Azithromycin for infection

About azithromycin

What is azithromycin used for?

Azithromycin is a type of antibiotic used to treat acute bacterial infections, such as respiratory infections, ear infections, skin infections and some genital infections.

Azithromycin is also available as an eye drop for the treatment of eye infections.

It works by stopping the bacteria causing the infection from multiplying.

Azithromycin can be taken by adults and children.

Side effects of azithromycin

Common side effects of azithromycin are:

• Diarrhoea.

• Feeling sick.

• Being sick.

• Stomach ache.

• Farting (wind).

• Headache.

• Lack of appetite.

• Feeling of deafness.

A full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine.

The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

How to manage azithromycin side effects

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

Who should not take azithromycin?

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions. Before starting azithromycin it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you have any problems with the way your liver works or the way your kidneys work.

• If you know you have an unusual heart rhythm.

• If you have a muscle disorder called myasthenia gravis.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take azithromycin

• Read the leaflet in the pack before starting azithromycin. It explains how to take it and lists possible side effects.

• Take exactly as your doctor tells you to and always check the label for the correct dose.

  • It is usually taken once a day as a single dose.

  • You may be given a course for 3-5 days depending on the reason for taking it.

• If prescribed for a child, the dose will depend on the child's weight.

• Use the measuring syringe provided and check the label carefully. A drink of juice afterward can help with the bitter taste.

• If you're taking capsules, take you dose on an empty stomach. Either one hour before food or two hours after food.

• If you are taking tablets or liquid medicine, these can be taken either before or after food.

• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember but do not take two doses at the same time.

• Finish the full course even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to stop.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Avoid taking antacids within 2 hours before or after azithromycin, as they can slow down how your body absorbs the medicine.

• Some people develop thrush (oral or vaginal) after taking a course of antibiotics. If this happens to you, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

• This antibiotic may stop the oral typhoid vaccine from working. If you are having any vaccinations, make sure the person treating you knows that you are taking this medicine.

• If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking azithromycin.

• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are suitable to take with this antibiotic.

• If you still feel unwell after completing your course of the antibiotic, make another appointment to see your doctor.

How to store azithromycin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

• If you have been given liquid medicine, it will have been made up by the pharmacy and it lasts for a limited number of days only.

• Check the expiry date on the bottle and do not use it after this date.

Important information about all medicines

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for azithromycin to work?

Azithromycin usually starts to improve symptoms within 1-3 days. Full recovery depends on the infection but often takes 5-7 days, even if the antibiotic course has finished.

Why is azithromycin only given for three days?

Azithromycin has a long half-life, so it stays in the body and continues to fight bacteria after the last dose. This allows a short, effective 3-day course for many infections.

Is it safe to take azithromycin during pregnancy?

Azithromycin is generally considered safe in pregnancy when prescribed by a doctor. Your healthcare provider will weigh the benefits and risks before recommending it.

Can you drink alcohol with azithromycin?

Drinking alcohol while taking azithromycin is not usually dangerous, but it can increase the risk of side effects like stomach upset or dizziness. Limiting alcohol can help you recover more comfortably.

Is azithromycin a penicillin?

No, azithromycin is not a penicillin. It belongs to the macrolide class of antibiotics and works differently from penicillin.