Efficacy of a new macrolide (azithromycin). For acute otitis media in the chinchilla model.

The efficacy of an investigational macrolide, azithromycin, in the treatment of acute otitis media consequent to an infection by a strain of beta-lactamase-producing Haemophilus influenzae, was evaluated using the chinchilla animal model. The results indicate that the azithromycin high-dosage (30 mg/kg/d) group has a significantly higher rate for effusion sterilization and resolution as compared with the other treatment groups. Unique pharmacokinetic properties of this investigational antimicrobial were demonstrated. Clinical trials using azithromycin for the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections, including otitis media, are warranted.