Using azithromycin to help treat severe malnutrition in children

Azithromycin as adjunctive treatment for uncomplicated severe acute malnutrition: the AMOUR trial

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10997402

This study is looking at whether adding azithromycin to the usual treatment helps children with severe acute malnutrition gain weight and get healthier, and it will involve kids in sub-Saharan Africa who are facing this challenge.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10997402 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of azithromycin as an additional treatment for children suffering from uncomplicated severe acute malnutrition (SAM). The study will randomly assign participants to receive either azithromycin, amoxicillin, or a placebo to assess improvements in weight gain, nutritional recovery, and gut health. By addressing potential underlying infections that may hinder recovery, the research aims to enhance treatment outcomes for these vulnerable children. The trial will take place in sub-Saharan Africa, where the burden of malnutrition is significant.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with uncomplicated severe acute malnutrition.

Not a fit: Patients with complicated severe acute malnutrition or those who are not within the specified age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery rates and reduced mortality for children with severe acute malnutrition.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown mixed results with antibiotics for malnutrition, but the use of azithromycin has demonstrated promise in reducing child mortality in similar populations.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.