Azithromycin
What It Is Used For
Azithromycin is an antibiotic. It treats bacterial infections of the chest (such as pneumonia and bronchitis), throat, sinuses, ears and skin, some sexually transmitted infections, and some cases of typhoid. It does not work for colds, flu or other viral infections.
How to Take It
A common adult course is 500 mg once a day for 3 days, but the dose and length depend on the infection, so follow your prescription. Children: dose by weight, usually once a day as suspension. Capsules are best taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after food; tablets can be taken with or without food. Finish the full course even if you feel better.
Who Should Not Take It
Do not take it if you are allergic to azithromycin, erythromycin or similar antibiotics, or if you had liver problems with azithromycin before.
Side Effects
Common: diarrhoea, nausea, stomach pain and vomiting. Rarely: an irregular heartbeat, liver problems (yellow eyes or skin, dark urine), hearing changes, serious skin reactions, or severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, even weeks later. See a doctor at once if these happen.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have a heart rhythm problem, low potassium or magnesium, liver disease or myasthenia gravis. Only take antibiotics prescribed for you; misuse makes bacteria resistant.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
It is sometimes used in pregnancy and breastfeeding when a doctor decides it is needed.
Interactions
Take antacids at least 2 hours apart. Medicines that affect heart rhythm (some antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and others), warfarin, digoxin, ciclosporin and ergotamine need care.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, out of the reach of children.
Checked by the Oshud Alo pharmacy team. For information only; follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Azithromycin