ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL)
Various bacterial infections.
BRAND NAME Zithromax, Zithromax Tri-Pak, Zithromax Z-Pak
DRUG CLASS
Antibiotic (macrolide)
DESCRIPTION
This drug blocks the production of a certain type of protein in bacterial cells, limiting their growth.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Diarrhea, nausea, rash, abdominal pain, cramping, vomiting.
CAUTIONS
Use caution if you have liver dysfunction (symptoms of liver problems may include jaundice, malaise, nausea, vomiting, abdominal colic, and fever). Discontinue use if liver dysfunction occurs.
Use caution if you have developed a certain type of abnormal heart rhythm called QT prolongation prior to therapy.
Safety and efficacy of this drug has not been established in children less than six months of age with acute bacterial infections of the ear, sinus or community-acquired pneumonia, or in
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Pimozide, tacrolimus, phenytoin, ergot alkaloids, alfentanil, bromocriptine, carbamazepine, cyclosporine, digoxin, disopyramide, triazolam, nelfinavir, antacids containing aluminum or magnesium. Consult your pharmacist or physician before starting any new therapy.
FOOD INTERACTIONS
The suspension formulation, but not the tablet form, has increased absorption (46%) with food.
HERBAL INTERACTIONS
Unknown
PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
FDA Pregnancy Risk Category B. Azithromycin is excreted in the breast milk and may accumulate. Use with caution during breast-feeding.
SPECIAL INFORMATION
Take suspension formulation of this drug at least one hour before or two hours after meals. Tablets may be taken without regard to meals. Do not take aluminum or magnesium containing antacids at the same time with this drug. Do not cut, chew, or crush the tablets. Shake the suspension well before each use.
