What is Zithromax?
Zithromax (Azithromycin) is prescribed for common bacterial infections such as respiratory infections, pneumonia, bronchitis, STDs. Azithromycin falls under the category of macrolide, a class of antibiotics that heals bacterial infection by stunting its growth.
If you are using Zithromax for viral infections, then you might be barking up the wrong tree because it works only for bacterial infections.
What are the Uses of Zithromax?
Zithromax is prescribed to a person above 18 for the following reasons:
- chronic bronchitis
- Various types of skin infection caused by bacteria
- Infected throat or tonsils
- Sinus infection
- Infections in the urethra or cervix
- Ulcers in the genital area in men
- Pneumonia
For children, the uses of Zithromax are in the following cases:
- Infected throats
- Bacterial infection in the ear
- community-acquired pneumonia
All uses and Benefits of Zithromax is not listed here. It can be used for more causes that are not mentioned in the above list.
Zithromax Dosages & Forms
Zithromax is available in 3 dosages and forms:
- Zithromax 250mg is available in the form of a film-coated tablet with engravings on both sides. These come in bottles or blister cards containing 6 tablets each.
- Zithromax 500mg is available in the form of pink tablets that have film coatings and engravings on both sides. These come in bottles and blister packs containing 3 tablets each.
- Zithromax Oral Suspension is available in doses of 100mg/5ml and 200mg/5ml.
How to administer Zithromax?
You must take Zithromax exactly as your physician prescribed you. If you are administering Zithromax 500mg or Zithromax 250mg in the tablet form, then gulp it down with water.
If you are using Azithromycin oral suspension, pay close attention to the dosage you are taking.
This medicine can be administered with or without food. In case of an upset stomach, consuming a light meal before the medicine is recommended.
Who should not take Zithromax?
Zithromax might not be suitable for the following cases:
- Persons allergic to azithromycin, macrolides or ketolides
- In the case of hospital-acquired infections
- Very elderly persons
- Have immunity related issues
- Having cystic fibrosis
- Women who are breastfeeding
Precautions
- Before taking Zithromax, tell you, doctor, if you are allergic to Azithromycin, or any other antibiotics like erythromycin, telithromycin, clarithromycin.
- Disclose any liver or kidney disease to your doctor before taking this medicine
- If you are on the medication for QT prolongation
- In case you have myasthenia gravis (weak muscles)
Interactions
Albuterol
Using Zithromax along with albuterol can increase irregular heartbeat. This interaction might be life-threatening for people having long QT syndrome (LQTS).
Nelfinavir
If it is co-administered with Zithromax, then it might result in an increased concentration of azithromycin serum. This interaction might lead to hearing impairment and abnormalities in the production of liver enzymes.
Warfarin
Interaction between Warfarin and Zithromax dosage might make you more prone to bleeding. You may also experience blood in vomit, urine, or stool.
Zoloft
Zoloft (sertraline), if taken with Zithromax, might cause an irregular heartbeat rate. In rare cases, this can be life-threatening. If you experience dizziness, lightheadedness, or nausea, contact the doctor immediately.
Missed Dosage and Overdose
If you miss a dose of Zithromax, then take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost the time for the next dosage, then forget the missed dosage and take the next one. Never take two pills at once just for the sake of catching up.
In case of overdose, visit a hospital without any delay.
Storage
Store Zithromax in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Avoid storing it in spaces that have high moisture content, e.g., bathroom, fridge, kitchen.
Side effects of Zithromax
Azithromycin may have side effects. If any of the following symptoms happen, let your doctor know at the earliest.
- Abdominal pain
- Upset stomach
- Loose stool, watery or bloody
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Note: Do not stop, increase, or alter Zithromax dosage by yourself. In case of any of the above-stated side effects, consult a doctor to plan further course of action.