Azithromycin – Intravenous, Zithromax
This medication is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections. It is a macrolide antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Azithromycin is used to treat conditions such as pneumonia and pelvic infections caused by bacteria. It may also be prescribed for other types of bacterial infections.
This medication should be injected slowly into a vein as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. If you are administering it at home, make sure to follow all preparation and usage instructions from your healthcare professional. Before using, visually check the product for particles or discoloration. Do not use if either is present. Learn how to safely store and discard medical supplies.
Use this injectable medication until you can switch to an oral antibiotic or until your treatment is complete. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on your medical condition and response to therapy. It is important to take antibiotics at regular intervals to maintain a constant level of medicine in the body. Continue using the medication until you finish the prescribed amount, even if symptoms improve. Stopping it too early may allow bacteria to grow and lead to a recurrence of the infection. If your condition persists or worsens, consult your doctor.
Side effects of this medication may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or pain/redness at the injection site. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist. Serious side effects are rare, but seek immediate medical attention if you experience hearing changes, swelling legs/feet, eye problems, slurred speech, muscle weakness, severe abdominal pain, unusual weakness/tiredness, change in urine, dark urine, yellowing of the skin/eyes, or severe allergic reactions.
Prior to using azithromycin, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or to any other macrolide antibiotics. Discuss your medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver disease or myasthenia gravis. Azithromycin may cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm, so inform your doctor if you have heart problems or a family history of heart conditions. Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase the risk of heart rhythm problems, so discuss any relevant conditions with your doctor.
Before taking azithromycin, disclose all medications you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions. Certain medicines may affect the heart rhythm or decrease the effectiveness of hormonal birth control. If you suspect an overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately. Make sure to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as instructed. If you miss a dose, establish a new dosing schedule with your doctor and do not double the dose.
Consult the product instructions and your pharmacist for storage details. Keep all medicines out of reach of children and pets. Only discard this product as instructed. Report any negative side effects to the FDA through their MedWatch website or by calling 1-800-FDA-1088. This information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. Consult a healthcare professional before taking any drug, changing your diet, or starting or discontinuing any course of treatment.
