Azithromycin: how to take it safely
Zithromax
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats chest, throat, ear, skin and some sexually transmitted infections.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
- Finish the full course, even if you feel better.
When to take it
Take it once a day, usually for 3 to 5 days.
Take it with
Tablets with or without food. Capsules on an empty stomach.
What to avoid
- Stopping the course early.
- Sharing or saving leftover antibiotics.
- Antacids within 2 hours of your dose.
- Tell your doctor if you have heart rhythm problems or liver disease.
Possible side effects
Diarrhoea, nausea, stomach pain.
Get help if
Rash, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, or trouble breathing: get urgent help. Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, or no improvement after 2 to 3 days: see a doctor. Palpitations or fainting: get help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.