Zmax
Generic Name: Azithromycin
What is Zmax?
Zmax is an antibiotic used in adults to treat sinus infections. It is also used in adults and children ≥6 months to treat certain kinds of pneumonia.What is the most important information I should know about Zmax?
Zmax only works against bacteria; it does not work against viruses like the common cold or flu.Zmax is dosed differently from other antibiotics. You take just one dose, one time. On Day 1, Zmax starts working. On Days 2 and 3, you may not feel better right away. After Day 3, Zmax continues to work over time. If your symptoms are not better, call your doctor.
Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics and usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, people may develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibiotic. If this occurs, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Not taking the complete dose may decrease the effectiveness of the treatment and may increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by Zmax or other antibacterial drugs in the future.
Zmax may cause serious allergic reactions or serious skin reactions. Get emergency help right away if you or your child has hives, a skin rash, mouth sores, skin blistering or peeling, trouble swallowing, wheezing, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue or throat.
If you or your child vomits within 1 hour of taking Zmax, call your doctor right away to see if more medicine is needed. Do not give your child more Zmax unless your doctor tells you to.
Tell your doctor if you or your child experience an abnormal heart beat, dizziness, or feel faint. This has been seen with other antibiotics similar to Zmax.
Who should not take Zmax?
You should not take Zmax if you are allergic to antibiotics such as erythromycin or telithromycin. Also, do not take Zmax if you are allergic to anything in Zmax.Zmax has not been used in children <6 months.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Zmax?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Zmax, especially warfarin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver problems, myasthenia gravis, are pregnant, are planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.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.Adults: Zmax should be taken in a single 2-gram (g) dose.
Children ≥6 months: Zmax should be given as a single dose of 60 mg/kg (equivalent to 27 mg/lb) for children <75 lbs. The Zmax dose in mL is equivalent to the child's weight in pounds (1 mL/lb dose). If your child is within this age group and weighs >75 lbs, your child should receive the adult dose (2 g).
How should I take Zmax?
Shake well. It is recommended to take Zmax on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after eating). For adults, the entire contents of a bottle should be taken as one dose; for children, give the amount prescribed by your doctor and throw away the rest of the medicine. To ensure accurate dosing for children, use a dosing spoon, medicine syringe, or cup.You can take antacids with Zmax.
If you receive Zmax in liquid form, it is ready to take. If you receive Zmax as dry powder, you must prepare it before taking your prescribed dose. Add 1/4 cup of water to the Zmax bottle. Close tightly and shake thoroughly to mix it.
Give Zmax within 12 hours after it has been prepared by your pharmacy, or after you have added water to the powder.
What should I avoid while taking Zmax?
Zmax may cause you to become sunburned more easily. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Zmax. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Zmax?
If Zmax 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 Zmax with warfarin.What are the possible side effects of Zmax?
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: diarrhea/loose stools, headache (common in adults), nausea/vomiting, stomach pain
Can I receive Zmax if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Zmax 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 Zmax?
Zmax requires only a single dose. If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember.How should I store Zmax?
Keep the bottle tightly closed. Store at room temperature. Use within 12 hours of adding water to the bottle.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
