Zithromax (azithromycin) is a macrolide antibiotic medication prescribed for the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections. Its advanced azalide structure allows for high tissue concentration and a convenient dosing regimen, often requiring a shorter course of therapy compared to other antibiotics. Clinically proven and trusted by healthcare professionals worldwide, Zithromax targets susceptible pathogens effectively, helping patients return to health with minimal disruption to daily life.

Features

• Active ingredient: Azithromycin (as dihydrate)
• Available in oral tablet (250 mg, 500 mg), oral suspension (100 mg/5 mL, 200 mg/5 mL), and intravenous formulations
• Extended half-life permitting once-daily dosing
• Broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and atypical bacteria
• FDA-approved for multiple indications including respiratory, skin, and sexually transmitted infections

Benefits

• Effective against common community-acquired pathogens including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis
• Convenient short-course therapy (often 3–5 days) due to prolonged antibiotic activity
• High tissue penetration achieving concentrations exceeding plasma levels
• Generally well-tolerated profile with lower frequency of gastrointestinal upset compared to other macrolides
• Suitable for pediatric patients with weight-appropriate oral suspension formulations

Common use

Zithromax is indicated for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of microorganisms in:

• Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Community-acquired pneumonia
• Pharyngitis/tonsillitis
• Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections
• Urethritis and cervicitis
• Genital ulcer disease (chancroid)
• Acute bacterial sinusitis
• Otitis media in children

Dosage and direction

Adults:
Most infections: 500 mg as a single dose on day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on days 2 through 5.
Sexually transmitted diseases: Single 1 gram dose.
Children:
Dosing based on body weight. Typical regimen: 10 mg/kg on day 1 (maximum 500 mg), then 5 mg/kg on days 2–5 (maximum 250 mg).
Take at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals for optimal absorption. Complete the entire prescribed course even if symptoms improve.

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment
• May prolong cardiac QT interval; avoid in patients with known QT prolongation
• Not recommended for patients with pneumonia who are judged to be inappropriate for oral therapy
• Superinfections with nonsusceptible organisms may occur
• Prescribers should consider the possibility of antibacterial resistance

Contraindications

• Known hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin, or any macrolide antibiotic
• History of cholestatic jaundice/hepatic dysfunction associated with prior azithromycin use
• Concurrent use with ergot derivatives or pimozide
• Patients with known QT prolongation or ventricular arrhythmia

Possible side effect

Common (≥1%):

• Diarrhea/loose stools
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Headache

Less common:

• Elevated liver enzymes
• Vaginitis
• Dizziness
• Rash
• QT prolongation (rare)

Serious (seek immediate medical attention):

• Severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
• Hepatotoxicity
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
• Hearing impairment
• Serious cardiac arrhythmias

Drug interaction

• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: reduce absorption (separate administration by 2 hours)
• Warfarin: may potentiate anticoagulant effect
• Nelfinavir: increases azithromycin levels
• Digoxin: may increase digoxin serum concentration
• Cyclosporine: may increase cyclosporine levels
• QT-prolonging agents (antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics, fluoroquinolones): additive QT effects

Missed dose

Take the missed dose as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed dose.

Overdose

Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and temporary hearing loss. Management is supportive; gastric lavage may be considered if presented soon after ingestion. There is no specific antidote. Hemodialysis is not effective for azithromycin removal.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15–30°C/59–86°F). Keep container tightly closed. Oral suspension remains stable for 10 days after reconstitution when stored at 5–30°C (41–86°F). Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Zithromax is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and administration. Report any adverse effects to your physician promptly.

Reviews

“Zithromax has been a game-changer in our practice for treating respiratory infections. The short course and once-daily dosing significantly improve patient compliance.” — Dr. E. Lawson, Pulmonologist

“My pediatric patients tolerate the suspension well, and parents appreciate the shorter treatment duration compared to other antibiotics.” — Dr. M. Chen, Pediatric Infectious Disease

“Effective for uncomplicated skin infections with minimal gastrointestinal side effects in my experience. The Z-Pak convenience is appreciated by working patients.” — Dr. R. Johnson, Family Medicine