About azithromycin
Macrolide antibiotic
Used for
- Treats susceptible bacterial infections, including pneumonia and pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Used when injectable treatment is appropriate; it does not treat viral infections.
Usual adult dose
Usually 500 mg intravenously once daily; dose and duration depend on the infection. Switch to oral treatment when appropriate.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, or vomiting
- Pain or irritation at the injection site
- Raised liver enzymes
- Rarely, severe allergic reactions or abnormal heart rhythms
Important warnings
- Use only for infections caused by susceptible bacteria; unnecessary use promotes resistance.
- Can prolong the QT interval and rarely cause dangerous heart rhythms.
- Liver injury and severe allergic reactions are uncommon but possible.
- Injectable azithromycin is given by a healthcare professional, not as a rapid intravenous injection.
Pregnancy
May be used when clinically indicated; evidence is limited, so treatment depends on the infection and alternatives.
Breastfeeding
Azithromycin generally can be used while breastfeeding; monitor the infant for diarrhea, vomiting, or rash.
Interactions
- Warfarin: may increase bleeding risk; monitoring may be needed.
- Other medicines that prolong QT interval: increased risk of abnormal heart rhythms.
- Nelfinavir may increase azithromycin exposure and side effects.
- Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium can affect oral azithromycin; this injectable form avoids that interaction.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.