Azithromycin (Zithromax) oral suspension (immediate release)
What is azithromycin oral suspension?
AZITHROMYCIN (Zithromax®) is a macrolide antibiotic that interferes with the growth of bacterial cells. It is used to treat bacterial infections in many different parts of the body. Azithromycin also treats sexually transmitted vaginal or urinary tract infections caused by chlamydia. It will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections. Generic azithromycin oral suspension is not yet available.
What should my health care professional know before I take azithromycin?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
kidney disease
liver disease
pneumonia
stomach problems (especially colitis)
other chronic illness
an unusual or allergic reaction to azithromycin, other macrolide antibiotics (such as erythromycin), foods, dyes, or preservatives
breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take azithromycin ORAL SUSPENSION by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Empty the contents of a single-dose packet into two ounces of water (about one quarter of a full-glass). Mix and drink all the mixture at once. Add another two ounces of water to the glass, mix well and drink all of it, to make sure you take the full dose. Azithromycin ORAL SUSPENSION should be taken on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber’s advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. There should be an interval of at least 12 hours between doses.
What drug(s) may interact with azithromycin?
antacids
astemizole
digoxin
dihydroergotamine
ergotamine
magnesium salts
terfenadine
triazolam
warfarin
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking azithromycin?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Rare or uncommon:
dark yellow or brown urine
difficulty breathing
severe or watery diarrhea
skin rash, itching
irregular heartbeat, palpitations, or chest pain
vomiting
yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
diarrhea
dizziness, drowsiness
hearing loss
headache
increased sensitivity to the sun
nausea
stomach pain or cramps
tiredness
vaginal irritation, itching or discharge
What should I watch for while taking azithromycin?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve. Contact your prescriber or health care professional as soon as you can if you get an allergic reaction to azithromycin, such as rash, itching, difficulty swallowing, or swelling of the face, lips or tongue.
If you get severe or watery diarrhea, do not treat yourself. Call your prescriber or health care professional for advice.
Antacids can stop azithromycin from working. Do not take an antacid at the same time as azithromycin.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store the suspension between 5 - 30 degrees C (41 - 86 degrees F) for up to 10 days. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
[ Last Revised: 6/15/2005 5:09:00 PM ]
NOTE: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have questions about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.
Related entries
Syndicate
|
