Zithromax

Generic name: Azithromycin

What is Zithromax?

Zithromax is a macrolide antibiotic which treats the bacterial infections that can cause pneumonia, infections of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sinus infections, throat or tonsil infections, skin infections, infections of the urethra or cervix, genital ulcer disease, or ear infections.

What is the most important information I should know about Zithromax?

Zithromax can cause severe and life-threatening allergic reactions that require immediate medical attention. If you experience any difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or neck, as well as any type of rash or skin reaction, contact your doctor immediately. Taking antibiotics may increase your chances of getting another infection of the gut called pseudomembranous colitis. Tell your doctor right away if you experience any type of diarrhea or severe abdominal pain while taking Zithromax. You should use caution when taking Zithromax if you have kidney or liver problems. This drug may cause life-threatening irregular heartbeats.

Who should not take Zithromax?

You should not take Zithromax if you are allergic or sensitive to any other macrolide antibiotic or erythromycin.

It should also be avoided in any patients with pneumonia or those who cannot swallow or take medications orally due to moderate-to-severe illness or risk factors such as cystic fibrosis; patients with nosocomially acquired infections; patients with known or suspected bacteremia; patients requiring hospitalization; elderly or debilitated patients; or patients with significant underlying health problems that may compromise their ability to respond to their illness.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Zithromax?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Zithromax. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver or severe kidney disease; heart problems, including irregular heartbeats; cystic fibrosis; an infection from a hospital or nursing home; an infection in your blood; or you are hospitalized, elderly, debilitated, or have a weakened immune system.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Acute Bacterial Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (Mild to Moderate)

Adults: The usual dose is 500 milligrams (mg) taken once a day for 3 days, or 500 mg as a single dose on Day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on Days 2 through 5.

Acute Bacterial Sinusitis

Adults: The usual dose is 500 mg taken once a day for 3 days.

Children (oral suspension): The usual dose is 10 mg per 2.2 pounds of bodyweight once daily for 3 days.

Acute Otitis Media

Children (oral suspension): The usual dose is 30 mg per 2.2 pounds of bodyweight given as a single dose, or 10 mg per 2.2 pounds of bodyweight given once daily for 3 days, or 10 mg per 2.2 pounds of bodyweight given as a single dose on the first day followed by 5 mg per 2.2 pounds of bodyweight per day on Days 2 through 5.

Community-Acquired Pneumonia (Mild Severity), Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis (Second-Line Therapy), or Skin/Skin Structure (Uncomplicated)

Adults: The usual dose is 500 mg as a single dose on Day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on Days 2 through 5.

Children (oral suspension), for community-acquired pneumonia:

The usual dose is 10 mg per 2.2 pounds of bodyweight as a single dose on the first day, followed by 5 mg per 2.2 pounds of bodyweight per day on Days 2 through 5.

Genital Ulcer Disease (Chancroid)

Adults: The usual dose is one single 1 gram (g) dose.

Gonococcal Urethritis and Cervicitis

Adults: The usual dose is one single 2 g dose.

Non-Gonoccocal Urethritis and Cervicitis

Adults: The usual dose is one single 1 g dose.

How should I take Zithromax?

Zithromax should be taken at the same time every day and can be taken with or without food.

What should I avoid while taking Zithromax?

You should not take aluminum- or magnesium-containing antacids with Zithromax.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Zithromax?

If Zithromax is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zithromax with the following: cyclosporine, digoxin, ergotamine or dihydroergotamine, hexobarbital, nelfinavir, phenytoin, terfenadine, or warfarin.

What are the possible side effects of Zithromax?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea

Can I receive Zithromax if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Zithromax during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Zithromax?

If you forget to take Zithromax, take it as soon as your remember. If it is closer to your next scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and take Zithromax according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double your doses.

How should I store Zithromax?

Zithromax tablets and Zithromax suspension should both be stored at room temperature.