Azithromycin (Zithromax) Drug for Infection: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Azithromycin
(Zithromax, United States and Canada)

Use:

Azithromycin or Zithromax is an antibiotic used to treat susceptible infections. It is useful in respiratory tract infections and is one of the antibiotics included in multi drug therapy of ulcers.

How It Works:

Azithromycin or Zithromax is a macrolide antibiotic like erythromycin. It interferes with bacterial reproduction, thus killing the bacteria.
Because Azithromycin or Zithromax is an erythromycin, cross resistance occurs - if another erythromycin didn't work, Azithromycin or Zithromax won't either. However, compared to other erythromcyins, Azithromycin or Zithromax does have greater tissue penetration and lasts longer.

Side Effects:

As with all erythromycins, Azithromycin or Zithromax's side effects include stomach irritation. Taking Azithromycin or Zithromax with food may reduce this problem.

Cautions for People:

People who are sensitive to erythromycins will also be sensitive to Azithromycin or Zithromax.

Drug Interactions:

Azithromycin or Zithromax is able to reduce the liver's metabolism of the non sedating antihistamines terfenadine and astemizole. Increased levels of these antihistamines in the body can result in potentially fatal heart beat irregularities.

Further Reading:

Drugs 1992;44:750
Ann Pharmacother 1992;26:46

Added to Virtual Drugstore August 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.