Azithromycin tablets
What do azithromycin tablets do?
AZITHROMYCIN (Zithromax(R)) 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.
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 TABLETS by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water. Azithromycin tablets can be taken with or without food. 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 other medicines can 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