Drugs & Vitamins

Active Ingredients: Azithromycin Immediate-Release
Other Names: Zithromax Oral Suspension
Drug Class: Macrolides
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:
Pronunciation:

What is/are Zithromax Oral Suspension? (Back to top)
AZITHROMYCIN is a macrolide antibiotic. It stops the growth of some bacteria. This medicine is used to treat many kinds of infections, like respiratory and ear infections. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• kidney disease
• liver disease
• irregular heartbeat or heart disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to azithromycin, erythromycin, other macrolide antibiotics, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label.

For the suspension already mixed by the pharmacist: Shake well before using. This medicine can be taken with food or on an empty stomach. If the medicine upsets your stomach, take it with food. Use a specially marked spoon, or container to measure the dose. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think that you are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

For the 1 gram single dose packet: This medicine can be taken with food or on an empty stomach. Empty the contents of a single dose packet into two ounces of water (about one quarter of a full glass). Mix and drink all the mixture at once. Add another two ounces of water to the glass, mix well and drink all of it, to make sure you take the full dose.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)
Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

• lincomycin

• amiodarone
• antacids
• cyclosporine
• digoxin
• dihydroergotamine or ergotamine
• magnesium
• nelfinavir
• phenytoin
• warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• confusion, nightmares or hallucinations
• dark urine
• difficulty breathing
• hearing loss
• irregular heartbeat or chest pain
• pain or difficulty passing urine
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• white patches or sores in the mouth
• yellowing of the eyes or skin

• diarrhea
• dizziness, drowsiness
• headache
• stomach upset or vomiting
• tooth discoloration
• vaginal irritation

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve.

Do not treat diarrhea with over the counter products. Contact your doctor if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or if it is severe and watery.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store between 5 and 30 degrees C (41 and 86 degrees F) for up to 10 days. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Last Updated:April 04, 2006

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