What is Zithromax?

Zithromax belongs to a group of macrolide antibiotics. Zithromax is effective for treating bacterial infections, such as ear infections, infections of the respiratory airway, skin infections and diseases that are transmitted via a physical intercourse.

What is the most important information I should know about Zithromax?

If you are allergic to such medications as erythromycin (e.g. E.E.S., E-Mycin, Ery-Tab), troleandomycin (Tao), clarithromycin (Biaxin) or telithromycin (Ketek), you shouldn`t take Zithromax.

Besides, there are other drugs that may have interaction with Zithromax. If you are currently taking any medicine, you should consult with your doctor before starting treatment with Zithromax.

It is important to follow the complete course of treatment. Even if your symptoms get better, the infection can still remain uncured. Do not stop taking Zithromax without informing your health care provider.

Zithromax isn`t meant to treat such viral infections as flu and cold.

It is recommended you do not use antacids containing magnesium or aluminum (e.g. Maalox, Pepcid Complete, Rolaids, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia etc) two hours before or after you have used Zithromax, otherwise the drug`s effects will be reduced.

Consult with your health care provider if you suffer from one of the following conditions: kidney disease, liver disease, a recent history of Long QT syndrome and a heart rhythm disorder. You are likely to need dosage adjustment and special medical tests while undergoing treatment with Zithromax.

FDA pregnancy category B. Zithromax is unlikely to have a negative effect on a fetus. See your doctor if you are pregnant or going to become one. It is unknown if Zithromax appears in breast milk, so you shouldn`t start using this medication without informing your health care provider first.

How should I take Zithromax?

Zithromax should be used on an empty stomach, one hour before or two hours after you had meals.

Use the medication with a full glass of water.

If the drug comes in oral suspension, the packet should be opened and then you have to dissolve its contents in 2 ounces of liquid (water). The mixture should be stirred properly, and after that you can take it. It is important to drink the mixture as soon as it was prepared. Make sure you use the right dose using a special medical cup or a marked measuring spoon. In case you have no device for measuring doses, you should ask your health care provider for one.

Zithromax can be taken with or without food. If the drug upsets your stomach, you should consider taking it with food.

Zithromax should be stored at room temperature, in a place where children can`t reach it. Keep the medication away from heat and moisture. When the medicine expires (after 10 days) you should throw it out.

What happens if I miss a dose?

In case you missed a dose, take one asap. Never take an extra dose to catch up.

What happens if I overdose?

If you had too much of Zithromax, you should seek immediate medical help. The common symptoms of overdosage include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach upset.