Treat for 6-9 months or until 6 months have elapsed from conversion to sputum culture negativity. Pregnancy C - Safety for use during pregnancy has not been established. Diffuses into actively growing mycobacterial cells, such as tubercle bacilli. Impairs cell metabolism by inhibiting synthesis of one or more metabolites, which in turn causes cell death. No cross-resistance demonstrated.
Mycobacterial resistance is frequent with previous therapy.
Pregnancy B - Usually safe but benefits must outweigh the risks. Reports indicate that it can help eradicate an organism unresponsive to either anti-tuberculars or tetracyclines. Cases of organisms resistant to conventional anti-tubercular therapy have responded to clarithromycin but not erythromycin. Use of azithromycin has not been reported. Inhibits bacterial DNA synthesis, and consequently growth.