| name | Azithromycin |
| classification | Macrolide antibiotic |
| pharmacokinetics | Azithromycin is well absorbed orally. It is highly concentrated in phagocytic cells and tissues, and has a long half-life, allowing for once-daily dosing. It is primarily metabolized in the liver and excreted in the bile. Significant tissue accumulation occurs in lung, tonsils, middle ear, and prostate. |
| suggested dosage | | adults | Typically 500 mg single dose followed by 250 mg daily for 4 days for uncomplicated infections. | | notes | Dosage adjustments may be required based on the specific infection and individual patient factors (renal or hepatic impairment). Consult with a healthcare professional for accurate dosage recommendations. |
|
| indications | Azithromycin is used to treat a range of bacterial infections, including respiratory infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis), sexually transmitted infections (e.g., chlamydia), skin infections, and others. Specific information should come from a healthcare professional for a patient's specific needs and diagnosis. |
| safety in pregnancy | Azithromycin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. However, limited data regarding the long-term effects on the fetus exist, and a healthcare professional should be consulted for personalized information and risks. Use only as prescribed and when considered necessary by the provider. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Azithromycin is excreted into breast milk. While generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, consult with your doctor before taking Azithromycin, especially during the first few weeks of breastfeeding. Monitoring for potential infant side effects may be necessary. |
| side effects | | 1 | Nausea | | 2 | Vomiting | | 3 | Diarrhea | | 4 | Abdominal pain | | 5 | Headache | | 6 | Dizziness | | 7 | Fatigue | | 8 | Loss of appetite | | 9 | Rash | | 10 | Pruritus | | 11 | Gastrointestinal upset |
|
| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to azithromycin or other macrolides. | | 2 | Severe hepatic impairment |
|
| interactions | | 1 | Antacids (may reduce absorption) | | 2 | Certain medications used to treat HIV/AIDS (risk of drug interactions) | | 3 | Certain medications used to treat heart conditions (potential interactions) | | 4 | Consult with a healthcare professional about all medications to avoid possible interactions. |
|
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor for signs of allergic reactions (rash, itching, difficulty breathing). | | 2 | Patients with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions should use with caution under the supervision of a healthcare professional. | | 3 | May cause prolongation of QT interval in susceptible individuals. This is a serious side effect and should be closely monitored by a healthcare professional. |
|
| additional information | Azithromycin is available in various dosage forms. It's essential to follow the prescribed dosage and duration of treatment for optimal effectiveness and to minimize the risk of adverse effects. Inform your healthcare professional about any other medications you are taking, medical conditions, or allergies. |
| patient specific details | | age | 25 | | weight | 70 | | gender | male | | note | This information is for educational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before starting any new treatment. |
|
