Telithromycin: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
KETEK tablets are indicated for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia (of mild to moderate severity) due to Streptococcus pneumoniae , (including multi-drug resistant isolates [MDRSPMDRSP, Multi-drug resistant St
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label ba1cca98…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
| Adverse reaction (as reported in labeling) | Reported frequency* |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea | 10.8% |
| Nausea | 7.9% |
| Headache | 5.8% |
| Dizziness (excl. vertigo) | 3.7% |
| Dysgeusia | 3.6% |
| Vomiting | 2.9% |
| Loose stools | 2.3% |
*Highest percentage reported for the active moiety across placebo-controlled trial tables in current FDA labeling. Values reflect trial reporting, not your individual risk.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
KETEK tablets are indicated for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia (of mild to moderate severity) due to Streptococcus pneumoniae , (including multi-drug resistant isolates [MDRSPMDRSP, Multi-drug resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae includes isolates known as PRSP (penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae ), and are isolates resistant to two or more of the following antibiotics: penicillin, 2nd generation cephalosporins, e.g., cefuroxime, macrolides, tetracyclines and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. ]), Haemophilus influenzae , Moraxella catarrhalis , Chlamydophila pneumoniae , or Mycoplasma pneumoniae , for patients 18 years old and above. To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of KETEK and other antibacterial drugs, KETEK should be used only to treat infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.
Conditions associated with Telithromycin in labeling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Telithromycin used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Telithromycin?
The table above shows adverse reactions and the highest frequencies reported in placebo-controlled trials summarized in current FDA labeling for Telithromycin. Individual risk varies.
Does Telithromycin require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Telithromycin.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.