Azithromycin is one of the
world's best selling antibiotics. It is an azalide antibiotic, a
subclass of the macrolides. It retains the spectrum of activity of
erythromycin against Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens and
has increased activity against many Gram - negative and atypical
microorganisms.
The antibiotic is commonly used for treating certain bacterial
infections, most often bacteria causing middle ear infections,
tonsillitis, throat infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis and
laryngitis,
Brand Name: Zithromax, Zmax®; Sumamed®; Aztrin®
Chemical Description: 9-deoxy-9a-aza-9a-methyl-9a-
homoerythromycin A
Working
The drug acts by interfering with microbial protein synthesis by
binding to the 50 S ribosomal sub unit. The antibiotic has been
approved for treating chlamydia and bacterial infections of the skin
and respiratory tract.
The drug is commonly administered in tablet or oral suspension
form. It is also available for intravenous injection. The Tablets
are available in 250mg and 500mg doses; Oral suspension comes in
strength of 100mg/teaspoon and 200mg/teaspoon
Dosage
Upper and lower respiratory tract and skin and soft tissue
infections: 500mg once daily for 3 days or 500 mg once on day 1,
followed by 250 mg once daily for the next 4 days. Urogenital
infection (Chlamydial) : 1g as a single dose
The drug should be taken 1 hour before or at least 2 hours after a
meal. It used with caution by pregnant and lactating women.
Contra- Indications: Hypersensitivity to azithromycin or
other macrolides
Side Effects
The drug has certain side effects, that can affect individuals in
different ways. The following are some of the side effects, that are
often associated with the drug:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Dyspepsia
- Flatulence Dizziness
- Vertigo
- Headache
Disclaimer: The above information is for general
understanding of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical
practitioner before taking the aforesaid medicine.
