What is the most important information I should know about dirithromycin?
Take all of the dirithromycin that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to
feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
Take dirithromycin with food or within 1 hour of eating to increase the absorption of
the drug by your body.
Do not break, crush, or chew the tablets. Swallow them whole.
What is dirithromycin?
Dirithromycin is in a class of drugs called macrolide antibiotics. Dirithromycin fights
bacteria in your body.
Dirithromycin is used to treat many different types of bacterial infections, such as
bronchitis, pneumonia, tonsillitis, and skin infections.
Dirithromycin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication
guide.
Who should not take dirithromycin?
Before taking dirithromycin, tell your doctor if you have liver disease. You may not be
able to take dirithromycin, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during therapy.
Dirithromycin is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known
whether dirithromycin will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first
talking to your doctor if you are
pregnant.
It is not known whether dirithromycin passes into breast milk. Do not take this
medication without first talking to your doctor if you are
breast-feeding a baby.
Dirithromycin has not been approved for use in children younger than 12 years of
age.
How should I take dirithromycin?
Take dirithromycin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these
instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of
water.
Take dirithromycin with food or milk to increase the absorption of the drug into your
body.
Do not break, crush, or chew the tablets. Swallow them whole.
Take all of the dirithromycin that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to
feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your
next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not
take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms of a dirithromycin overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal
discomfort.
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