A STUDY ON SAFETY AND EFFICACY OF ADDING SINGLE DOSE ADJUNCTIVE AZITHROMYCIN PROPHYLAXIS FOR EMERGENCY CAESAREAN SECTION DELIVERY: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Abstract

Background: Postoperative infections remain a significant complication following emergency caesarean deliveries (CD). This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of a single-dose adjunctive azithromycin as prophylaxis in reducing postoperative infections. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 46 women undergoing emergency CD. Participants were divided into two groups: one receiving standard prophylaxis (cefazolin) and another receiving an additional single-dose azithromycin. Postoperative infectious outcomes were measured over a 10-day period. Results: Postoperative infection rates were significantly lower in the azithromycin group (9.1%) compared to the control group (33.3%) (Odds Ratio [OR] = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.04–0.96). No significant adverse reactions were noted. Conclusion: Adjunctive azithromycin with standard antibiotic prophylaxis is a safe and effective strategy to reduce infections following emergency caesarean delivery.