About Zithromax

Zithromax, known under the generic name of azithromycin, is a prescriptive antibiotic which was derived from erythromycin. The medication is available in suspension and capsule forms to be administrated orally.

Uses or Indications

Zithromax is meant to kill infections resulting from harmful bacteria. Zithromax is usually prescribed to treat respiratory tract infections, sinus infections, pneumonia, mild-to-moderate skin infections, tonsillitis, pharyngitis and chronic pulmonary disease in adults. Besides, Zithromax is effective for treating genital ulcer in men and sexually transmitted infections of the cervical or urinary tract. The medication can also be taken by children to cure middle ear infection, pharyngitis, pneumonia and tonsillitis.

How to Use Zithromax

Take Zithromax capsules 1 hour before or 2 hours after having a meal. In case you take the pediatric suspension, you should shake the bottle properly and after that measure your dose using calibrated dropper. When using single-dose powder packets meant for oral suspension, you should dissolve the drug in 2 ounces of water and drink the mixture at once.

Even if you feel better, make sure you have completed the dosage schedule. Otherwise the bacteria will become resistant to the medication and make the future treatment more difficult.

Possible Side Effects

You may experience loose bowel movement, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting. Inform you doctor right away, once any of these side effects develops to a certain level of intensity.

Drug Precautions

• When pregnant or planning to be, ask your doctor before using Zithromax.
• The effect of Zithromax on the breast milk hasn`t been studied yet. Consult with your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
• In some rare cases Zithromax may cause such serious reactions as skin diseases, anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction which can be even fatal) and angioedema (swelling of the lips, neck and face that makes swallowing, breathing and speaking impossible). In case any of the mentioned symptoms persists, you should see your doctor immediately.
• If you suffer from persistent diarrhea while taking Zithromax, you should seek immediate medical assistance, as the drug may lead to pseudo membranous colitis.
• If you have allergy to similar medications, such as erythromycin, avoid taking Zithromax.
• An existing problem in liver will require you to undergo regular monitoring while using Zithromax.

Drug Interaction

Don`t combine Zithromax with magnesium or aluminum formulated antacids. Check with your doctor before mixing the medication with Phenytoin, Digoxin, Cyclosporine, Hexobarbital and Warfar.

Missed Dose

If you missed a dose of Zithromax, skip it and just resume your normal schedule. Never try to compensate by doubling the dose.

Overdose

While no information on Zithromax overdose is available, any medication taken in excess can be dangerous. Get medical attention at once if you suspect an overdose.

Storage

Zithromax should be stored at room temperature with a tight container, taking care not to expose to direct sunlight. Keep it out of children`s reach.