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Azithromycin

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Azithromycin is used for the treatment of infections including those of the chest, skin and ear. It is also used for some types of stomach ulcer.
Even if your condition improves it is important to complete the prescribed course or your infection could come back.
The most common side effects are feeling sick, being sick, tummy pain, diarrhoea and indigestion or heartburn.

About azithromycin

Type of medicine	Antibiotic
Used for	Bacterial infections, such as infections of the chest, mouth, ear and some sexually transmitted infections.
Also called	Zithromax
Available as	Capsule and oral solution

Azithromycin is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections; it works by killing bacteria that cause the infection.

Before taking azithromycin

Before taking azithromycin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
If you suffer from heart problems.
If you suffer from porphyria (a blood disorder).

How to take azithromycin

Do not take indigestion remedies at the same time as this medicine. Take them at least one hour before or one hour after a dose of azithromycin.
Swallow azithromycin capsules whole (not crushed or chewed), with plenty of water.
Take azithromycin at least one hour before food or at least two hours after food.
Try to take this medicine at regular intervals, as directed by your doctor, to keep a steady level of azithromycin in your body.
Try not to miss any doses. If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Never take two doses at the same time to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

Even if your condition has improved it is important to complete the prescribed course of azithromycin. If you stop taking this medicine too soon your infection is likely to return and could be more difficult to treat.
Azithromycin can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
Some people develop thrush after taking a course of antibiotics. If you think you have thrush speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Important: Oral contraceptives may be less effective while you are taking azithromycin and unplanned pregnancies have occurred. In addition to taking the contraceptive pill, use a barrier method of contraception (e.g. condoms) while you are taking azithromycin and for at least seven days after your course of azithromycin has finished. If these seven days run into a 'pill-free' week, start taking the next packet of contraceptives without leaving a break. If you are taking the type of contraceptive pill that is taken every day or if you need any further advice, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Can azithromycin cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine	What can I do if I experience this
Nausea (feeling sick), vomiting (being sick), tummy pain	Drink plenty of liquid. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast. If vomiting continues to be a problem speak to your doctor.
Diarrhoea	Drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids. If diarrhoea continues to be a problem speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
Indigestion and heartburn	Speak with your pharmacist who may be able to recommend a suitable remedy. If this continues to be a problem or prevents you from taking the medicine speak with your doctor.

Important if you notice any yellow colouring in the whites of your eyes or your skin speak with your doctor immediately.
Important if you notice that you bruise very easily then speak with your doctor immediately.
Azithromycin can also cause other side effects but they are much less common, if you experience any other problems that you think may be caused by your medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store azithromycin

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk

DocID:
3401

DocRef:
dils2446

Last Updated:
7 Feb 2007

Date of Next Review:
6 Feb 2009

Version:
23

The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest. Find out more about updating.

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