Azithromycin: Uses, Dosage and Side effects

Ever had to go through a bacterial infection? Bacterial infection is one of the most common infections in the world. While bacteria are usually harmless, in some cases they can cause serious illness and even death. Therefore, it is imperative to have an antibiotic hands-on for instances like this. This is where Azithromycin comes in. 

Azithromycin is one of the most widely prescribed antibiotics in the world that is both effective and affordable. It is often the first choice of antibiotic for a wide range of bacterial infections, including bronchitis, pneumonia, ear infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. Azithromycin is easy to take, works in almost all cases of bacterial infections and is generally well-tolerated by patients. 

Also check out- Cinnarizine-an antihistamine – My Biology Dictionary

Let us get to know more about Azithromycin:-

Uses of Azithromycin

Azithromycin is best known for its use as an antibiotic to treat Respiratory Tract Infections (RTI) such as community-acquired pneumonia and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia. 

It is often used in combination with other antibiotics to increase their effectiveness. Being a macrolide antibiotic, it is frequently used in combination with other macrolides such as erythromycin, roxithromycin, azithromycin and clarithromycin. They are useful in treating respiratory, soft tissue, and sexually transmitted. 

Azithromycin being an antibiotic, will not work for any kind of viral infection such as cold or flu. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.

Dosage of Azithromycin 

This drug is an oral antibiotic. It is available as a tablet and a capsule and is taken by mouth as a single dose or as a series of doses over several days. It is also available as a liquid suspension which makes it a good fit for children and the elderly who are unable to take capsules and tablets. 

Azithromycin tablets are available in two strengths – 250mg or 500mg, the capsules are 250mg and the liquid comes as 200mg in 5ml. 

The recommended dosage is 500mg a day for 3 to 10 days depending on the infection being treated. Although, it is in your best interest to get a prescription from a physician and stick to it.

The dose may be lower for children or if you have prior health problems. Azithromycin can also be prescribed for long term in order to prevent chest infections if you are highly susceptible to them. 

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Side Effects of Azithromycin 

Azithromycin, inherently being a medicine can cause side effects, although they might not be as severe for the majority of consumers.

One of the most common side effects of taking azithromycin is diarrhoea.  This side effect typically begins within the first week of taking azithromycin and persists for two to three weeks. If you experience any severe side effects, consult and seek medical attention immediately.

Other side effects of the drug include:-

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Feeling dizzy or tired
• Stomach pain

To sum it all up

This drug is almost always effective at treating bacterial infections, especially when it comes to respiratory and sexually transmitted diseases. It generally does not cause any serious or severe side effects and is also safe to administer to children. It is available in different strengths, so it can be used according to the severity of the bacterial infection. 

Keep reading!

Team MBD

Read more- Azithromycin: antibiotic to treat bacterial infections – NHS (www.nhs.uk)