Azithromycin Information

This drug is a macrolide antibiotic that is used to fight bacteria in the body. The medication treats many bacterial-related infections such as respiratory, ear and skin infections, as well as sexually transmitted diseases.

You should avoid azithromycin if you have ever experienced an allergic reaction to the drug, to macrolide antibiotics or similar drugs such as clarithromycin (Biaxin) or erythromycin (E-Mycin, E.E.S., Ery-Tab). You should also consult with your doctor before taking azithromycin if you suffer from kidney or liver disease, a heart rhythm disorder or a history or long QT syndrome. You may not be able to take the drug or you may require special tests or a dosage adjustment. Although this medication has not been proven to harm unborn babies, you should consult with your doctor if you are breast-feeding, pregnant or plan to become so during treatment.

Make sure to take azithromycin exactly as prescribed. Never take the medication for longer periods or in larger doses because the dose may not be the same for every type of infection. You must take azithromycin capsules on an empty stomach with a full 8-ounce glass of water 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating. Powder oral suspension or azithromycin tablets can be taken with or without food. If you suffer an upset stomach, be sure to take the medication with food.

Never take azithromycin in conjunction with antacids containing magnesium or aluminum such as milk of magnesia, Mylanta, Rolaids, Maalox or Pepcid Complete. You should also take the medication regularly for optimal results, and store it at room temperature away from heat and moisture. Be sure to discard any liquid medicine you have not used after 10 days.

If you miss a dose, take it once you remember. If your next dose is almost due, skip your missed dose and take it at your next regularly scheduled time period. Never take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose. If you believe you may have taken too much azithromycin, seek medical attention immediately. Possible symptoms of an azithromycin overdose include stomach discomfort, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.

If you experience any of the following serious symptoms, be sure to seek emergency attention:

• Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of your tongue, lips, throat or face, difficulty breathing or hives
• Chest pain or an uneven heartbeat
• Dark urine or clay-colored stools
• Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin)
• Diarrhea that is bloody or watery
• Stomach pain
• Loss of appetite
• Low fever
• Nausea

You can continue using azithromycin if you experience side effects such as constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, mild nausea, mild itching or a skin rash, dizziness, vaginal discharge or itching or headaches. However, you should consult with your doctor. If you experience any unusual or bothersome side effects not listed, be sure to consult with your doctor.

Azithromycin can also interact with any of the following drugs:

• Digoxin
• Magnesium salts
• Triazolam
• Dihydroergotamine
• Astemizole
• Ergotamine
• Terfenadine
• Warfarin
• Antacids

What is the shelf life of the pills?

The expiry date is listed on each blister. The date will vary depending on the particular batch. The shelf life is 2 years from the manufacturing date and varies depending on when the pills were manufactured.