX is contraindicated in patients with a history of cholestatic jaundice/hepatic dysfunction associated with prior use of azithromycin.
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Serious (including fatal) allergic and skin reactions. Discontinue ZITHROMAX and initiate appropriate therapy if reaction occurs. ( 5.1 ) • Hepatotoxicity: Severe and sometimes fatal, hepatoxicity has been reported. Discontinue ZITHROMAX immediately if signs and symptoms of hepatitis occur. ( 5.2 ) • Infantile Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis (IHPS): 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. ( 5.3 ) • Prolongation of QT interval and cases of torsades de pointes have been reported. This risk which can be fatal should be considered in patients with certain cardiovascular disorders including known QT prolongation or history torsades de pointes, those with proarrhythmic conditions, and with other drugs that prolong the QT interval. ( 5.4 ) • Cardiovascular Death: Some observational studies have shown an approximately two-fold increased short-term potential risk of acute cardiovascular death in adults exposed to azithromycin relative to other antibacterial drugs, including amoxicillin. Consider balancing this potential risk with treatment benefits when prescribing ZITHROMAX. ( 5.5 ) • Clostridioides difficile -Associated Diarrhea: Evaluate patients if diarrhea occurs. ( 5.6 ) • ZITHROMAX may exacerbate muscle weakness in persons with myasthenia gravis. ( 5.7 ) 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 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 unknown at present. If an allergic reaction occurs, the drug should be discontinued and appropriate therapy should be instituted. Physicians should be aware that the allergic symptoms may reappear after symptomatic therapy has been 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 (IHPS) 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 …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in labeling: • Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Infantile Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis (IHPS) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • QT Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • Cardiovascular Death [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • Clostridioides difficile- Associated Diarrhea (CDAD) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] • Exacerbation of Myasthenia Gravis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Most common adverse reactions are nausea (4%), diarrhea (4%), abdominal pain (3%), or vomiting (1%). ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pfizer Inc. at 1-800-438-1985 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 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 of intravenous azithromycin for community-acquired pneumonia, in which 2 to 5 IV doses were given, the reported adverse reactions were mild to moderate in severity and were reversible upon discontinuation of the drug. The majority of patients in these trials had one or more co-morbid diseases and were receiving concomitant medications. Approximately 1.2% of the patients discontinued intravenous ZITHROMAX therapy, and a total of 2.4% discontinued azithromycin therapy by either the intravenous or oral route because of clinical or laboratory side effects. In clinical trials conducted in patients with pelvic inflammatory disease, in which 1 to 2 IV doses were given, 2% of women who received monotherapy with azithromycin and 4% who received azithromycin plus metronidazole discontinued therapy due to clinical side effects. Clinical adverse reactions leading to discontinuations from these studies were gastrointestinal (abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), and rashes; laboratory side effects leading to discontinuation were increases in transaminase levels and/or alkaline phosphatase levels. Overall, the most common adverse reactions associated with treatment in adult patients who received IV/Oral ZITHROMAX in studies of community-acquired pneumonia were related to the gastrointestinal system with diarrhea/loose stools (4.3%), nausea (3.9%), abdominal pain (2.7%), and vomiting (1.4%) being the most frequently reported. Approximately 12% of patients experienced a side effect related to the intravenous infusion; most common were pain at the injection site (6.5%) and local inflammation (3.1%). The most common adverse reactions associated with treatment in adult women who received IV/Oral ZITHROMAX in trials of pelvic inflammatory disease were related to the gastrointestinal system. Diarrhea (8.5%) and nausea (6.6%) were most commonly reported, followed by vaginitis (2.8%), abdominal pain (1.9%), anorexia (1.9%), rash and pruritus (1.9%). When azithromycin was co-administered with metronidazole in these trials, a higher proportion of women experienced adverse reactions of nausea (10.3%), abdominal pain (3.7%), vomiting (2.8%), infusion site reaction, stomatitis, dizziness, or dyspnea (all at 1.9%). Adverse reactions that occurred with a frequency of 1% or less included the following: Gastrointestinal: Dyspepsia, flatulence, mucositis, oral moniliasis, and gastritis. Nervous system: Headache, somnolence. Allergic: Bronchospasm. Special senses: Taste perversion. 6.2 Postmarketing 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 wit …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS • Nelfinavir: Close monitoring for known adverse reactions of azithromycin, such as liver enzyme abnormalities and hearing impairment, is warranted. ( 7.1 ) • Warfarin: Use with azithromycin may increase coagulation times; monitor prothrombin time. ( 7.2 ) 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 postmarketing 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 digoxin, colchicine or phenytoin have not been reported in clinical trials with azithromycin. 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, colchicine or phenytoin are used with azithromycin careful monitoring of patients is advised.
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Geriatric use: Elderly patients may be more susceptible to development of torsades de pointes arrhythmias. ( 8.5 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data from published literature and postmarketing experience over several decades with azithromycin use in pregnant women have not identified any drug-associated risks for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes (see Data ). Developmental toxicity studies with azithromycin in rats, mice, and rabbits showed no drug-induced fetal malformations at doses up to 4, 2, and 2 times, respectively, an adult human daily dose of 500 mg based on body surface area. Decreased viability and delayed development were observed in the offspring of pregnant rats administered azithromycin from day 6 of pregnancy through weaning at a dose equivalent to 4 times an adult human daily dose of 500 mg based on body surface area (see Data ) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Data Human Data Available data from published observational studies, case series, and case reports over several decades do not suggest an increased risk for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes with azithromycin use in pregnant women. Limitations of these data include the lack of randomization and inability to control for confounders such as underlying maternal disease and maternal use of concomitant medications. Animal Data Reproductive and developmental toxicology studies have not been conducted using IV administration of azithromycin to animals. Azithromycin administered during the period of organogenesis did not cause fetal malformations in rats and mice at oral doses up to 200 mg/kg/day (moderately maternally toxic). Based on body surface area, this dose is approximately 4 (rats) and 2 (mice) times an adult human daily dose of 500 mg. In rabbits administered azithromycin at oral doses of 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg/day during organogenesis, reduced maternal body weight and food consumption were observed in all groups; no evidence of fetotoxicity or teratogenicity was observed at these doses, the highest of which is estimated to be 2 times an adult human daily dose of 500 mg based on body surface area. In a pre- and postnatal development study, azithromycin was administered orally to pregnant rats from day 6 of pregnancy until weaning at doses of 50 or 200 mg/kg/day. Maternal toxicity (reduced food consumption and body weight gain; increased stress at parturition) was observed at the higher dose. Effects in the offspring were noted at 200 mg/kg/day during the postnatal development period (decreased viability, delayed developmental landmarks). These effects were not observed in a pre- and postnatal rat study when up to 200 mg/kg/day of azithromycin was given orally beginning on day 15 of pregnancy until weaning. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Azithromycin is present in human milk (see Data ) . Non-serious adverse reactions have been reported in breastfed infants after maternal administration of azithromycin (see Clinical Considerations ) . There are no available data on the effects of azithromycin on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for ZITHROMAX and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from ZITHROMAX or from the underlying maternal condition. Clinical Considerations Advise women to monitor the breastfed infant for diarrhea, vomiting, or rash. Data Azithromycin breastmilk concentrations were measured in 20 women after receiving a single 2 g oral dose of azithromycin during labor. Breastmilk sample …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action Azithromycin is a macrolide antibacterial drug [see Microbiology (12.4) ]
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION ZITHROMAX for injection (azithromycin for injection, USP) contains the active ingredient azithromycin, an azalide, a subclass of macrolide antibacterial drug, for intravenous injection. 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-hepta-methyl- 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 38 H 72 N 2 O 12 , and its molecular weight is 749. Azithromycin has the following structural formula: Azithromycin, as the dihydrate, is a white crystalline powder with a molecular formula of C 38 H 72 N 2 O 12 ∙ 2H 2 O and a molecular weight of 785. ZITHROMAX for injection (azithromycin for injection, USP) consists of azithromycin dihydrate and the following inactive ingredients: anhydrous citric acid and sodium hydroxide. Sodium hydroxide is added to adjust the pH. ZITHROMAX for injection (azithromycin for injection, USP) is supplied as white to off-white lyophilized powder in a single-dose vial for intravenous administration. Each vial contains azithromycin dihydrate equivalent to 500 mg of azithromycin, 384.6 mg anhydrous citric acid, and sodium hydroxide. Reconstitution, according to label directions, results in approximately 5 mL of ZITHROMAX for intravenous injection with each mL containing azithromycin dihydrate equivalent to 100 mg of azithromycin, 76.9 mg anhydrous citric acid, and sodium hydroxide. Chemical Structure
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OVERDOSAGE Adverse reactions experienced in higher than recommended doses were similar to those seen at normal doses particularly nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. In the event of overdosage, general symptomatic and supportive measures are indicated as required.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING ZITHROMAX for injection (azithromycin for injection, USP) is supplied as white to off-white lyophilized powder under a vacuum in a single-dose vial equivalent to 500 mg of azithromycin for intravenous administration. These are packaged as follows: Unit of Sale Concentration NDC 0069-3150-83 500 mg/vial Carton containing 10 single-dose vials Before reconstitution, store vials at or below 30°C (86°F) [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ] .
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: AZITHROMYCIN DIHYDRATE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Recalls
Source: FDA Enforcement| Classification | Reported | Firm | Reason | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class III | January 22, 2014 | Pfizer Inc. | Failed Impurities/Degradation Specifications: Pfizer is recalling certain lots due to out of specification results for azithromycin N-oxide degradant. | Terminated |
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0069-0400-10 | 0069-0400 | Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc | 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (0069-0400-10) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL (0069-0400-01) | March 7, 2014 |
| 0069-3150-83 | 0069-3150 | Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc | 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (0069-3150-83) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL (0069-3150-84) | January 30, 1997 |
| 0069-0400 | 0069-0400 | Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc | — | March 7, 2014 |
| 0069-3150 | 0069-3150 | Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc | — | January 30, 1997 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
| Enforcement | FDA | Recall records |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.