What is Zithromax?

Dispose any unused liquid medicine after 10 days. Zithromax is in a group of drugs called macrolide antibiotics and fights bacteria in the body. It's used to treat many different types of infections caused by bacteria.
This includes:

• middle ear infections.
• tonsillitis.
• throat infections.
• laryngitis.
• bronchitis.
• pneumonia.
• sinusitis.
• respiratory infections.
• skin infections.
• ear infections.
• sexually transmitted diseases.

Zithromax could be recommended for reasons other than mentioned in the medication guide. Keep zithromax in the same container it comes in. Keep it tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. Please do not store this medication in the bathroom. Keep the liquid form of the medication tightly closed at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Dispose any unused medication after 10 days and do not freeze liquid medication.

How does Zithromax work?

Zithromax is in a class of medications called macrolide antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Popular antibiotics do not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial growth through interfering with the bacteria's protein synthesis.

How to Take Zithromax?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not take it in larger amounts, or for longer than recommended. Take each tablet or capsule with a full glass of water.

For an oral suspension single dose packet:

• Open the packet and pour the medicine into 2 ounces of water.
• Stir the concoction and drink it at once.
• To make sure you get the total dose, put in a little more water in the same glass, twirl and drink.
• Stir the concoction and drink it at once.
• Capsules must be taken on an empty stomach. Take the capsule at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating meal.
• Zithromax tablets or powder oral suspension can be taken with or without food. Take the tablet or oral suspension with food if medication upsets your stomach.
• Do not take Zithromax at the same time as taking an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium. This includes Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others. This can make the medication less effectual when taken together.
• Shake the liquid well before you measure a dose. Measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.
• Take Zithromax regularly to get the most benefit.

Side effects of Zithromax

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction.
Hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat need medical assistance.

Serious side effects:

• diarrhea that is watery or bloody.
• chest pain.
• uneven heartbeats.
• nausea.
• stomach pain.
• low fever.
• loss of appetite.
• dark urine.
• clay-colored stools.
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
• angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, and neck that impedes speaking, swallowing, and breathing).
• anaphylaxis (a violent, even fatal allergic reaction).
• serious skin diseases.

If you develop these symptoms, stop medication and call your doctor immediately.

Less serious side effects:

• mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or stomach pain.
• dizziness, tired feeling, or headache.
• vaginal itching or discharge.
• mild itching or skin rash.

Side effects other than those listed above may occur. If anything disturbs you for an extended period, please call your doctor right away.

What should I discuss with my doctor before taking Zithromax?

Do not use Zithromax if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine. Do not use it with drugs like erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, E.E.S.), clarithromycin (Biaxin), or other macrolide antibiotics.
Before taking Zithromax, tell your doctor if you have:

• liver disease.
• kidney disease.
• history of Long QT syndrome.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
• tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

What should I avoid while taking Zithromax?

Antibiotic medicines may cause diarrhea and this can be a symptom of a new infection. If you have watery diarrhea or if it has blood in it, call your doctor and do not use any medicine to stop the diarrhea without consultation.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays, including sunlamps or tanning beds. Zithromax makes your skin extra sensitive to sunlight and you could get sun burnt. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing when you go out in the sun.