Azithromycin

Molecule Description

Azithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat several bacterial infections.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Azithromycin

Azithromycin is useful in the treatment of infections caused by bacteria like respiratory infections, sinusitis, pharyngitis/ tonsillitis, pneumonia, skin infections, ear infections, sexually transmit...

Contraindications of Azithromycin

When should one not use Azithromycin

Azithromycin is not to be used in patients with an allergic reaction to Azithromycin, Erythromycin, or any other macrolide or Ketolide antibiotics. It is contraindicated in patients with a history of ...

Side effects of Azithromycin

Common side effects of this drug are:

Dizziness
Mild stomach upset
Stomach ache
Nausea
Diarrhea
Headache
Loss of appetite
Sensation of pins and numbness
Visual impairment
Skin rash and itching
Joint pain
Irregular heartbeat
Low blood pressure
Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
Allergic skin reactions
Fatigue

Precautions and Warnings of Azithromycin

Pregnancy

Can I take Azithromycin during pregnancy?

The safety of Azithromycin during pregnancy is yet to establish. Azithromycin is not recommendable in pregnancy. Ask your doctor before taking this medicine.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Azithromycin while breastfeeding?

Azithromycin partially passes into human breast milk. If you are taking Azithromycin then stop breastfeeding your baby. It is advised to discard the milk during treatment and until two days after discontinuation of treatment. You can restart breastfeeding thereafter.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Azithromycin?

You may drive, but be sure you are not experiencing dizziness before you start driving.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Azithromycin?

No known interaction.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have liver or kidney issues
You have heart problems
Your blood levels of potassium or magnesium are too low
Avoid use of migraine medicines like Ergotamine along with Azithromycin
You have myasthenia gravis
When and how to consume medicine - Food decreases absorption of Azithromycin. Hence, Azithromycin should be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after food

Mode of Action of Azithromycin

How Does It Work?

Azithromycin prevents the growth of bacteria by interfering with their protein synthesis. It binds to a specific part of the bacterial nucleus and inhibits the process required for bacterial growth. T...

Interactions of Azithromycin

Interactions with other medicines

Antacids - Azithromycin should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after the antacid
Azithromycin interacts with blood thinners like Enoxaprin, Fondparinux, Heparin, and Warfarin. It also interacts with medications used to prevent blood clots such as Thrombin, Bivalirudin, Dalteparin
Terfenadine should not be taken at the same time as this may cause severe heart problems
Zidovudine or Nelfinavir are used to treat HIV infections. Taking these together should be avoided
Rifabutin - used to treat tuberculosis
Quinidine - used to treat rhythm of heart problems
Cyclosporin - used after an organ transplant. Your doctor will regularly check Cyclosporin levels in your blood and may change your dose

Interactions with food items

It interacts with grapefruit as both Azithromycin and grapefruit are broken down in the same way by the liver.

Dosage of Azithromycin

Overdose

Azithromycin overdose can cause diarrhea, dyspepsia, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting and if there is a case of an overdose, report to the nearest hospital immediately.

Missed a Dose

If you missed any dose, take is as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose, and take medicine at the next regular scheduled time. Do not take extra/ double medicin...

Q: Is Azithromycin the same as Erythromycin?

A: No. Both are different antibiotics belonging to the same class. Azithromycin is the next generation antibiotic of the Erythromycin class.

Q: What should I discuss with my physician before taking Azithromycin?

A: You must discuss your ongoing medicines, and history of allergies if any, with the physician.

References

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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