Question 1

What is Azithromycin used for?

Accepted Answer

Azithromycin is indicated for: 3rd-line, Bartonella, Chlamydophila (alternative), Cryptosporidiosis, Feline upper respiratory infection, Helicobacter mustelae, Kennel cough (Bordetella adjunct), Mycobacteria, Mycobacterial infections, Papillomatosis, Resistant Mycoplasma, Respiratory infections, Respiratory infections (alternative), Rhodococcus equi in foals (with rifampin), skin, URI.

Question 2

What routes can Azithromycin be administered by?

Accepted Answer

Available routes: PO.

Question 3

Which species have cited Azithromycin dosing data?

Accepted Answer

Azithromycin dosing in the ExoticRx formulary covers 9 species: African Grey Parrot, Bearded Dragon, Cat (Domestic), Dog (Domestic), Ferret, Guinea Pig, Horse (Equine), Pet Rat, Rabbit (Domestic).

Question 4

Is Azithromycin a controlled substance?

Accepted Answer

Azithromycin is not federally scheduled as a controlled substance, but is veterinary prescription only in most jurisdictions.

Question 5

What are the warnings or contraindications for Azithromycin?

Accepted Answer

CONTRAINDICATED orally in rabbits and guinea pigs (fatal dysbiosis). May cause GI upset. Long tissue half-life means prolonged effect after discontinuation.

Question 6

What are the side effects of Azithromycin?

Accepted Answer

Reported side effects, adverse reactions, and contraindications for Azithromycin: CONTRAINDICATED orally in rabbits and guinea pigs (fatal dysbiosis). May cause GI upset. Long tissue half-life means prolonged effect after discontinuation.

Question 7

How does Azithromycin work?

Accepted Answer

Binds to 50S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. Concentrates in tissues with long half-life.

Species	Route	Dose	Frequency	Evidence	Source
Cat (Domestic)	PO	5–10 mg/kg	q24-48h	Strong	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Dog (Domestic)	PO	5–10 mg/kg	q24h	Strong	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Azithromycin

Drug Class

Routes

Indications

Mechanism of Action

Side effects & warnings

Species with Azithromycin dosing data (14 dose rules)

Evidence levels across 14 dose rules

Backed by 5 published sources

Sample dosing (2 of 14 cited rules)

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Other formulations of Azithromycin