Generic Name: azithromycin (ay zih throw MYE sin).
Typical Brand Names: Zithromax, Zithromax TRI-PAK, Zithromax Z-Pak, Zmax
What Is It Used For?
Azithromycin is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria,
such as bronchitis; pneumonia; sexually transmitted diseases (STD);
and infections of the ears, lungs, skin, and throat. Azithromycin
is in a class of medications called macrolide antibiotics. It
works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics will not
work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.
How Is It Used?
Azithromycin comes as a tablet and oral suspension (liquid) to
take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food once a
day for 1-5 days. To help you remember to take azithromycin, take
it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your
prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist
to explain any part you do not understand. Take azithromycin exactly
as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often
than prescribed by your doctor.
Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication
evenly. Use only the syringe provided to measure the correct amount
of medication. Rinse the syringe with water after taking the full
dose of medication. The tablets should be taken with a full glass
of water.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
Serious side effects from azithromycin are unlikely to occur;
however an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of
your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives
or even liver damage).
Other less serious side effects nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or
abdominal pain, unusual dizziness, fatigue, or headache, vaginal
yeast infection, a rash; or increased sensitivity to sunlight.
Is It Safe?
Azithromycin is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that
it is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication
without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could
become pregnant during treatment.
What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Do not take azithromycin close to a dose of an antacid that contains
aluminum or magnesium such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of
Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others. These antacids may decrease
the effects of azithromycin.
You may not be able to take azithromycin, or you may require
a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if
you are taking any of these carbamazepin, phenytoin, warfarin,
digoxin medicines.
What If I Miss A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is
almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed
dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose
of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
How Should It Be Stored?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and
heat. Throw away any unused suspension after 10 days. Keep top
tightly closed.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Take all of the azithromycin that has been prescribed for you
even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve
before the infection is completely treated. Take azithromycin
on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Do not
take antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium within 2 hours
of taking azithromycin. It is important to take azithromycin regularly
to get the most benefit.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist,
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to
indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
taking the product.
