Before using this drug
You should not take Zithromax if you are allergic to azithromycin:
- If taking Zithromax has ever resulted in jaundice or liver issues
- If are allergic to comparable medications such as Clarithromycin, Erythromycin, or Telithromycin
Before using Zithromax, notify your doctor if you've ever had any of the following conditions:
- Hepatitis
- Kidney Disease
- Myasthenia Gravis
- A cardiac rhythm problem
- A deficiency in potassium in the blood
- QTc prolongation (or a family member)
Zithromax is not likely to damage an unborn baby. Pregnant or planning to get pregnant? Be sure to tell your doctor.
It is not known if azithromycin goes into breast milk or whether it might affect a breastfeeding infant. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not administer Zithromax to a kid less than 6 months old.
What is the best way to take Zithromax?
Take Zithromax precisely as directed by your doctor. Follow all instructions on your prescription label. Do not use this medication in excess of the suggested dose or for an extended period of time. The dosage and time of therapy may not be the same for every kind of illness.
Taking Zithromax with or without meals is completely up to you.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid) thoroughly shortly before you measure a dosage. Measure liquid medication using the dosage syringe supplied, or with a specific dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. Ask your pharmacist for a dose-measuring equipment if you don't have one already.
Use this drug for the whole advised period of time. Your symptoms may improve before the illness is totally eradicated. Skipping doses may also raise your chance of subsequent illness that is resistant to treatments. Zithromax will not treat a viral illness such as the flu or a common cold.
Keep dry and away from moisture and heat. After ten days, discard any unused liquid medicine.
What to avoid
Avoid using aluminum or magnesium-containing antacids for at least two hours before or after taking Zithromax. This includes Acid Gone, Aldroxicon, Alternagel, Di-Gel, Gaviscon, Gelusil, Genaton, Maalox, Maldroxal, Milk of Magnesia, Mintox, Mylagen, Mylanta, Pepcid Complete, Rolaids, Rulox, and others. These antacids may make Zithromax less effective when taken at the same time.
Antibiotics may produce diarrhea, which might be an indication of a new illness. If you get diarrhea that is watery or bloody, stop taking Zithromax and notify your doctor. Do not take anti-diarrhea drugs unless your doctor instructs you to.
Avoid using tanning beds or being out in the sun. Zithromax might make you sunburn more readily. Wear protective gear and wear sunscreen (SPF 30 or above) while you are outside.
What if I forget to take a dose?
Take the missing dosage immediately upon recall. If your next scheduled dosage is approaching, skip the missing dose. Do not take more medication to compensate for a missing dose.
What to avoid?
Avoid using antacids containing aluminum or magnesium for at least 2 hours before or after taking Zithromax. Acid Gone, Aldroxicon, Alternagel, Di-Gel, Gaviscon, Gelusil, Genaton, Maalox, Maldroxal, Milk of Magnesia, Mintox, Mylagen, Mylanta, Pepcid Complete, Rolaids, and Rulox are a few examples. When used with Zithromax, these antacids may reduce its effectiveness.
Antibiotics may produce diarrhea, which may indicate the presence of a new illness. If you have watery or bloody diarrhea, discontinue Zithromax and contact your doctor. Do not use anti-diarrhea medication unless directed to do so by your doctor.
Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun or tanning beds. Zithromax may increase your susceptibility to sunburn. When outside, use protective gear and apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher).
Zithromax side effects
Get immediate medical treatment if you develop indications of an allergic reaction to Zithromax or a severe skin response.
What other drugs will affect Zithromax?
Inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking and any that you begin or discontinue using:
- Nelfinavir
- Warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven are all blood thinners
This is not an exhaustive list. Ot her medications, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal items, may interact with azithromycin. This drug guide does not include all probable interactions.
FAQs
Zithromax is usually prescribed to treat bacterial infections, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and ear infections. It can also be used to prevent infections in people who are at risk of getting them, such as those with HIV or cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Zithromax is a macrolide antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
Common side effects of Zithromax include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. More serious side effects can include hearing loss, irregular heartbeat, and seizures. Zithromax can also cause allergic reactions in some people.
Zithromax is typically taken as a pill, but can also be given as an injection. It is important to follow the instructions of your doctor when taking Zithromax. Zithromax should be taken with food or milk to lessen stomach upset.
Zithromax can be used to treat strep throat. It is typically prescribed for 10 days. Zithromax is effective in treating strep throat because it stops the growth of bacteria.
There is no known interaction between Zithromax and alcohol. However, it is always best to consult with your doctor before taking Zithromax if you are also drinking alcohol.
There is no indication that Zithromax is harmful to take throughout pregnancy. However, it's usually a good idea to get permission from your doctor before taking any medicine while pregnant.