From the FDA Drug Label
Safety and efficacy using azithromycin 30 mg/kg given as a single dose Protocol 5 A double blind, controlled, randomized trial was performed at nine clinical centers Pediatric patients from 6 months to 12 years of age were randomized 1:1 to treatment with either azithromycin (given at 30 mg/kg as a single dose on Day 1)
The recommended dose of azithromycin for a cerebral palsy patient weighing 30 kg is 30 mg/kg given as a single dose, which would be 900 mg. 1
From the Research
For a cerebral palsy patient weighing 30 kg, the recommended azithromycin dose is 10 mg/kg on day 1 (300 mg), followed by 5 mg/kg (150 mg) once daily for days 2-5, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study available 2. This dosing regimen can be given as oral tablets, capsules, or suspension, with the suspension being easier to administer if the patient has difficulty swallowing. The medication should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals for optimal absorption, though it can be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. For respiratory infections, this 5-day course is typically sufficient. Azithromycin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis and has good tissue penetration with a long half-life, allowing for once-daily dosing. Patients with cerebral palsy may have altered medication metabolism or drug interactions if on multiple medications, so monitoring for side effects such as gastrointestinal disturbances, QT prolongation, or allergic reactions is important, as noted in various studies 3, 4. If the patient has significant liver or kidney dysfunction, dose adjustment may be necessary, considering the patient's overall health and potential comorbidities 5. It is essential to prioritize the patient's morbidity, mortality, and quality of life when determining the treatment plan, and azithromycin has been shown to be effective in treating community-acquired pneumonia, a common concern in cerebral palsy patients 2.