Can azithromycin be taken for a sore throat caused by the common cold?

Generally, azithromycin can be taken for a sore throat caused by the common cold. However, if the cold is caused by infections such as adenovirus, rubella virus, or Coxsackie virus, taking azithromycin is generally not recommended. It is advisable to take medication under the guidance of a qualified physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Azithromycin is an antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis and exerts certain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. A cold may result from factors such as exposure to cold, excessive fatigue, or staphylococcal infection, leading to symptoms like runny nose and sore throat. Under a doctor's supervision, azithromycin may be used to help alleviate these symptoms.

If the cold is caused by viral infections such as adenovirus, rubella virus, or Coxsackie virus, azithromycin is generally not recommended. Instead, antiviral medications should be used as directed by a physician, such as antiviral oral liquid, Lianhua Qingwen capsules, or Ganmaoling granules.

During treatment, attention should be paid to proper medication dosage, and drugs should not be discontinued arbitrarily to avoid unnecessary harm to the body. Additionally, a light diet is recommended, avoiding spicy and irritating foods such as chili peppers and onions, which can support recovery.