Azithromycin

Uses of Azithromycin

Azithromycin is an antibiotic that treats various bacterial infections, including chest infections (pneumonia), sinusitis, some STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), Lyme disease, and skin infections. It belongs to a class of drugs called Macrolides, which kills the bacteria that cause the mentioned infections or inhibit their growth within the body.

Azithromycin is available under the brand names Azasite and Zithromax.

Precautions and Warnings

Do not use Azithromycin if you are allergic to it. Taking this medicine may cause QT prolongation (irregular heart rhythm). Call for immediate medical attention if you experience irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, or fainting.

To ensure that Azithromycin is safe to use, tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of the following conditions:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Myasthenia gravis (muscle disease)
• Heart rhythm disorder

Azithromycin Dosage

Azithromycin comes in oral tablet form. It is available in different strengths, such as 250 mg, 500 mg, and 600 mg. The following includes the recommended dosage of Azithromycin for different types of infections:

Bronchitis/Pneumonia:

• Doctors recommend 500 mg once daily for three days. Another prescription involves taking 500 mg on the first day, followed by 250 mg orally once daily on subsequent days.

Sinusitis:

• The usual dosage recommendation is 500 mg once daily for three days.

Skin infections and Pharyngitis/Tonsilitis:

• The prescription may involve taking 500 mg on the first day, followed by 250 mg orally once daily on subsequent days.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Headache
• Dizziness

Severe side effects:

• Severe stomachache
• Fast heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Itchiness
• Tiredness
• Loss of appetite