ZITHROMAX – Azithromycin

Zithromax Used For

Zithromax (Azithromycin) is in a class of drugs called macrolide antibiotics that are prescribed for the treatment of different types of bacterial infections, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, tonsillitis, skin infections, ear infections, and sexually transmitted diseases.

Directions for Zithromax

Following is the recommended dosage of Zithromax for treatment of various types of infections: For bronchitis, strep throat, pneumonia, and skin infections - adults and adolescents 16 years of age and older can be started on 500 mg on the first day, then titrated to 250 mg once a day on days two through five. For chlamydia infections, 1000 mg of Zithromax may be administered once as a single dose to adults and adolescents up to 16 years of age or older. To prevent Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) disease, adults and adolescents 16 years of age and older can be given 1200 mg once a week, while for sinusitis, adults and adolescents can be administered 500 mg a day for 3 days. For children up to 16 years of age, use and dose of Zithromax for all of the above conditions must be determined by the doctor.

How Zithromax antibiotic works

Zithromax must be taken on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. If you have liver disease and are prescribed Zithromax, you should inform your doctor about your condition immediately as it may require special dosage and/or monitoring. This medication should not be taken close to a dose of an antacid containing aluminum or magnesium as these antacids may decrease the effects of Zithromax. Prolonged exposure to sunlight should also be avoided as Zithromax may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight. It is advisable to use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing where exposure to the sun is unavoidable.

Zithromax side effects

As with all other medications, Zithromax also has its side effects which may or may not include any or all of the following: liver damage (yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe fatigue), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, unusual dizziness, fatigue, headache, vaginal yeast infection, rashes, and/or increased sensitivity to sunlight. Seek immediate medical attention if any of the above side effects become aggravated or cause undue discomfort.

Other Zithromax Azithromycin Information

Zithromax tablets may be split and taken at half the dose.