Azithromycin extended release vs amoxicillin/clavulanate: symptom resolution in acute sinusitis
Bradley F Marple1, Craig S Roberts, Jennifer R Frytak
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA. bradley.marple@utsouthwestern.edu
A single dose of azithromycin extended release provided faster symptom resolution for acute sinusitis compared to amoxicillin/clavulanate. Both treatments showed similar rates of additional antibiotic use, demonstrating comparable effectiveness in managing sinusitis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Acute sinusitis is a common condition often treated with antibiotics.
- Choosing the optimal antibiotic regimen balances efficacy, patient convenience, and potential side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of a single 2-g dose of azithromycin extended release versus 10 days of amoxicillin/clavulanate for acute sinusitis.
- To evaluate early symptom resolution and need for additional antibiotic use.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, randomized, open-label, observational study mimicking real-world conditions.
- Patients with acute bacterial sinusitis symptoms (7-30 days) were randomized to azithromycin or amoxicillin/clavulanate.
- Symptom resolution was assessed via patient diaries and telephone interviews.
Main Results:
- Symptom resolution by day 5 was significantly higher in the azithromycin group (29.7%) compared to the amoxicillin/clavulanate group (18.9%).
- No significant difference was observed in the use of additional antibiotics by day 28 between the two treatment arms.
- Quality of life and treatment satisfaction were similar between groups.
Conclusions:
- Azithromycin extended release offers a faster onset of symptom relief for acute sinusitis.
- Both azithromycin extended release and amoxicillin/clavulanate are effective treatments with similar long-term outcomes regarding additional antibiotic use.
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