A number of RCTs, including a previous CRE study, have shown that long-term azithromycin reduces the rate of bronchiectasis exacerbations in both children and adults. However, these studies have varied in the duration of antibiotic treatment, with inconsistent and wide-ranging lengths of treatment. Azithromycin is regularly used for the treatment of bronchiectasis, however the optimal duration of treatment is unknown and this knowledge is of major clinical importance.

Aim

The aim of this study is to evaluate clinical outcomes in relation to the duration of azithromycin use.

Approach

Using the database from the previous study, a secondary analysis will be undertaken to evaluate acute exacerbations over time and to examine factors associated with this. This will include an analysis of swab bacteria and antimicrobial resistance, as previously described. This will also be analysed in relation to two CRE projects (PETAL and PARROT) that are investigating long-term azithromycin use.

This study is funded through the AusBREATHE CRE.