Comparison of gastrointestinal side effects from different doses of azithromycin for the treatment of gonorrhoea

Abstract

Objectives: Azithromycin is commonly used to treat Neisseria gonorrhoeae. We compared its gastrointestinal side effects using 1g single, 2g single or 2g split (i.e. 1g plus 1g 6-12h later) dosing, representing our clinic's changing guidelines over the study period. Methods: We recruited consecutive sexual health clinic patients who received azithromycin (and 500mg ceftriaxone) for uncomplicated gonorrhoea. Each patient received a text message 48h after their attendance to complete a questionnaire. Results: Patients received 1g single (n=271), 2g single (218) or 2g split (105) doses. Vomiting was less common for 1g versus 2g single dose [1.1% versus 3.7%; risk difference (RD):-2.6%; 95% CI:-0..