ZITHROMAX (AZITHROMYCIN)

Zithromax Description

Zithromax is an antibiotic drug prescribed to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, including bronchitis, pneumonia, middle ear infections, and some sexually transmitted diseases. Zithromax or generic Azithromycin does not break down in the body as fast as other antibiotics. This is because instead of floating freely in your blood, your white blood cells pick up the drug and carry it to the affected site where it becomes concentrated in the surrounding tissues. Zithromax remains in your body for a longer period so treatment time is shorter. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand drug.

Zithromax and Your Immune System Battle the Bacteria

When taken as directed, Zithromax prevents bacteria from multiplying and making the vital proteins that are necessary for them to grow. Zithromax is referred to as a bacteriostatic medication rather than bactericidal, which means that the drug itself does not kill the bacteria but stops them from increasing their numbers while your immune system helps to kill off any that are remaining.

Depending on the age of the person prescribed Zithromax, there are also dispersible tablets that can be dissolved in a small amount of liquid to make swallowing easier especially for very young children and some seniors. For in-hospital treatment, you may be given injections of Zithromax.

Conditions Treated by Zithromax

Group A streptococcus is the type of bacteria that can cause strep throat, an infection that is more common in children between five and fifteen years of age. This is likely due to a lack of covering up sneezes and not stifling a cough so others may become infected with this type of bacteria. Younger children may also touch infected toys or other surfaces after being handled by an infected playmate. Strep throat can make swallowing very painful so the dispersible tabs may be a better choice.

Otitis media is a middle ear infection that is more prevalent in younger children. By the age of three, many children have already had at least one episode of middle ear infection that is often caused by a respiratory infection that has spread. This infection involves inflammation of the passage that connects the back of their nose to their middle ear that becomes swollen and the fluid from cells in the middle ear becomes trapped. This can become a potential breeding ground for bacteria.

Before You Take Zithromax

Tell your doctor before taking Zithromax if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding so it can be determined if your unborn or nursing baby may be affected. Discuss other medical conditions and allergies you have with your doctor and list any OTC or Rx medication you take, including herbal remedies and vitamin supplements, as adding Zithromax may cause unintended side effects or alter its efficacy.

Zithromax Precautions and Proper Use

If you regularly take antacids, take them at least two hours before or wait two hours after your dose of Zithromax to ensure you receive the full benefit of this medicine. Zithromax can make you more sensitive to any exposure to sunlight and tanning beds so you should wear appropriate clothing to avoid direct sun and apply a topical sun block with an SPF 30 or higher.

Possible Side Effects of Zithromax

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness