
Azithromycin Dihydrate CAS 117772-70-0
Category:Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Introduction
Azithromycin dihydrate is a macrolide antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections.
Molecular Formula:C38H76N2O14
Molecular Weight:785.015
CAS No.: 117772-70-0
Description
Azithromycin Dihydrate is white or almost white powder. It is freely soluble in anhydrous ethanol and in methylene chloride; practically insoluble in water.
Application
Azithromycin dihydrate is a macrolide antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections, mainly used to treat respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections and sexually transmitted diseases.
Packing
25kg/drum or as per customer’s requirements.
Storage
Preserve in airtight containers.
Shelf Life
36 months from date of production when stored in good condition.
Minimum Order
One package
Azithromycin Dihydrate Introduction
Item | Details |
Generic Name | Azithromycin Dihydrate |
CAS Number | 117772 – 70 – 0 |
Trade Names | Zithromax, Zmax, etc. |
Classification | Macrolide antibiotic |
Chemical Structure | Azithromycin dihydrate has a 15 – membered macrolactone ring, which is a key structural feature for its antibacterial activity. The molecular formula of azithromycin (anhydrous form) is C₃₈H₇₂N₂O₁₂, and when in the dihydrate form, it has additional water molecules. The structure allows it to interact with the bacterial ribosome. The unique ring structure and attached functional groups contribute to its specific binding properties. |
Pharmacological Action | Azithromycin dihydrate binds to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome. This binding inhibits the translocation step during protein synthesis. As a result, the movement of the ribosome along the mRNA is blocked, preventing the addition of new amino acids to the growing polypeptide chain. It has a broad – spectrum antibacterial activity, being effective against a wide range of Gram – positive and Gram – negative bacteria. It also shows good activity against atypical pathogens such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Legionella pneumophila. |
Clinical Applications | 1. Respiratory Tract Infections: – Treats community – acquired pneumonia, often caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Legionella pneumophila. – Used for acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, targeting Haemophilus influenzae and other relevant pathogens. – Effective in treating pharyngitis and tonsillitis, especially when caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. 2. Genitourinary Tract Infections: – Treats non – gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. – Can be used in the treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease, often in combination with other antibiotics. 3. Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: – Effective against skin infections like cellulitis, impetigo, and folliculitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. |
Dosage and Administration | Adults: – For most infections, the typical oral dose is 500 mg on the first day, followed by 250 mg once daily for the next 4 days. – For some infections, such as community – acquired pneumonia, a single – dose extended – release formulation (Zmax) of 2 g can be taken orally. – In severe cases, it can be administered intravenously, starting with a dose of 500 mg per day, and then switched to oral administration as the patient’s condition improves. Children: – The dose is calculated based on body weight. For example, for otitis media, the dose is 10 mg/kg on the first day, followed by 5 mg/kg once daily for the next 4 days. – It can be taken with or without food, although food may slightly delay its absorption. |
Adverse Reactions | 1. Gastrointestinal Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite are common side effects. These symptoms are usually mild to moderate and may be more likely to occur when the drug is taken on an empty stomach. 2. Allergic Reactions: Although rare, rashes, itching, and in severe cases, anaphylactic shock can occur. 3. Hepatotoxicity: In some cases, it may cause mild and transient elevations in liver enzymes, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). 4. Cardiovascular Effects: Rarely, it may be associated with QT – interval prolongation, which can potentially lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias, especially in patients with pre – existing cardiac conditions or those taking other drugs that also affect the QT interval. 5. Clostridium difficile – associated Diarrhea: There is a risk of developing Clostridium difficile – associated diarrhea, which can range from mild to severe. |
Drug Interactions | 1. With CYP3A4 – related Drugs: Azithromycin is metabolized by the cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme system. Drugs that inhibit CYP3A4. such as ketoconazole, can increase the levels of azithromycin, leading to an increased risk of side effects. On the other hand, drugs that induce CYP3A4. like rifampicin, can decrease the levels of azithromycin, potentially reducing its efficacy. 2. With Theophylline: Co – administration with theophylline can increase the blood levels of theophylline, increasing the risk of theophylline toxicity, such as seizures and cardiac arrhythmias. Close monitoring of theophylline levels is required when used together. 3. With Warfarin: Azithromycin may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Regular monitoring of prothrombin time or international normalized ratio (INR) is necessary when these two drugs are used concomitantly. 4. With Oral Contraceptives: It may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives by interfering with the normal gut flora that recycles estrogen conjugates. Women using oral contraceptives should be advised to use additional contraceptive methods during azithromycin treatment. |
Special Population Considerations | 1. Pregnant Women: Use during pregnancy is generally not recommended, as there is limited data on its safety. However, in some cases where the benefits outweigh the potential risks, it may be used under strict medical supervision. 2. Breastfeeding Women: It is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Caution should be exercised when using it during breastfeeding, and in some cases, breastfeeding may need to be temporarily discontinued. 3. Patients with Liver Impairment: The drug should be used with caution in patients with significant liver impairment, as its metabolism may be affected, leading to increased drug levels and a higher risk of side effects. Dosage adjustment may be required. 4. Elderly Patients: Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the drug’s side effects, especially gastrointestinal and cardiovascular effects. Close monitoring is needed when prescribing azithromycin to the elderly. |
History and Development | Azithromycin was developed as an improvement over earlier macrolide antibiotics. It was designed to have a longer half – life, allowing for less frequent dosing. This improves patient compliance. It was introduced in the 1980s and has since become a widely used antibiotic for the treatment of various infections, especially those involving atypical pathogens. Its unique pharmacokinetic properties and broad – spectrum activity have made it an important drug in the management of respiratory, genitourinary, and skin infections. |