Zertalin 500 mg: Comprehensive Guide to Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Precautions
What are the primary uses of Zertalin 500 mg. How should patients take this medication. What are the potential side effects and warnings associated with Zertalin 500 mg. Is Zertalin safe for breastfeeding mothers. How does Zertalin compare to other antibiotics in its class.
Understanding Zertalin 500 mg: An Overview of Azithromycin
Zertalin 500 mg, also known by its generic name azithromycin, is a powerful antibiotic belonging to the macrolides class. First approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1991, this medication has become a cornerstone in the treatment of various bacterial infections. Its versatility and effectiveness have made it a popular choice among healthcare providers for addressing mild to moderate infections affecting different parts of the body.
Azithromycin’s mechanism of action involves inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, effectively stopping the growth and spread of harmful bacteria. However, it’s crucial to note that like all antibiotics, Zertalin is ineffective against viral infections and should not be used as a pain reliever.
Key Features of Zertalin 500 mg
- Broad-spectrum antibiotic
- Effective against many Streptococcus bacteria
- Available in various forms (tablet, oral suspension, eye drops, injection)
- Prescription-only medication
- Can be taken with or without food
Medical Conditions Treated by Zertalin 500 mg
Zertalin 500 mg is prescribed for a wide range of bacterial infections. Its ability to combat various pathogens makes it a versatile choice for healthcare providers. Here are some of the primary conditions for which Zertalin may be prescribed:
Respiratory Tract Infections
- Sinus infections (caused by Moraxella catarrhalis or Streptococcus pneumoniae)
- Community-acquired pneumonia (related to Chlamydia pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or S. pneumoniae)
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) complications
- Tonsillitis (caused by Streptococcus pyogenes)
Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
- Certain skin infections (related to Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, or Streptococcus agalactiae)
Genitourinary Infections
- Urethritis and cervicitis (caused by Chlamydia trachomatis)
- Chancroid genital ulcers in males (related to Haemophilus ducreyi)
Pediatric Infections
- Certain ear infections in children aged 6 months and older (such as those related to M. catarrhalis)
Are there any conditions for which Zertalin should not be used. Healthcare providers typically avoid prescribing Zertalin for pneumonia in patients with cystic fibrosis, hospital-acquired infections, bacteremia, or those requiring hospitalization. Additionally, older patients or those with significant underlying health problems, such as immune system disorders, may not be suitable candidates for Zertalin treatment in cases of pneumonia.
Dosage Guidelines for Zertalin 500 mg
The appropriate dosage of Zertalin 500 mg varies depending on the type and severity of the infection being treated. It’s crucial to follow the prescribing physician’s instructions carefully to ensure optimal treatment outcomes and minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance.
Common Dosage Regimens
- Community-acquired pneumonia, tonsillitis, and skin infections:
- Initial dose: 500 mg
- Followed by: 250 mg once daily until day 5
- Mild-to-moderate bacterial COPD exacerbations:
- Option 1: 500 mg per day for 3 days
- Option 2: Initial dose of 500 mg, followed by 250 mg once daily until day 5
- Sinus infections:
- 500 mg per day for 3 days
- Chancroid genital ulcers:
- A single dose of 1 gram (g)
- Urethritis and cervicitis:
- A single dose of 1 g
- Gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis:
- A single dose of 2 g
How should patients take Zertalin 500 mg. The medication can be taken with or without food. For those using the oral suspension form, it’s essential to shake the bottle thoroughly before each use to ensure proper distribution of the active ingredient.
Side Effects and Precautions Associated with Zertalin 500 mg
While Zertalin 500 mg is generally well-tolerated, like all medications, it can cause side effects in some patients. Understanding these potential adverse reactions is crucial for both healthcare providers and patients to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Common Side Effects
The most frequently reported side effects of Zertalin are gastrointestinal in nature. These include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
In clinical trials, only 0.7% of participants discontinued Zertalin due to side effects, primarily those affecting the gastrointestinal system.
Less Common Side Effects
Some patients may experience less frequent side effects, occurring in up to 1% of cases:
- Heart palpitations or chest pain
- Acid reflux
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Vaginitis
- Rash
- Dry skin
- Sun sensitivity
Serious Side Effects and Precautions
While rare, serious side effects can occur with Zertalin use. These may include:
- Liver damage (especially in patients with a history of liver problems)
- Heart rhythm changes (more likely in older patients, those taking heart rhythm medications, or individuals with low blood potassium)
- Severe allergic reactions
Patients with myasthenia gravis may experience worsening symptoms or breathing difficulties when taking Zertalin. Those with a history of allergic reactions to macrolides or ketolides should avoid this medication.
Antibiotic Resistance and Responsible Use of Zertalin 500 mg
Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern in the medical community. The improper use of antibiotics like Zertalin can lead to the development of drug-resistant bacterial strains, rendering these medications ineffective against future infections.
Guidelines for Responsible Antibiotic Use
To prevent the development of antibiotic resistance and ensure the continued effectiveness of Zertalin 500 mg, patients should adhere to the following guidelines:
- Complete the entire prescribed course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication
- Never take antibiotics without a valid prescription
- Avoid sharing antibiotics with others
- Follow the prescribed dosing schedule strictly
- Report any side effects to a healthcare provider immediately
- Seek emergency medical attention for signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing
Why is it crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics. Stopping antibiotic treatment prematurely can allow some bacteria to survive, potentially leading to the development of resistant strains. This not only affects the individual patient but can also contribute to the broader issue of antibiotic resistance in communities.
Special Considerations for Zertalin 500 mg Use
While Zertalin 500 mg is a versatile and effective antibiotic, certain patient groups require special consideration when prescribing this medication. Understanding these specific circumstances can help healthcare providers make informed decisions and ensure patient safety.
Zertalin and Breastfeeding
Is Zertalin safe for use during breastfeeding. Generally, azithromycin is considered safe to use while breastfeeding. However, as with any medication, it’s essential for nursing mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting treatment. The provider can assess the potential benefits and risks based on the individual’s specific situation.
Patients with Heart Conditions
Individuals with existing heart conditions should exercise caution when using Zertalin. The medication has been associated with changes in heart rhythm, particularly in patients who:
- Are taking other medications that affect heart rhythm
- Have a history of prolonged QT interval
- Have low blood potassium or magnesium levels
- Have a slower than normal heart rate
In these cases, healthcare providers may need to consider alternative antibiotics or closely monitor the patient during treatment.
Pediatric Use
Zertalin is approved for use in children aged 6 months and older for certain infections, such as ear infections caused by Moraxella catarrhalis. However, dosage and duration of treatment may differ from adult recommendations. Pediatric patients should be closely monitored for any adverse reactions during treatment.
Elderly Patients
Older adults may be more susceptible to certain side effects of Zertalin, particularly heart rhythm changes. Healthcare providers may need to adjust dosages or consider alternative treatments for elderly patients, especially those with multiple health conditions or those taking other medications.
Zertalin 500 mg in Comparison to Other Antibiotics
Understanding how Zertalin 500 mg compares to other antibiotics in its class and beyond can help healthcare providers make informed decisions when selecting the most appropriate treatment for their patients.
Zertalin vs. Other Macrolides
Zertalin (azithromycin) belongs to the macrolide class of antibiotics, which also includes erythromycin and clarithromycin. How does Zertalin compare to these other macrolides.
- Spectrum of activity: Zertalin generally has a broader spectrum of activity compared to erythromycin, particularly against gram-negative bacteria.
- Dosing frequency: Zertalin typically requires less frequent dosing than erythromycin, often allowing for once-daily administration.
- Side effect profile: Zertalin tends to cause fewer gastrointestinal side effects than erythromycin.
- Drug interactions: Zertalin has fewer drug interactions compared to erythromycin and clarithromycin, making it a safer choice for patients on multiple medications.
Zertalin vs. Fluoroquinolones
Fluoroquinolones, such as ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin, are another class of broad-spectrum antibiotics. How does Zertalin compare to these drugs.
- Spectrum of activity: Both Zertalin and fluoroquinolones have broad-spectrum activity, but their coverage differs for specific pathogens.
- Side effect profile: Fluoroquinolones are associated with a higher risk of tendon rupture and peripheral neuropathy, which are not typically seen with Zertalin.
- Resistance concerns: Fluoroquinolone resistance is a growing concern in many bacterial species, while Zertalin resistance is less prevalent in some pathogens.
Zertalin vs. Beta-lactams
Beta-lactam antibiotics include penicillins and cephalosporins. How does Zertalin compare to these commonly used antibiotics.
- Mechanism of action: Zertalin inhibits protein synthesis, while beta-lactams interfere with cell wall synthesis in bacteria.
- Allergic reactions: Beta-lactam allergies are more common than macrolide allergies, making Zertalin a potential alternative for patients with penicillin allergies.
- Spectrum of activity: While both can be broad-spectrum, their specific coverage varies, with Zertalin being particularly effective against atypical pathogens.
When choosing between Zertalin and other antibiotics, healthcare providers must consider factors such as the suspected pathogen, local resistance patterns, patient allergies, and potential drug interactions. This individualized approach ensures the most effective and safe treatment for each patient.
Future Perspectives and Research on Zertalin 500 mg
As antibiotic resistance continues to be a global health concern, ongoing research into antibiotics like Zertalin 500 mg is crucial. What are some areas of current and future research related to azithromycin.
Novel Formulations and Delivery Methods
Researchers are exploring new ways to deliver azithromycin more effectively:
- Nanoparticle formulations for improved tissue penetration
- Extended-release formulations for less frequent dosing
- Topical preparations for localized infections
Combination Therapies
Studying azithromycin in combination with other antibiotics or adjuvant therapies may lead to:
- Enhanced efficacy against resistant pathogens
- Reduced likelihood of developing resistance
- Synergistic effects with other antimicrobial agents
Non-antibiotic Properties
Azithromycin has shown potential benefits beyond its antibacterial effects:
- Anti-inflammatory properties in chronic lung diseases
- Immunomodulatory effects in certain conditions
- Potential antiviral activity, though further research is needed
Personalized Medicine Approaches
Future research may focus on tailoring azithromycin treatment based on individual patient factors:
- Genetic markers influencing drug metabolism and efficacy
- Microbiome analysis to predict treatment outcomes
- Biomarkers for early detection of potential adverse effects
As research progresses, our understanding of Zertalin 500 mg and its optimal use will continue to evolve, potentially leading to more effective and personalized treatment strategies in the future.
Uses, dosage, side effects, and warnings
Azithromycin (Zithromax) is an antibiotic that can help treat certain bacterial infections. It is generally safe to use while breastfeeding, but people with existing heart conditions should avoid this drug.
Azithromycin is an antibiotic in the macrolides class. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved azithromycin in 1991.
Like all antibiotics, azithromycin can only fight certain bacteria. For this reason, it is important to talk to a doctor before taking the drug. It is not effective against viral infections or as a pain reliever.
This article provides an overview of azithromycin, including its uses, side effects, warnings, and drug interactions.
Share on PinterestA doctor may prescribe azithromycin for a sinus infection, COPD complications, or tonsillitis, for example.
Azithromycin can fight a wide range of bacteria, including many in the Streptococcus family. It can stop harmful bacteria from growing.
Healthcare providers tend to use this drug to treat mild-to-moderate infections of the lungs, sinuses, skin, and other body parts.
A doctor may prescribe azithromycin to treat the following bacterial infections:
- sinus infections related to Moraxella catarrhalis or Streptococcus pneumoniae
- community-acquired pneumonia related to Chlamydia pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or S. pneumoniae
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) complications related to M. catarrhalis or S. pneumoniae
- some skin infections related to Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, or Streptococcus agalactiae
- tonsillitis related to S. pyogenes
- urethritis and cervicitis related to Chlamydia trachomatis
- chancroid genital ulcers (in males) related to Haemophilus ducreyi
- certain ear infections in children aged 6 months and over, such as those related to M. catarrhalis
Azithromycin is a prescription medication. Therefore, people should not take it without a prescription.
The drug is available in the form of a tablet, an oral suspension solution, an eye drop, and an injection. The best type and dosage depends on the infection a person has.
People can take the drug with or without food. They should thoroughly shake the liquid form before use.
Some examples of common dosages include:
Infection | Dosage |
community-acquired pneumonia tonsillitis skin infections | an initial dose of 500 milligrams (mg) followed by 250 mg once daily until day 5 |
mild-to-moderate bacterial COPD exacerbations | 500 mg per day for 3 days OR an initial dose of 500 mg followed by 250 mg once daily until day 5 |
sinus infections | 500 mg per day for 3 days |
chancroid genital ulcers | a single dose of 1 gram (g) |
urethritis cervicitis | a single dose of 1 g |
gonococcal urethritis cervicitis | a single dose of 2 g |
Using antibiotics incorrectly can lead to the development of drug-resistant strains of bacteria, meaning that antibiotics no longer work against them. This is called antibiotic resistance.
When taking azithromycin or any other antibiotic, people should heed the following precautions:
- Take the entire course of antibiotics the doctor recommends, even when starting to feel better.
- Do not take antibiotics without a prescription. Not all antibiotics can treat all bacteria.
- Do not share antibiotics.
- Do not take antibiotics on a different dosing schedule than the one a doctor prescribes.
- Immediately call a doctor if side effects develop.
- Go to the emergency room for symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing.
Learn more about antibiotic resistance here.
Share on PinterestSide effects of azithromycin may include nausea and vomiting.
Like all drugs, azithromycin can have certain side effects. These are usually minor. In clinical trials, only 0.7% of people stopped taking Zithromax because of its side effects.
Most of the side effects that led people to stop taking the drug were gastrointestinal, such as:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- pain in the abdomen
Less common side effects, occurring in up to 1% of cases, include:
- heart palpitations or chest pain
- acid reflux
- dizziness
- headache
- fatigue
- vaginitis
- a rash
- dry skin
- sun sensitivity
Serious side effects are rare but can include:
- liver damage, especially in people with a history of liver health problems
- heart rhythm changes, which are more likely in people who take heart rhythm medications, older people, and those with low blood potassium
- serious allergic reactions
People who have myasthenia gravis, a condition that causes muscle weakness, may develop worsening symptoms or breathing problems.
People with a history of allergic reactions to macrolides or ketolides should not take azithromycin.
Doctors should not prescribe this drug to treat pneumonia if a person:
- has cystic fibrosis
- has a hospital-acquired infection
- has bacteremia
- requires a stay in the hospital
- is older or debilitated
- has a significant underlying health problem, such as immune system problems
People should not rely on azithromycin to treat syphilis.
A person should speak to a doctor about any existing heart, kidney, and liver conditions before taking azithromycin, including an irregular heartbeat and especially QT prolongation.
What does the research say?
A large 2012 cohort study found a small increase in the risk of cardiovascular death among people taking azithromycin. The risk was higher among those with other risk factors for heart disease, such as smoking, low physical activity levels, and a high body mass index (BMI).
The study reported that when compared with amoxicillin, there were 47 additional cardiovascular deaths per 1 million azithromycin prescriptions. Among people with the highest risk of heart disease, there were 245 more deaths per 1 million courses of azithromycin.
This suggests that other antibiotics, such as amoxicillin, may be a safer option for people with heart disease or certain types of heart arrythmias.
In 2018, the FDA issued a warning about the long term use of azithromycin in people with certain blood or lymph node cancers who have stem cell transplants. Emerging research has suggested that azithromycin may increase the risk of cancer relapse in these people.
Following a stem cell transplant, some people take azithromycin to reduce the risk of an inflammatory lung condition called bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome. The FDA have not approved azithromycin for this use, however.
Rarely, azithromycin can cause liver toxicity. People should stop taking the drug and call their doctor if they develop any symptoms of liver problems, including dark urine, itching, or yellow eyes.
In newborns younger than 42 days old, azithromycin may cause a dangerous condition called infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. Caregivers should contact a doctor if a baby becomes irritable or vomits when eating.
Azithromycin may interact with other medications a person is taking.
For example, using azithromycin while taking nelfinavir, which is a drug that helps treat HIV, can increase the risk of liver abnormalities and hearing problems.
Azithromycin can also increase the effects of blood thinners such as warfarin.
Other drugs that may interact with azithromycin include:
- digoxin, a heart medication
- colchicine, a gout medication
- phenytoin, a seizure medication
- antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum
A person should tell a doctor about all current medications, supplements, and remedies before taking azithromycin. Always speak to a doctor before stopping taking medications.
Share on PinterestA person may take azithromycin while breastfeeding but should discuss it with a healthcare professional first.
Azithromycin may be safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Studies of animals who received very large doses of azithromycin did not find an increased risk of miscarriage or birth defects.
However, there have been no high quality studies in pregnant humans, so the drug label currently states that “azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.”
Azithromycin can transfer into breast milk and may remain present for 48 hours following a person’s last dose. Although it is generally safe to use when breastfeeding, azithromycin may cause diarrhea, vomiting, or a rash in some babies.
A person should tell a doctor if they are pregnant, might be pregnant, or are breastfeeding before taking azithromycin. If a nursing infant develops side effects while the parent is taking azithromycin, call a doctor for advice.
The brand name version of azithromycin (Zithromax) is typically more expensive than the generic version.
However, the price may vary depending on the pharmacy, a person’s insurance coverage and deductibles, and their geographic location.
Azithromycin treats many of the same infections that drugs such as penicillin and amoxicillin can treat.
A doctor may prescribe azithromycin as an alternative to other antibiotics because it typically requires a shorter course. It is also a good option for people with a history of allergies to other medications, or when other antibiotics do not work.
Because the risk of heart health problems is higher with azithromycin than with some other antibiotics, people with heart disease or arrhythmias should ask their doctor about trying a different antibiotic.
Azithromycin is an antibiotic that can treat many types of bacterial infection. It can also prevent these infections from getting worse or spreading.
Like all antibiotics, it presents some risks, so it is important to only take it under the guidance of a medical professional.
Uses, dosage, side effects, and warnings
Azithromycin (Zithromax) is an antibiotic that can help treat certain bacterial infections. It is generally safe to use while breastfeeding, but people with existing heart conditions should avoid this drug.
Azithromycin is an antibiotic in the macrolides class. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved azithromycin in 1991.
Like all antibiotics, azithromycin can only fight certain bacteria. For this reason, it is important to talk to a doctor before taking the drug. It is not effective against viral infections or as a pain reliever.
This article provides an overview of azithromycin, including its uses, side effects, warnings, and drug interactions.
Share on PinterestA doctor may prescribe azithromycin for a sinus infection, COPD complications, or tonsillitis, for example.
Azithromycin can fight a wide range of bacteria, including many in the Streptococcus family. It can stop harmful bacteria from growing.
Healthcare providers tend to use this drug to treat mild-to-moderate infections of the lungs, sinuses, skin, and other body parts.
A doctor may prescribe azithromycin to treat the following bacterial infections:
- sinus infections related to Moraxella catarrhalis or Streptococcus pneumoniae
- community-acquired pneumonia related to Chlamydia pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or S. pneumoniae
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) complications related to M. catarrhalis or S. pneumoniae
- some skin infections related to Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, or Streptococcus agalactiae
- tonsillitis related to S. pyogenes
- urethritis and cervicitis related to Chlamydia trachomatis
- chancroid genital ulcers (in males) related to Haemophilus ducreyi
- certain ear infections in children aged 6 months and over, such as those related to M. catarrhalis
Azithromycin is a prescription medication. Therefore, people should not take it without a prescription.
The drug is available in the form of a tablet, an oral suspension solution, an eye drop, and an injection. The best type and dosage depends on the infection a person has.
People can take the drug with or without food. They should thoroughly shake the liquid form before use.
Some examples of common dosages include:
Infection | Dosage |
community-acquired pneumonia tonsillitis skin infections | an initial dose of 500 milligrams (mg) followed by 250 mg once daily until day 5 |
mild-to-moderate bacterial COPD exacerbations | 500 mg per day for 3 days OR an initial dose of 500 mg followed by 250 mg once daily until day 5 |
sinus infections | 500 mg per day for 3 days |
chancroid genital ulcers | a single dose of 1 gram (g) |
urethritis cervicitis | a single dose of 1 g |
gonococcal urethritis cervicitis | a single dose of 2 g |
Using antibiotics incorrectly can lead to the development of drug-resistant strains of bacteria, meaning that antibiotics no longer work against them. This is called antibiotic resistance.
When taking azithromycin or any other antibiotic, people should heed the following precautions:
- Take the entire course of antibiotics the doctor recommends, even when starting to feel better.
- Do not take antibiotics without a prescription. Not all antibiotics can treat all bacteria.
- Do not share antibiotics.
- Do not take antibiotics on a different dosing schedule than the one a doctor prescribes.
- Immediately call a doctor if side effects develop.
- Go to the emergency room for symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing.
Learn more about antibiotic resistance here.
Share on PinterestSide effects of azithromycin may include nausea and vomiting.
Like all drugs, azithromycin can have certain side effects. These are usually minor. In clinical trials, only 0.7% of people stopped taking Zithromax because of its side effects.
Most of the side effects that led people to stop taking the drug were gastrointestinal, such as:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- pain in the abdomen
Less common side effects, occurring in up to 1% of cases, include:
- heart palpitations or chest pain
- acid reflux
- dizziness
- headache
- fatigue
- vaginitis
- a rash
- dry skin
- sun sensitivity
Serious side effects are rare but can include:
- liver damage, especially in people with a history of liver health problems
- heart rhythm changes, which are more likely in people who take heart rhythm medications, older people, and those with low blood potassium
- serious allergic reactions
People who have myasthenia gravis, a condition that causes muscle weakness, may develop worsening symptoms or breathing problems.
People with a history of allergic reactions to macrolides or ketolides should not take azithromycin.
Doctors should not prescribe this drug to treat pneumonia if a person:
- has cystic fibrosis
- has a hospital-acquired infection
- has bacteremia
- requires a stay in the hospital
- is older or debilitated
- has a significant underlying health problem, such as immune system problems
People should not rely on azithromycin to treat syphilis.
A person should speak to a doctor about any existing heart, kidney, and liver conditions before taking azithromycin, including an irregular heartbeat and especially QT prolongation.
What does the research say?
A large 2012 cohort study found a small increase in the risk of cardiovascular death among people taking azithromycin. The risk was higher among those with other risk factors for heart disease, such as smoking, low physical activity levels, and a high body mass index (BMI).
The study reported that when compared with amoxicillin, there were 47 additional cardiovascular deaths per 1 million azithromycin prescriptions. Among people with the highest risk of heart disease, there were 245 more deaths per 1 million courses of azithromycin.
This suggests that other antibiotics, such as amoxicillin, may be a safer option for people with heart disease or certain types of heart arrythmias.
In 2018, the FDA issued a warning about the long term use of azithromycin in people with certain blood or lymph node cancers who have stem cell transplants. Emerging research has suggested that azithromycin may increase the risk of cancer relapse in these people.
Following a stem cell transplant, some people take azithromycin to reduce the risk of an inflammatory lung condition called bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome. The FDA have not approved azithromycin for this use, however.
Rarely, azithromycin can cause liver toxicity. People should stop taking the drug and call their doctor if they develop any symptoms of liver problems, including dark urine, itching, or yellow eyes.
In newborns younger than 42 days old, azithromycin may cause a dangerous condition called infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. Caregivers should contact a doctor if a baby becomes irritable or vomits when eating.
Azithromycin may interact with other medications a person is taking.
For example, using azithromycin while taking nelfinavir, which is a drug that helps treat HIV, can increase the risk of liver abnormalities and hearing problems.
Azithromycin can also increase the effects of blood thinners such as warfarin.
Other drugs that may interact with azithromycin include:
- digoxin, a heart medication
- colchicine, a gout medication
- phenytoin, a seizure medication
- antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum
A person should tell a doctor about all current medications, supplements, and remedies before taking azithromycin. Always speak to a doctor before stopping taking medications.
Share on PinterestA person may take azithromycin while breastfeeding but should discuss it with a healthcare professional first.
Azithromycin may be safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Studies of animals who received very large doses of azithromycin did not find an increased risk of miscarriage or birth defects.
However, there have been no high quality studies in pregnant humans, so the drug label currently states that “azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.”
Azithromycin can transfer into breast milk and may remain present for 48 hours following a person’s last dose. Although it is generally safe to use when breastfeeding, azithromycin may cause diarrhea, vomiting, or a rash in some babies.
A person should tell a doctor if they are pregnant, might be pregnant, or are breastfeeding before taking azithromycin. If a nursing infant develops side effects while the parent is taking azithromycin, call a doctor for advice.
The brand name version of azithromycin (Zithromax) is typically more expensive than the generic version.
However, the price may vary depending on the pharmacy, a person’s insurance coverage and deductibles, and their geographic location.