What is the most important information I should know about azithromycin?
Do not use azithromycin if you have ever had an
allergic reaction to this medicine or
similar drugs such as
erythromycin (
E-Mycin,
Ery-Tab, E.E.S.),
clarithromycin (
Biaxin),
telithromycin (
Ketek), or
troleandomycin (Tao).
There are many other medicines that can interact with azithromycin. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use.
This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not
start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the
medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.
Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your
symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Azithromycin will not treat a
viral infection such as the
common cold or flu.
Take azithromycin on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
Do not take antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium within 2 hours before or after
you take azithromycin. This includes Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid
Complete, and others. These antacids can make azithromycin less effective when taken at the
same time.
What is azithromycin?
Azithromycin is in a group of drugs called macrolide antibiotics. Azithromycin fights
bacteria in the body.
Azithromycin is used to treat many different types of infections caused by bacteria, such
as respiratory infections, skin infections, ear infections, and sexually transmitted diseases.
Azithromycin may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking azithromycin?
Do not use azithromycin if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine or
similar drugs such as erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, E.E.S.), clarithromycin (Biaxin),
telithromycin (Ketek), or troleandomycin (Tao).
Before taking azithromycin, tell your doctor if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment
or special tests to safely take this medication.
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an
unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are
pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether azithromycin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a
nursing baby. Do not take this medication without telling your doctor if you are
breast-feeding a
baby.
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