About azithromycin as dihydrate
Macrolide antibiotic
Used for
- Certain bacterial respiratory infections, including pneumonia
- Some ear, throat, and sinus infections
- Selected skin infections
- Certain sexually transmitted infections
Usual adult dose
Often 500 mg on day one, then 250 mg daily for four days; regimens vary by infection.
Usual dose in children
Usually 10 mg/kg on day one, then 5 mg/kg daily for four days; infection-specific limits apply.
Common side effects
- Nausea, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Changes in liver tests
Important warnings
- Does not treat viral infections such as colds or flu.
- Rarely causes serious allergic reactions or liver injury.
- May affect heart rhythm, especially with certain conditions or medicines.
- Use carefully with significant liver disease.
Pregnancy
May be used when clinically indicated; evidence has not shown a clear increase in birth defects.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk; infant diarrhoea or rash is possible.
Interactions
- Warfarin: may increase bleeding risk or alter clotting tests.
- Some heart-rhythm medicines: increased risk of abnormal rhythm.
- Aluminium- or magnesium-containing antacids can affect absorption timing.
- Digoxin and ciclosporin levels may require monitoring.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.