|
Usage: Zithromax is in a class of drugs called macrolide antibiotics. Zithromax fights bacteria in your body. Zithromax is used to treat many different types of bacterial infections, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, tonsillitis, skin infections, ear infections, and sexually transmitted diseases.
Directions: Take Zithromax 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 tablet or capsule with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. Take the Zithromax capsules and suspension on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. The Zithromax tablets can be taken with or without food. Do not take Zithromax close to a dose of an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others. These antacids may decrease the effects of Zithromax. To ensure that you get the correct dosage, measure the liquid form of Zithromax with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one. Shake the suspension well before measuring a dose. To take the Zithromax (Zithromax)1 gram oral suspension single dose packet: The entire contents of the packet should be mixed thoroughly with two ounces (approximately 60 mL) of water. Drink the entire contents immediately. Add an additional two ounces of water, mix and drink to assure complete consumption of dosage. The single dose packet should not be used to administer doses other than 1 gram of Zithromax. This packet is not for use by children. Take all of the Zithromax 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. Throw away any unused suspension after 10 days.
Side Effects: If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Zithromax and seek emergency medical attention: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or liver damage (yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe fatigue). Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Zithromax and talk to your doctor if you experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain; unusual dizziness, fatigue, or headache; vaginal yeast infection; a rash; or increased sensitivity to sunlight. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
Precautions: Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Zithromax may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable.
Drug Interactions: Do not take Zithromax close to a dose of an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others. These antacids may decrease the effects of Zithromax. Before taking Zithromax, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following drugs: carbamazepine (Tegretol); phenytoin (Dilantin); theophylline (Theo-Dur, Theolair, Theochron, others); warfarin (Coumadin); digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps); pimozide (Orap); triazolam (Halcion); cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune); or another antibiotic. You may not be able to take Zithromax, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Zithromax. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.
If You Take Too Much: Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of an Zithromax overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the 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.
Storage: Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Throw away any unused suspension after 10 days.
|
