Using azithromycin to help prevent preterm birth in at-risk pregnancies

Azithromycin to Improve Latency in Exam Indicated Cerclage: a Randomized Control Trial

Phase 4 Interventional Thomas Jefferson University · NCT05132829

This study is testing if giving the antibiotic azithromycin to pregnant women at risk of preterm birth can help them carry their babies longer before delivery.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexFemale
SponsorThomas Jefferson University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Chicago, Illinois and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05132829 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of azithromycin, an antibiotic, in prolonging gestation when administered prior to an exam indicated cerclage in pregnant women at risk of preterm birth. The study focuses on women with singleton pregnancies who meet specific criteria for cervical cerclage placement due to cervical insufficiency. By investigating the role of antibiotics in this context, the trial aims to address a gap in current obstetric practices regarding preterm birth prevention. The methodology includes administering azithromycin alongside other treatments like cefazolin and indomethacin to assess their combined impact on pregnancy duration.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are pregnant women aged 18 and older with singleton pregnancies and an estimated gestational age of less than 24 weeks who qualify for an exam indicated cerclage.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those with HIV, major fetal congenital anomalies, or contraindications to the study medications.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved strategies for preventing preterm birth, potentially reducing neonatal morbidity and mortality.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown some success with similar approaches, particularly in the context of using antibiotics to prolong pregnancy in at-risk populations.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant women with singleton pregnancies
* ≥18 years old
* Estimated gestational age less than 24 weeks
* Meet criteria for an exam indicated cerclage
* Patients must also be able to provide consent, demonstrate an understanding of the purpose of the study, and agree to the study protocol.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive status
* Known prolonged QT syndrome
* Major fetal congenital anomalies
* Temperature of 100.4 F or higher
* Prior cerclage during the current pregnancy
* Contraindication to indomethacin
* Allergy to both penicillin and clindamycin
* Received indomethacin or any antibiotics within 7 days before their presentation

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Preterm BirthObstetric Labor, PrematureObstetric Labor ComplicationsPregnancy ComplicationsPhysiological Effects of DrugsUterine Cervical IncompetenceAnti-Bacterial AgentsAzithromycin
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.