Azithromycin Versus Erythromycin For Preterm Prelabor Rupture of Membranes

Significant differences exist in the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics pathways of macrolide antibiotics between different races and ethnicities. Erythromycin compared to azithromycin interacts with more proteins and is likely affected by genetic variation. Therefore, the investigators hypothesize that the optimal latency antibiotic regimens for PPROM could potentially differ between races. Due to the paucity of data regarding the use of an azithromycin regimen for latency antibiotics, the Eastern Virginia Medical School MFM team uses an erythromycin regimen even though azithromycin requires less frequent dosing, has lower rates of side effects, and is more cost effective. The Center for Maternal and Child Health Equity at Eastern Virginia Medical School was developed to address health disparities for mothers and their children, and the investigator team is committed to working with the center to address this research gap regarding latency antibiotic use in PPROM. The aim is to determine the optimal antibiotic regimen for women with PPROM. The hypothesis to be tested are 1) The antibiotic regimen with azithromycin (iv for 2 days followed by 5 days orally) is associated with a longer latency period compared to the antibiotic regimen with erythromycin, and 2) The antibiotic regimen with azithromycin reduces disparity in latency period compared to the antibiotic regimen with erythromycin.