The macrolide antibiotic azithromycin potently inhibits hepatitis E virus in cell culture models

Int J Antimicrob Agents. 2021 Sep;58(3):106383. doi: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2021.106383. Epub 2021 Jun 19.

Abstract

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in immunocompromised patients, pregnant women and children requires treatment; however, no approved medication is currently available. The macrolide antibiotic azithromycin has been identified as a potent HEV inhibitor. Azithromycin inhibits HEV replication and viral protein expression in multiple cell culture models with genotype 1 and 3 strains. This is largely independent of its induction of an interferon-like response. Because it is safe and cheap, repurposing azithromycin for treating HEV infection is attractive, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Keywords: Azithromycin; Hepatitis E virus; Interferon; Pregnant women.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology*
  • Antiviral Agents / pharmacology
  • Azithromycin / pharmacology*
  • Cells, Cultured / drug effects*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Drug Repositioning*
  • Female
  • Hepatitis E / drug therapy*
  • Hepatitis E virus / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Male
  • Pregnancy
  • Virus Replication / drug effects*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Antiviral Agents
  • Azithromycin