Zithromax (azithromycin, Z-pack)

Classification:

Antibiotic used to decrease the risk of becoming infected with MAC (mycobacterium avium complex)

A Guide to MAC

Form:

• 250mg tablets
• 500mg tablets
• 600mg tablets

Typical Dosages:

• Prophylaxis - (20 600mg tablets for a total of 1200mg once per week
• Treat Infections - (1) 500mg tablet once daily for five days - often this dose is pre-packaged as a "Z-pack"

Important Note! - dosages and routes of administration may depending on the type of infection and the age of the individual being treated (child vs. adult)

Special Instructions:

• Take dose 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.

  Important Note - Zithromax must be taken on an empty stomach

• Notify your doctor of all medications being taken prior to starting Zithromax.

Side Effects to Report to Your Doctor:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Nausea / vomiting
• Indigestion

Medication Side Effects and How to Treat Them

Serious Reaction:

Important Warning! - There is a chance that users can have a serious allergic reaction know as a hypersensitivity reaction. Symptoms of hypersensitivity include:

• facial swelling
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• red rash.

Important Instructions! - If you develop any of these symptoms stop Zithromax immediately and call your physician.

Drug Interactions and Incompatibility:

• Do not take with antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium such as Di-gel or Maalox.

More Information:

For more information on Zithromax, try About.com's Drug Finder

_Sources

Tarascon Pocket Pharmacopoeia - 2004 Classic Shirt Pocket Edition; Tarascon Publishing; Lompoc, CA; Copyright 1987-2004.