Azithromycin

Generic Name: azithromycin

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Azithromycin

Azithromycin is a macrolide antibacterial drug available as an oral suspension. After constitution, each 5 mL contains either 100 mg or 200 mg of azithromycin.

Overview

Azithromycin is a macrolide antibacterial drug available as an oral suspension. After constitution, each 5 mL contains either 100 mg or 200 mg of azithromycin.

Uses

Indicated for mild to moderate infections including acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, acute bacterial sinusitis, community-acquired pneumonia, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, uncomplicated skin infections, urethritis and cervicitis, and acute otitis media in pediatric patients 6 months and older.

Dosage

Adults: 500 mg as a single dose on Day 1, then 250 mg daily for 4 days for most infections. Alternative regimens include 500 mg once daily for 3 days, or single 1-2 gram doses for urethritis/cervicitis. Pediatric dosing is weight-based, ranging from 10-30 mg/kg depending on indication and age.

Side Effects

Most common adverse reactions include diarrhea (5-14%), nausea (3-18%), abdominal pain (3-7%), and vomiting (2-7%). Other reactions include dyspepsia, rash, headache, and dizziness. Serious reactions include angioedema, anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, QT prolongation, and hepatotoxicity.

Interactions

Nelfinavir increases azithromycin serum concentrations; monitor for liver enzyme abnormalities and hearing impairment. Warfarin: concomitant use may potentiate effects; monitor prothrombin time. Potential interactions with digoxin, colchicine, or phenytoin warrant careful monitoring.

Warnings

Serious (including fatal) allergic and skin reactions may occur; discontinue if reaction occurs. Hepatotoxicity, infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in neonates, QT prolongation risk, Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea, and exacerbation of myasthenia gravis have been reported.

Pregnancy

Available data do not identify drug-associated risks for major birth defects or miscarriage. Animal studies showed no fetal malformations at doses up to 4 times the adult daily dose.

Storage

After mixing, store suspension at 5° to 30°C (41° to 86°F) and use within 10 days. Keep tightly closed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Azithromycin used for?

Indicated for mild to moderate infections including acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, acute bacterial sinusitis, community-acquired pneumonia, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, uncomplicated skin infections, urethritis and cervicitis, and acute otitis media in pediatric patients 6 months and older.

What are the side effects of Azithromycin?

Most common adverse reactions include diarrhea (5-14%), nausea (3-18%), abdominal pain (3-7%), and vomiting (2-7%). Other reactions include dyspepsia, rash, headache, and dizziness. Serious reactions include angioedema, anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, QT prolongation, and hepatotoxicity.

Can I take Azithromycin during pregnancy?

Available data do not identify drug-associated risks for major birth defects or miscarriage. Animal studies showed no fetal malformations at doses up to 4 times the adult daily dose.

What are the important warnings for Azithromycin?

Serious (including fatal) allergic and skin reactions may occur; discontinue if reaction occurs. Hepatotoxicity, infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in neonates, QT prolongation risk, Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea, and exacerbation of myasthenia gravis have been reported.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.