Azithromycin is a spent bullet for COVID-19. Studies have to date shown that there is no benefit but there is potential of harm in COVID-19 patients due to arrhythmias as a result of prolonged QT interval.
I used to use it if necessary with dose 500 mg for the first time and 250 mg for the next 4 days ! but I was surprised that there are many doctors prescribed it 500 mg for 5 days !
Clarythromycin has more power spectrum compare to Azithromycin but against bacteries, concerning viruses the mechanism is nowadays obscure. The answer could be yes if any hard prove is given that macrolides function against viruses.
Can we use another macrolide like clarithromycin instead of azithromycin?
Treatment of patients with COVID-19 with oral clarithromycin will substantially increase their anti-inflammatory properties and decrease the chances for development of severe respiratory failure.