Azithromycin 20mg

Azithromycin 20mg — Uses and Benefits

Azithromycin is used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria in different parts of the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis, sinusitis and pneumonia
• Ear, nose and throat infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Certain sexually transmitted infections
• Typhoid fever caused by susceptible organisms

HOW IT WORKS

• Azithromycin belongs to a group of antibiotics called macrolides
• It stops bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow and multiply
• This helps the body's immune system clear the infection
• It is effective against many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not treat viral infections such as common cold or flu
• It is not effective for fungal infections
• It should not be used to prevent infections unless specifically advised by a doctor
• It is not a painkiller or fever reducer on its own

How to Use Azithromycin 20mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food, but taking it the same way each time helps consistency
• Swallow tablets/capsules with water; shake the oral suspension well before use
• Complete the full course even if you feel better before finishing it
• Do not share this medicine with others or use leftover doses for a new illness

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• Contact your doctor if you miss multiple doses

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep oral suspension away from freezing temperatures
• Keep out of reach of children
• Discard any unused liquid suspension after the recommended period, as advised on the label

Azithromycin 20mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhea or loose stools
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Vomiting
• Headache

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Change in taste
• Skin rash or itching
• Loss of appetite
• Mild fatigue

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe or watery diarrhea, especially with blood
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Severe skin rash, blistering or peeling
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing (allergic reaction)
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
• Severe weakness or difficulty hearing

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Azithromycin 20mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to azithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics like erythromycin or clarithromycin
• Have had liver problems caused by azithromycin in the past
• Are taking it without medical advice for a self-diagnosed condition

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of heart rhythm problems (such as QT prolongation)
• Have myasthenia gravis
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are taking other medicines, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium (may reduce absorption)
• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Medicines that affect heart rhythm
• Ergot-containing medicines
• Certain cholesterol-lowering statins

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take azithromycin for a common cold?

No, it is an antibiotic and does not work against viral infections like cold or flu.

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

No, you should complete the full course as prescribed to prevent the infection from returning or bacteria becoming resistant.

Can I take it with milk or antacids?

• It is best to avoid taking antacids close to your dose, as they may reduce absorption; food or milk generally does not cause major issues but follow your doctor's advice.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.