HIV-INFECTION AND AZITHROMYCIN

Azithromycin is an azalid antibiotic, the features of which lu-e an ex tended half-life and a wide tissular distribution. In vitro and in ani mal models its efficacy is demonstrated particularly against intracell ular pathogens, protozoan pathogens (Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidiu m parvum), and Mycobacterium avium. The authors review the activity of azithromycin in prophylaxis and treatment of opportunistic infections , in HIV-infected patients. Azithromycin is an effective prophylaxis a gent against M. avium complex disease and thus dramatically decreases bacterial infections. Furthermore, azithromycin appears to be a conven ient regimen for community acquired infections and may serve as an alt ernative treatment for Rhodococcus equi and Bartonella henselae infect ions. Preliminary results show an interesting curative action of azith romycin in M. avium complex disease, toxoplasmosis, and cryptosporidio sis. Further studies are necessary to determine and warrant the potent ial activity of azithromycin in these infections.