Indications 

Zithromax, an antibiotic with bactericidal properties, is employed for the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections encompassing respiratory, cutaneous, aural, and sexually transmitted infections. 

In order to mitigate the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria, exercise caution with the use of Zithromax, reserving its administration exclusively for infections that have been verified or are highly suspected to be caused by bacteria susceptible to its therapeutic effects. 

Uses and Dosage 

Prior to commencing azithromycin treatment and upon each refill, read the Patient Information Leaflet, if made available by your pharmacist. Should any queries arise, kindly consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification. 

Administer this medication orally in accordance with the instructions provided by your doctor, generally once daily, with or without food. In the event of stomach discomfort, concurrent consumption of food is permissible. The prescribed dosage is contingent upon your medical condition and response to treatment. 

To optimize therapeutic efficacy, ensure the antibiotic is taken at regular intervals throughout the day. Establishing a consistent schedule by ingesting the medication at the same designated time(s) daily will aid in ensuring adherence. 

Continue taking the prescribed medication until the entire prescribed quantity is consumed, even if symptoms dissipate within a few days. Ceasing the medication prematurely may allow bacteria to persist and propagate, potentially resulting in a recurrence of the infection. 

Please note that antacids containing aluminum or magnesium have the potential to impede the absorption of azithromycin when taken concurrently. Consequently, if you are taking an antacid containing aluminum or magnesium, observe a minimum interval of 2 hours before or after ingesting azithromycin. 

In the event that your condition persists or worsens, inform your doctor promptly. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reaction

In case of an allergic reaction to Zithromax, prompt medical assistance should be sought. Look out for the following signs: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling in the face or throat 

Severe Side Effects

Similarly, if you experience a severe skin reaction, seek medical attention. Be vigilant for the following symptoms: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Burning sensation in the eyes 
• Skin pain 
• Red or purple skin rash that spreads, blisters, and causes peeling 

Should you encounter a serious drug reaction affecting multiple body parts, pursue medical treatment. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms: 

• Skin rash 
• Fever 
• Swollen glands 
• Flu-like symptoms 
• Muscle aches 
• Severe weakness 
• Unusual bruising 
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes 

Be aware that this reaction may manifest several weeks after initiating Zithromax usage. 

Immediate contact with your doctor is necessary if you experience any of the following: 

• Severe stomach pain 
• Watery or bloody diarrhea 
• Fast or pounding heartbeats 
• Fluttering in the chest 
• Shortness of breath and sudden dizziness, resembling a potential loss of consciousness 
• Symptoms of liver problems such as nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, fatigue, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• If a baby who is taking Zithromax becomes irritable or vomits while eating or nursing 

Common Side Effects

Common side effects of Zithromax may include: 

• Diarrhea 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Stomach pain 
• Headache 

Caution 

Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, or a specific muscle disorder called myasthenia gravis. 

Azithromycin has the potential to cause an alteration in heart rhythm known as QT prolongation. In rare cases, QT prolongation can lead to serious, and occasionally fatal, episodes of rapid or irregular heartbeat, accompanied by symptoms such as severe dizziness or fainting, which require immediate medical attention. 

Azithromycin may interfere with the efficacy of live bacterial vaccines, such as the typhoid vaccine. Therefore, inform your healthcare professional about your use of azithromycin prior to undergoing any immunizations or vaccinations. 

Before undergoing any surgical procedures, inform your doctor or dentist about all the medications you are currently using, including prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, and herbal products. 

Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medication, particularly QT prolongation (as mentioned above). 

During pregnancy, azithromycin should only be used if clearly necessary, and the risks and benefits should be discussed with your doctor. 

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using azithromycin.