Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

azithromycin sustained release

Azithromycin sustained release works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis.

Azithromycin sustained release works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. Used for Community-acquired pneumonia, Acute bacterial sinusitis, Pharyngitis/tonsillitis.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

It achieves this by binding to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, thereby preventing the translocation of peptides during protein synthesis. This action is bacteriostatic, meaning it inhibits the growth and replication of bacteria, rather than killing them outright.

Approved indications

• Community-acquired pneumonia
• Acute bacterial sinusitis
• Pharyngitis/tonsillitis

Common side effects

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Headache

Key clinical trials

• Drug Interaction Study of Azithromycin and Theophylline (NA)
• A Randomized, Open Label, Clinical Trial of the Pharmacokinetics of Azithromycin Following a Single Dose of Azithromycin Sustained Release (2 Gram) or Commercial Azithromycin Tablet (500 mg) to Cancer Patients That Require Lung Surgery (PHASE2)
• A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Double-Dummy Comparative Trial of Azithromycin Sustained Release Versus 3-Day Azithromycin for the Treatment of Strep Throat in Adolescents and Adults (PHASE3)
• A Trial Of Azithromycin SR For The Treatment Of Laryngopharyngitis or Tonsillitis or Acute Bacterial Rhinosinusitis (PHASE3)
• A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Double-Dummy Trial of Azithromycin SR Compared With Clarithromycin Extended Release for the Treatment of Pneumonia in Adult Patients (PHASE3)
• A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Double-Dummy Trial of Azithromycin SR Compared With Levofloxacin for the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Pneumonia in Adult Patients (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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