Zithromax

What is it?

A macrolide antibacterial preparation available as white capsules containing 250mg of azithromycin dihydrate marked ZTM250 and Pfizer. Also, ZITHROMAX TABLETS, film- coated, white tablets containing 500mg of azithromycin marked ZTM 500. Also, ZITHROMAX SUSPENSION, available as a powder for reconstitution with water, containing 200mg of azithromycin as dihydrate per 5ml.

Medical Uses

Infections of skin, soft tissue, and respiratory tract, middle ear infections and certain uncomplicated genital infections caused by Chlamydia trachomatis.

Dosage

Adults, capsules and tablets, 500mg once each day for 3 days taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after food; genital infections, 1g as single dose. Children, use suspension, aged 12 to 14 years, 10ml; aged 8 to 11 years, 7.5ml; aged 3 to 7 years, 5ml; aged under 3 years, weighing up to 15kg, 10mg per kg of body weight. All as single doses taken with food for 3 days.

Special Care

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, impaired liver or kidney function.

Avoid Use

Liver disease.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Antacids, cyclosporin, terfenadine, warfarin, digoxin, ergot derivatives.

Known Side Effects

Allergic reaction, vertigo, acute kidney failure, weakness, tingling/numbness/pins and needles sensation, rash, anaphylaxis, fluid retention, gastrointestinal upset, angioneurotic oedema (widespread swelling due to fluid collection), interstitial nephritis (kidney inflammation), heart arrhythmias, anorexia, sensitivity to light, joint pain, cholestatic jaundice, liver disorders, hepatitis, palpitations, fits. In rare cases, taste disturbance, death of skin cells, neutropenia (fall in blood platelets causing bleeding), Stevens- Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme (skin disorder)liver failure, impairment of hearing.