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Brand Name: Zithromax
Generic Name: Azithromycin
(az ith roe mye' sin)
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Why is zithromax prescribed?
Zithromax (Azithromycin) is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as bronchitis; pneumonia; sexually transmitted diseases (STD); and infections of the ears, lungs, skin, and throat. Zithromax is in a class of medications called macrolide antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.
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How should zithromax be used properly?
Azithromycin (Zithromax) comes as a tablet and oral suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food once a day for 1-5 days. To help you remember to take azithromycin, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take azithromycin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly. Use only the syringe provided to measure the correct amount of medication. Rinse the syringe with water after taking the full dose of medication.
The tablets should be taken with a full glass of water.
Take azithromycin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Stopping azithromycin too soon may cause bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics.
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What are the common uses for zithromax?
Azithromycin is also used sometimes to treat H. pylori.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses so be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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What special precautions should I follow when using zithromax?
Before taking azithromycin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to azithromycin, clarithromycin (Biaxin), dirithromycin (Dynabac), erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, Erythrocin), or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune); digoxin (Lanoxin); dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal); ergotamine (Ergomar); medications that suppress the immune system; nelfinavir (Viracept); phenytoin (Dilantin); and terfenadine (Seldane). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- if you take antacids (Mylanta, Maalox), take them 2 hours before or 4 hours after azithromycin.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had cystic fibrosis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), irregular heartbeat, or kidney or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking azithromycin, call your doctor.
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What special dietary instructions should I follow while taking zithromax?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
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What should I do if I forget a dose of zithromax?
You should take the missed dose of zithromax just as soon as you remember to take it. Unless, it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of your medication to make up for a missed one.
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What side effects can zithromax cause?
Azithromycin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- mild skin rash
- stomach pain
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- vomiting
Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- severe skin rash
- hoarseness
- itching
- hives
Azithromycin may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
» top What storage conditions are needed for zithromax?
Always keep the zithromax in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom.
Keep liquid medicine tightly closed at room temperature or in the refrigerator, and throw away any unused medication after 10 days. Remember not to freeze this mediction.
Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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What do I do in case of emergency or an zithromax overdose?
In case of an zithromax overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.
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What other information should I know about zithromax?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to azithromycin.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Your prescription is probably not refillable. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the azithromycin, call your doctor.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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