Pros
Effective against many types of bacteria
Usually only taken for 5 days
Only one dose needed per day
Azithromycin is considered one of the macrolide antibiotics which stops bacteria's growth. Like any antibiotic, you can only use this medication for bacterial infections. It is ineffective against viral infections, and it will not treat COVID, the cold, or the flu.
Some conditions that azithromycin is known to treat include infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia, ears, lungs, and other organs, respiratory infections, skin infections, sexually transmitted diseases, bacterial inflammation, and middle-ear infections in children. Azithromycin is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation under different brand names, including Zithromax, Zithromax Z-Pak, Zmax, AzaSite, and Zithromax TRI-PAK.
Azithromycin may be prescribed as oral tablets, liquids, injections, and intravenous drips. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage you are prescribed.
If you are prescribed azithromycin, be sure to complete the course of the antibiotic unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop.
The antibiotic may only fully treat your infection if you complete your prescription.
There are many different uses for azithromycin, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online medical professional may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your healthcare provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.
Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in adults can be treated with azithromycin.
While it used to be one of the first-line medications for sinus infections, azithromycin has now become an alternative medication for acute bacterial sinusitis in adults due to increasing rates of bacterial resistance to azithromycin. While it does still have some efficacy, there are other medications that have better rates of cure in the treatment of bacterial sinusitis.
Urethritis can be caused by an STI in adults. Azithromycin can be prescribed to treat chlamydia in certain populations.
This medication can be used for genital ulcer disease in men due to Haemophilus ducreyi (chancroid).
Azithromycin can be used to treat acute otitis media in pediatric patients as an alternative medication for those that are unable to use first-line treatment.
Community-acquired pneumonia in adults and pediatric patients can be treated using azithromycin.
Azithromycin can be used to treat pharyngitis or tonsillitis in adults and pediatric patients in patients as an alternative to first-line therapy in patients who cannot use first-line therapy.
Effective against many types of bacteria
Usually only taken for 5 days
Only one dose needed per day
Overuse can lead to bacterial resistance
May cause diarrhea and nausea
Ineffective against viral infections
The side effects associated with taking azithromycin are typically mild. Most azithromycin side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. Azithromycin has some common side effects. They may include:
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:
Severe allergic reaction
Liver injury
Diarrhea associated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria
Fast or pounding heartbeats
Sudden cardiac death
Severe intestinal conditions
You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects or develop other new or concerning symptoms. The side effects are rarely fatal, but it is always best to tell your doctor if any conditions arise. The use of azithromycin in young children six months and older is approved.
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your azithromycin prescription.
Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Then, call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Azithromycin can come in different forms and doses, so follow the specific instructions on your prescription. It is typically prescribed as a five-day pill regimen with a dose of 500 mg (2 tablets of 250 mg) on the first day and 250 mg for the remaining four days.
Azithromycin has 333 possible drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs.
Avoiding excessive sunlight exposure when taking azithromycin is essential as it can make you sunburn more easily.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if consuming alcohol while taking azithromycin is acceptable.
There are no documented interactions between azithromycin and alcohol. However, drinking more alcohol is not recommended when fighting an infection because it may hinder the body’s ability to fight the disease, lead to dehydration, interrupt sleep, and worsen common side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. It can also decrease effectiveness.
Avoid taking azithromycin if you have a specific muscle disease.
Do not take azithromycin if you take Nelfinavir. This drug can increase the amount of azithromycin in the blood. If you’re concerned about this interaction, tell your doctor to check for liver abnormalities and hearing impairment.
Do not take azithromycin if you take warfarin. Taking warfarin with azithromycin increases the blood thinning effect.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history and other drugs you are taking before taking azithromycin.
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another macrolide antibiotic or a bacterial antibiotic in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
The average price for azithromycin is 36 dollars which break down to $6 per pill. This cost will fluctuate based on the pharmacy and insurance.
Your doctor or pharmacist can send azithromycin to any local pharmacy. Some common locations include CVS, Walmart, Rite Aid, and Walgreens.
Take azithromycin at the same time each day. Morning is recommended, as some users have trouble sleeping after taking azithromycin. When taking azithromycin capsules, take them at least 1 hour before food or 2 hours after eating.
You should not take azithromycin if you take any drug which interacts with azithromycin, including nelfinavir or warfarin, as the risk of adverse side effects is more significant. In addition, specific drug interactions may occur with other drugs, so always tell your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any unusual tiredness or severe dizziness.
Observe for signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis as this can be a sign of an allergic reaction which can be severe in some patients.
Take the missed dose as soon as possible, but skip the missed dose if it is near your current dosage time.
Taking too much azithromycin could cause irregular heart rhythm or liver damage. If you consume too much azithromycin, you should call your doctor, contact your local Poison Control Center, or seek emergency medical attention immediately.
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Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
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Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Initial visits are $129.
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PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Mayo Clinic. Azithromycin (Oral Route): Proper Use. Accessed on October 10, 2023 at https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/azithromycin-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20072362?p=1.
Pfizer Labeling. ZITHROMAX® (azithromycin) Prescribing Information. Accessed on October 10, 2023 at https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=511&Section=PPI.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. ZITHROMAX® (azithromycin) Label Information. Accessed on October 10, 2023 at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/050670s036,050710s051,050711s050,050784s037lbl.pdf.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.