- Critical Care Associates
Shea, M.D., F.C.C.P.
USES: Azithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract infections, sexually transmitted diseases and skin infections.
HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: This medication is best taken on an empty stomach one hour before or 2 hours after meals. Avoid taking antacids with this since the absorption of this drug can be affected. Wait at least 2 hours after taking this medication before taking an antacid.
Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at the same time of the day on each day of treatment. Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow and may result in a relapse of the infection.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause stomach upset, loose stools, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps or vaginal irritation. If these symptoms persist or become severe, inform your doctor.
Notify your doctor if you develop symptoms of jaundice such as dark urine, clay-colored stools or yellowing of eyes or skin.
In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.
If you develop diarrhea while taking this medication, notify your doctor. Do not take any nonprescription medications to treat diarrhea without first consulting your doctor.
Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a secondary infection (e.g., oral, bladder or vaginal yeast infection)
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have other illnesses or any allergies, especially allergies to drugs.
If you have had liver disease, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) , history of colitis or stomach problems or kidney disease, tell your doctor before taking this drug.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before taking this medication. It is not known if azithromycin appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Do not take aluminum- and magnesium-containing antacids simultaneously with azithromycin.
Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter and prescription medications you are taking including theophylline, carbamazepine, warfarin, astemizole, terfenadine, digoxin, triazolam, ergotamine, cyclosporine, birth control pills and dihydroergotamine.
This drug may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor.