Information about Azythromycin (Generic Zithromax) :


Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. It slows the growth and kills bacteria. This antibiotic is usually administered to treat bacterial infections, such as respiratory infections, skin infections, ear infections, and sexually transmitted diseases.

It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

You should not use Azithromycin in case you are allergic to it or to similar medicines such as erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, E.E.S.), clarithromycin (Biaxin), or other macrolide antibiotics.

Before using Azithromycin you should tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions listed below: liver disease; kidney disease; a heart rhythm disorder; or a history of Long QT syndrome. In such cases you may not be able to use Azithromycin, or you may need a special dosage adjustment or tests during the course of treatment.

Be aware that Azithromycin may interact with some medicines. Consult with your health care provider in case you are taking any other drugs, especially any of the following: antacids; astemizole; digoxin; dihydroergotamine; ergotamine; magnesium salts; terfenadine; triazolam; warfarin.

Azithromycin is in FDA pregnancy category B. It means that this medicine is not deleterious to an unborn baby. Consult with your doctor in case you are pregnant or plan pregnancy during treatment. Avoid breast-feeding a baby without medical consultation while taking Azithromycin.

How to take Azithromycin:
Take this medication as it recommended by your doctor. Azithromycin capsules should be taken on an empty stomach with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. The capsule should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating a meal. Azithromycin tablets or powder oral suspension may be taken with or without food. Take the tablet or oral suspension with food if the medicine upsets your stomach.

You should not take Azithromycin at the same time as taking an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium (Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others), as it may decrease the effectiveness of this antibiotic.

Keep this medication at indoor temperature away from moisture and heat. It is recommended to throw away any unused liquid medicine after 10 days.

What happens if I miss a dose?
In case you miss a dose of Azithromycin, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next intake, skip the missed dose and take it according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take double doses to catch up.

What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention in case overdose is suspected. Symptoms of overdosage are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort.

Possible side effects of Azithromycin:
Get emergency medical help in case you experience any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using Azithromycin and consult with your doctor immediately in case you have any of these serious side effects: diarrhea that is watery or bloody; chest pain, uneven heartbeats; or nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

You should consult with your doctor in case you have any of side effects especially bothersome listed below: mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or stomach pain; dizziness, tired feeling, or headache; vaginal itching or discharge; or mild itching or skin rash.

What is the expiration date of the pills?
This information is mentioned on each blister. The expiration date is 2 years from the date of manufacture.