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Medicine Highlights
| Uses | 1- To treat bacterial infection 2- To treat swelling in throat (Pharyngitis) |
| Common Side Effects | 1- Diarrhea 2- Loose stools |
| Additional Information | Avoid taking alcohol or tobacco with this medicine. |
| Storage | 1- The medicine should be stored at room temperature 2- Keep away from sunlight and moisture 3- Keep away from the reach of children |
| How to Take This Medicine | 1- To treat bacterial infection 2- To treat swelling in the throat (Pharyngitis) |
Azithromycin Summary
Azithromycin 100 mg is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections like throat infections and respiratory issues. It works by stopping bacteria from making proteins they need to grow. Common side effects include diarrhea and mild stomach issues, but some people may also experience skin irritation or fever. This medicine is generally safe during pregnancy for treating certain infections but should be used with caution in those with liver problems. Avoid alcohol while taking it. Taking too much (over 2000 mg/day) can cause serious side effects, like liver issues and a fast heart rate, so seek immediate medical help if this happens.
Azithromycin Uses
Azithromycin 100 mg is an oral medicine belonging to the class of macrolide medicines. It is used for following indications:
- Bacterial infection
- Pharyngitis or tonsils
Directions for use
- Take azithromycin exactly as prescribed by your doctor, regularly at the same time each day.
- Do not stop taking azithromycin without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better.
- If you forget to take the medicine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next one, then just skip it.
Azithromycin side effects
More Common
- Diarrhea
- Loose stools
Less Common
- Blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of the skin
- Cracked, dry, or scaly skin
- Fever
- Swelling
How Azithromycin works
Azithromycin works by binding to the bacterial ribosome, stopping the bacteria from making proteins they need to survive and multiply. It can enter cells easily, making it effective against bacteria that hide inside our cells, as well as some parasites and viruses. It also helps reduce inflammation, especially in lung diseases. However, some bacteria develop resistance by mutating their ribosomes or using pumps to remove the drug.
Safety Measures and Warning
📌 1- Liver Dysfunction
If you have liver dysfunction then inform your doctor about it as this medicine can further damage your liver.
📌 2- Pregnancy
According to ACOG guidelines, azithromycin may be used in combination regimens for preterm membrane rupture, as prophylaxis during emergency cesarean, and in high-risk endocarditis cases before vaginal delivery.
Azithromycin Interaction with Other Medicines
Avoid taking azithromycin 100 mg with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:
Azithromycin Interaction with Food Product
Azithromycin does not interact with any food products, but alcohol should be avoided before and after taking the medicine, as it can increase or decrease the effect of azithromycin.
Storage
- The medicine should be stored at room temperature
- Keep away from sunlight and moisture
- Keep away from the reach of children
Azithromycin Chemical Structure
IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name
(2R,3S,4R,5R,8R,10R,11R,12S,13S,14R)-11-[(2S,3R,4S,6R)-4-(dimethylamino)-3-hydroxy-6-methyloxan-2-yl]oxy-2-ethyl-3,4,10-trihydroxy-13-[(2R,4R,5S,6S)-5-hydroxy-4-methoxy-4,6-dimethyloxan-2-yl]oxy-3,5,6,8,10,12,14-heptamethyl-1-oxa-6-azacyclopentadecan-15-one
Intake routine/cycle
📌 1- Daily Dose
Take azithromycin exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.
📌 2- Missed Dose
If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.
📌 3- Overdose
You should not take more than 2000 mg of this medicine per day. Overdose symptoms may include increased heart rate, liver toxicity, allergic reactions, rash, and fever. If someone has taken too much and shows these symptoms, take them to the hospital immediately.
FAQ’s
1. Will azithromycin make you sleepy?
➡️ No, azithromycin does not cause sleepiness, but it can make you feel unusually dizzy or tired.
2. Can azithromycin treat a cold?
➡️ No, azithromycin is used to treat bacterial infections; it does not treat colds, flu, or other viral infections.
3. Is azithromycin safe to take during pregnancy?
➡️ Azithromycin is generally considered safe during pregnancy if you have a bacterial infection that needs treatment.
Reference
- NHS. Azithromycin: how and when to take it [Internet]. London: National Health Service; 2023 [cited 2025 Apr 30]. Available from.
- Pace Hospitals. Azithromycin: uses, side effects, composition, dosage & price [Internet]. Hyderabad: Pace Hospitals; [cited 2025 Apr 30]. Available from.
- GoodRx. Azithromycin side effects: what you should know [Internet]. Santa Monica (CA): GoodRx; [cited 2025 Apr 30]. Available from.
- Cleveland Clinic. Azithromycin (Zithromax): uses & side effects [Internet]. Cleveland (OH): Cleveland Clinic; [cited 2025 Apr 30]. Available from.
- Sandman Z, Iqbal OA. Azithromycin. [Updated 2024 Nov 9]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from.
- Mayo Clinic. Azithromycin (oral route) [Internet]. Rochester (MN): Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2025 Apr 30]. Available from.