Azithromycin

Description

Azithromycin is an antibiotic medication used to treat a wide range of bacteria

l infections, including throat infections, ear infections, chest and lung infections (such as pneumonia and bronchitis), skin infections, and certain sexually transmitted diseases. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria, helping the body fight off the infection effectively. Azithromycin should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily, with or without food. To achieve the best results, it’s essential to complete the full course, even if you start feeling better, as stopping early may cause the infection to return or become resistant to treatment.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

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

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

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

Pregnancy

Can I take Azithromycin during pregnancy?

The safety of Azithromycin during pregnancy has yet to be established. Azithromycin is not recommended 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 for 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 get behind the wheel.

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 the use of migraine medicines like Ergotamine along with Azithromycin
You have myasthenia gravis
When and how to consume medicine - Food decreases the absorption of Azithromycin. Hence, Azithromycin should be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after food

Mode of Action

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

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...
Read more
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 problems of the heart
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

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

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Ravindra Ghongade

B. Pharm

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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.

Q: What is Azithromycin used for?

A: Azithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections like chest infections, throat and ear infections, sinusitis, skin infections, and some sexually transmitted infections.

Q: What are the common side effects of Azithromycin?

A: You may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or headache. These are usually mild and temporary.

Q: Can I take Azithromycin with other medicines?

A: Some medicines like antacids, warfarin, digoxin, or certain heart medicines may interact with Azithromycin. Always inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking.

References

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Last Updated on: 15 Sep 2025 | 04:13 PM (IST)

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Disclaimer

The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.