Zithromax (Azithromycin)

Do’s

• Before starting Zithromax treatment, read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, consult your healthcare provider.
• Take this medication orally as directed by your healthcare provider, typically once daily with or without food. If you experience stomach upset, you can take it with food.
• The specific dosage will be determined based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• For optimal effectiveness, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.
• Continue taking this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms improve after a few days. Ceasing the medication prematurely may lead to a recurrence of the infection.
• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium may reduce the absorption of azithromycin if taken concurrently. If you take an antacid containing these substances, wait at least 2 hours before or after taking Zithromax.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition persists or worsens during the course of treatment.

Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Rash
• Dry skin
• Sun sensitivity
• Heart palpitations or chest pain
• Acid reflux
• Dizziness
• Vaginitis

Less Common Side Effects:

• Liver problems (nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice)
• Heart rhythm issues, particularly in older adults
• Allergic reactions with symptoms such as skin, tongue, or lips turning blue, grey, or pale, confusion, drowsiness, dizziness, fainting, and rash that's swollen, raised, itchy, blistered, or peeling

These lists are not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking Zithromax, seek medical advice promptly.

A study reported an increase in cardiovascular deaths and the risk of death from any cause in persons treated with a 5-day course of azithromycin compared to other antibacterial drugs.

Serious allergic reactions, including angioedema, anaphylaxis, and dermatologic reactions, have been reported in patients on Zithromax therapy. Fatalities have also been reported.

Zithromax is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin, or any macrolide or ketolide drugs.

Zithromax should not be used if you have ever had jaundice or liver problems caused by taking azithromycin.

Consult a healthcare provider before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment, as Zithromax may interact with other drugs.

Adverse reactions experienced in higher than recommended doses were similar to those seen at normal doses, particularly nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. In the event of overdosage, general symptomatic and supportive measures are indicated as required.

Consult a healthcare provider before taking Zithromax and follow their guidance closely. If you have any concerns or experience any adverse effects while taking this medication, seek medical attention promptly.