Description
Common use
Zithromax is a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic chemically related to erythromycin which is active against the majority of species of gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms such as genus Staphylococcus; S. aureus, S. pneumonia, S. pyogenes, S. agalactiae, Haemophilus influenza and parainfluenza, Moraxella catarrhalis, Bacteroides fragilis, Escherichia coli, Bordetella ssp., Borrelia burgdorferi, Haemophilus decree, Neisseria gonorrhoeae Chlamydia trachoma. In vitro, it showed activity against Legionella pneumophila, Mycoplasma pneumonia hominis, Helicobacter pylori, Toxoplasma gondii, Ureaplasma urealiticum. As a Macrolide antibiotic Zithromax inhibits bacterial protein synthesis and prevents bacteria from growth and propagation. It is used to treat infections of upper and low respiratory organs (tonsillitis, otitis, sinusitis, pneumonia), urogenital infections (urethritis, prostatitis, cervicitis, adnexitis caused by chlamydia, gonorrhoea, early syphilis), intestinal infections, ulcer of stomach and duodenum.
Dosage and directions
Take exactly as prescribed and do not discontinue your treatment even if you feel fine and your symptoms improved without the permission of your doctor. Take Zithromax tablet with a big glass of water. To prepare a liquid suspension form one dose packet mix one packet with 2 ounces of water, shake and drink at once. Do not use the suspension which was prepared longer than 12 hours ago. Tablets and suspension can be taken with or without food while capsules should be taken on an empty stomach 2 hours before or after a meal.
Precautions
There is no evidence if Zithromax affects an unborn baby or excretes in breast milk. This medication should be used in pregnant and breastfeeding women only if expected benefit prevails over potential risk for the baby.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to Zithromax and related drugs such as azithromycin or erythromycin.
Possible side effect
Among side effects may be:
• diarrhoea or loose stools
• nausea
• abdominal pain
• vomiting
• uneven heartbeats
• loss of appetite
• dark urine
• clay-coloured stools
• jaundice
• fever
• rash
• red skin
• headache
You should call your doctor and inform about such symptoms or get immediate medical attention.
Drug interaction
Zithromax is not recommended to take with aluminium- or magnesium- based antacids, such as Mylanta or Maalox as they decrease its absorption in the intestine.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose when you remember. If it is almost time of the next intake just skip it and return to your schedule.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may appear as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach discomfort. In this case, look for immediate medical attention.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59-77 F (15-25 C) away from light and moisture, kids and pets. Do not store the liquid longer than 10 days.
