Zithromax

Uses:
Azithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections.

How to Take:
Zithromax is best taken on an empty stomach one hour before or 2 hours after meals. Avoid taking antacids with this since the absorption of this drug can be affected. Wait at least 2 hours after taking this medication before taking an antacid. Shake the suspension well before using. Depending on child's weight, the usual dose to be taken on the first day for the treatment of an ear infection is 1, 1.5 or 2 teaspoonsful followed by half of that amount on days 2 through 5. Depending on the child's weight the usual dose for treating a throat infection can range from 0.5 to 2.5 teaspoonsful each day for 5 days. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at the same time of the day on each day of treatment. Continue to take Zithromax until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow and may result in a relapse of the infection.

Side Effects:
Zithromax may cause stomach upset, loose stools, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps or vaginal irritation. If these symptoms persist or become severe, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop symptoms of jaundice such as: dark urine, clay-colored stools, yellowing of eyes or skin. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you develop diarrhea while taking Zithromax, notify your doctor. Do not take any nonprescription medications to treat diarrhea without first consulting your doctor. Use of Zithromax for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a secondary infection (e.g., oral, bladder or vaginal yeast infection). If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver disease (including jaundice/yellowing eyes or skin); stomach problems or colitis; kidney disease, other illnesses, any allergies (especially drug allergies). Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before taking this medication. It is not known if azithromycin appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions:
Do not take aluminum- and magnesium-containing antacids simultaneously with azithromycin. Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter and prescription medications you are taking including: theophylline, carbamazepine, warfarin, astemizole, terfenadine, digoxin, triazolam, ergotamine, cyclosporine, dihydroergotamine, felodipine (a calcium channel blocker), certain drugs for high cholesterol (e.g., "statins" like lovastatin, pravastatin). Zithromax may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Notes:
Zithromax has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or give it to someone else. A different medication may be necessary.

Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the doses.

Storage:
May store in refrigerator or at room temperature (41 to 86 degrees F or 5 to 30 degrees C). Discard after 10 days.

NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.