Azithromycin

What is Azithromycin?

Azithromycin is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial that belongs to a group of antimicrobial agents known as macrolides. It is a derivative of erythromycin that is effective against gram-negative as well as gram-positive bacteria. It is useful in treating numerous infections for e.g lyme disease, pneumonia, sinus infection, ear infections, chlamydia etc.

How does it work?

It works by inhibiting the protein synthesis by targeting the bacterial ribosome. Its mechanism of action is very different to the beta-lactam antibiotics like penicillin, hence it exhibits an inhibitory action against a significant number of bacteria.

Is Azithromycin right for me?

Azithromycin is prescribed to treat a variety of bacterial infections. The prescriber needs to decide if it's suitable for an individual's contracted infection and the length of the treatment. There are instances where azithromycin may not be suitable, which are as follows:

• If you are allergic to Azithromycin or any other macrolides

• If you have kidney or liver problems

• Pregnant and/or breastfeeding

• Suffer with myasthenia gravis

• Taking ergot derivatives such as ergotamine

The product images shown may represent the range of products, or be for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the product.

All medications can cause potential side effects, below we have listed some potential side effects, however these do not always occur.

• Diarrhoea

• Abdominal pain

• Nausea

• Flatulence

• Lack of appetite

• Feeling dizzy

• Headache

• Tingly sensation or numbness

• Changes in your sense of taste

• Vision impairment

• Deafness

• Vomiting, stomach pain or other digestion problems

• Skin rashes and itching

• Joint pain

• Fatigue

Disclaimer: This website does not constitute medical advice, you should also consult with a doctor before taking medication. If you experience any major reactions to any medication you are taking, you must seek immediate medical attention.

To view Azithromycin Patient Leaflet click here.

To view PDF patient leaflet click here.

Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic. It fights bacteria in your body. Azithromycin is used to treat many different types of infections, such as respiratory infections, skin infections, ear infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. Azithromycin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

DO NOT use Azithromycin if:

• If you are allergic to erythromycin or clarithromycin 
• If you have ever had jaundice or liver problems
• If you have or had kidney disease
• Myasthenia gravis
• A heart rhythm disorder or long QT syndrome (in you or a family member).

Importance of Taking it as Directed

It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you do not take it as directed, your infection may not improve, and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.

Azithromycin is usually taken for 3 to 5 days. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

To treat gonorrhoea, Azithromycin is usually given as a single dose. If you have chlamydia, Azithromycin is usually taken as a single dose of two pills (1 gram). For other infections, Azithromycin is usually taken once daily.

You may take most forms of Azithromycin with or without food. Take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take antacids that contain aluminium or magnesium within 2 hours before or after you take Azithromycin. Some antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb Azithromycin.

Viral infection and Azithromycin

Azithromycin will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared, however continue to finish the prescribed course. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics. 

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse within the first few days of treatment. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. In rare cases, Azithromycin may cause a severe heart problem (QT prolongation in the EKG). This could lead to irregular heartbeat and other symptoms. Call your doctor at once if you have, severe stomach pain, diarrhoea that is watery or bloody, fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness (like you might pass out).

This is not a complete list of warnings, please get in touch with a healthcare professional if you need additional advice.