Azithromycin Dihydrate

Generic Name: azithromycin dihydrate

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Azithromycin Dihydrate

Azithromycin is a macrolide antibacterial drug for oral administration. Azithromycin tablets contain azithromycin dihydrate as the active ingredient.

Overview

Azithromycin is a macrolide antibacterial drug for oral administration. Azithromycin tablets contain azithromycin dihydrate as the active ingredient.

Uses

Azithromycin is indicated for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of designated microorganisms in specific conditions including community-acquired pneumonia, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, skin infections, and urinary tract infections.

Dosage

Adults: 500 mg single dose on Day 1, followed by 250 mg daily on Days 2 through 5 for most infections. Pediatric dosing is based on weight and age, with a minimum age of 6 months for most indications and 2 years for pharyngitis.

Side Effects

Most common adverse reactions are diarrhea (5% to 14%), nausea (3% to 18%), abdominal pain (3% to 7%), or vomiting (2% to 7%).

Interactions

Notable interactions with nelfinavir which may increase azithromycin concentrations, and warfarin which may potentiate anticoagulant effects. Monitor prothrombin time when used with warfarin.

Warnings

Serious allergic reactions including angioedema and anaphylaxis have been reported. Hepatotoxicity, including abnormal liver function, hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice, and hepatic necrosis may occur. Risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. May cause Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea. May exacerbate symptoms of myasthenia gravis.

Pregnancy

Available data from published literature have not identified any drug-associated risks for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Azithromycin Dihydrate used for?

Azithromycin is indicated for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of designated microorganisms in specific conditions including community-acquired pneumonia, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, skin infections, and urinary tract infections.

What are the side effects of Azithromycin Dihydrate?

Most common adverse reactions are diarrhea (5% to 14%), nausea (3% to 18%), abdominal pain (3% to 7%), or vomiting (2% to 7%).

Can I take Azithromycin Dihydrate during pregnancy?

Available data from published literature have not identified any drug-associated risks for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes.

What are the important warnings for Azithromycin Dihydrate?

Serious allergic reactions including angioedema and anaphylaxis have been reported. Hepatotoxicity, including abnormal liver function, hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice, and hepatic necrosis may occur. Risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. May cause Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea. May exacerbate symptoms of myasthenia gravis.

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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.