Azithromycin Pediatric Dose Calculator

Calculate accurate azithromycin doses for children with our free pediatric calculator. Ensure safe, weight-based antibiotic dosing for infections like pneumonia and ear infections.

a boy in a wheelchair holding a teddy bear
a boy in a wheelchair holding a teddy bear

Free Azithromycin Pediatric Dose Calculator – Safe & Accurate Child Antibiotic Dosing

Azithromycin is a life-saving antibiotic for childhood infections, but incorrect dosing risks treatment failure or toxicity. Our clinically validated Azithromycin Pediatric Dose Calculator eliminates guesswork by providing weight-based dosing precision tailored to your child’s medical profile.

What is Azithromycin?

Azithromycin belongs to the macrolide antibiotic class, effective against:

  • Bacterial pathogens: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae

  • Atypical bacteria: Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae

Key Clinical Uses in Pediatrics

Infection TypeExamplesTreatment DurationRespiratoryPneumonia, Sinusitis5 daysENTOtitis media, Strep throat3-5 daysSkin/Soft TissueImpetigo, Cellulitis5 days

Why Pediatric Dosing Demands Precision

Critical Factors Influencing Dose

  1. Weight Metrics

    • Under-dosing → Antibiotic resistance

    • Over-dosing → Hepatotoxicity, QT prolongation

  2. Renal/Hepatic Function

    • Reduced clearance in liver/kidney disease

  3. Drug Interactions

    • Antacids reduce absorption by 50%

    • Warfarin toxicity risk

How Our Dose Calculator Works

Step 1: Demographic Inputs

  • Weight: Converts lbs ↔ kg automatically

  • Age: Validates against developmental pharmacology thresholds

  • Height: Assesses BMI for obesity-adjusted dosing

Step 2: Medical History Analysis

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Captures contraindications like:

  • Cardiac conditions (QT risk)

  • Liver/kidney impairment

  • Macrolide allergy history

Step 3: Clinical Parameters

  • Infection severity: Modifies mg/kg intensity

  • Formulation: Suspension vs. tablet conversion

Calculation Algorithm

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*Max dose cap: 500mg/day for children >45 kg*

Interpreting Your Results

Sample Output Breakdown

Result ComponentExplanation250 mg suspension= 6.25 mL of 200mg/5ml formulationRisk Meter PositionGreen: Safe zone
Yellow: Monitor interactions
Red: Contraindication alertDuration Guidance5 days for pneumonia
3 days for strep throat

Treatment Protocols for Common Infections

Pneumonia Management

  1. Diagnosis Confirmation

    • Chest X-ray + CRP blood test

  2. First-Line Treatment

    • Azithromycin 10mg/kg/day × 5 days

  3. Alternative Options

    • Amoxicillin-clavulanate if penicillin-tolerant

Otitis Media Approach

Yes

No

Ear Pain + Fever

Tympanometry

Effusion?

Azithromycin 10mg/kg/day

Watchful Waiting

Critical Safety Precautions

Absolute Contraindications

  • History of cholestatic jaundice with azithromycin

  • QT prolongation or arrhythmias

  • Concurrent use of Cisapride or Pimozide

Monitoring Requirements

  • Liver enzymes: Baseline + Day 3 if hepatic disease

  • Diarrhea management: Probiotics supplementation

  • QT interval: ECG if high-risk cardiac history

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I split adult tablets for children?

No. Adult tablets aren't scored for accurate splitting. Use pediatric suspension for doses <500mg.

What if my child vomits after dose?

  • Within 30 mins: Redose

  • After 1 hour: Skip dose

Are generics equally effective?

Yes. FDA-approved generics (e.g., Zithromax® equivalents) meet identical bioequivalence standards.

Disclaimer

This calculator provides initial dosing estimates only. Always consult a pediatrician before administering medications. Doses may require adjustment based on lab results or clinical response.