Intravenous azithromycin-induced ototoxicity.

Author(s): Bizjak ED, Haug MT 3rd, Schilz RJ, Sarodia BD, Dresing JM

Affiliation(s): College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, USA.

Publication date & source: 1999-02, Pharmacotherapy., 19(2):245-8.

Publication type: Case Reports

Intravenous azithromycin is increasingly administered for treatment of hospitalized patients with community-acquired pneumonia. Macrolide antibiotics cause ototoxicity, which occurs most frequently when high serum concentrations are achieved. Current dosing guidelines for intravenous azithromycin can result in much higher serum concentrations than is seen with oral administration. We describe a 47-year-old woman who developed complete deafness after receiving 8 days of intravenous azithromycin.