Azithromycin added to standard care for kids with severe malnutrition in Africa

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

The study targets children aged up to 11 years with uncomplicated severe acute malnutrition in sub-Saharan Africa. In a randomized trial, participants will receive either azithromycin, amoxicillin, or placebo, with follow-up to track weight gain, nutritional recovery, and gut microbiome changes. The goal is to see if a one-time or scheduled antibiotic can reduce mortality and improve clinical outcomes in this vulnerable group. The approach builds on prior findings that mass azithromycin reduced child mortality and aims to clarify the best antibiotic strategy for SAM in this setting. Results could inform future guidelines for antibiotic use in SAM to improve child health.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Washington University
  Saint Louis, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Oldenburg, Catherine Elizabeth — Washington University
• Study coordinator: Oldenburg, Catherine Elizabeth

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About this research

1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.