Azithromycin is a semisynthetic broad-spectrum antibiotic with antiprotozoal, antifungal and antibacterial action belonging to the group of azalides. There are several forms of release of this drug: in tablets, capsules, powders or granules, which are diluted with water before intake, and also in ampoules in the form of a powder intended for breeding and intramuscular injections.
Drugs containing azithromycin
| Form of issue | Amount of active ingredient | Name of the drug |
|---|---|---|
| Powder for solution for injection | 500 mg | Sumamed |
| capsules | 250 mg | "Azivok", "Azitral", "Sumazid" |
| coated tablets | 125 mg | "Sumamed", "Zitrotsin" |
| Granules for the preparation of a suspension for oral administration | 100 mg / 5 ml | "Azitrus", "Sumamox" |
| Powder for the preparation of a suspension for oral administration | 100 mg / 5 ml | "Hemomycin", "Sumamed" |
| Powder for the preparation of a long-acting suspension | 2 grams | Zetamax retard |
Diseases in which azithromycin is used
This drug is used for infectious and inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system and hearing (angina, otitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, scarlet fever, bronchitis), with infections of the urinary system (urethritis). Also, azithromycin is effective in erysipelas and dermatoses, and it is prescribed for combined treatment of peptic ulcer diseases of the digestive system.
Contraindications and allergies
Allergic reactions to azithromycin are extremely rare, in less than 1% of patients, and are usually limited to skin rashes.
Contraindications to use, in addition to individual intolerance, are violations of kidney and liver function. Do not prescribe the drug to newborns and mothers during lactation. During pregnancy, the use of azithromycin is permitted under strict medical supervision, if the benefit to the mother exceeds the possible risk for the unborn child.
Side effects
Azithromycin is the least toxic antibiotic, with a low percentage of side effects. On average, adverse events occur in 9% of patients, whereas for other antibiotics in this group the figure is significantly higher (about 40% for erythromycin, 16% for clarithromycin).
Nevertheless, taking the drug can cause:
- pain in the stomach, nausea, diarrhea, in rare cases - flatulence and vomiting;
- heart palpitations and pains in the chest;
- headaches, dizziness, increased nervousness, sleep disturbance;
- itching and skin rashes;
- In case of injections, pain and inflammation can occur at the injection site;
- thrush in women.
When an overdose occurs, severe nausea, vomiting, temporary loss of hearing, diarrhea.
Aids and interactions with other drugs
The use of azithromycin together with alcoholic beverages and food slows down the absorption, so it should be taken 2 hours after or 1 hour before meals.
Azithromycin is incompatible with heparin, and caution should be exercised when using it together with blood thinners, for example, with warfarin.
Any antibiotic destroys the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract, so during the period of treatment it is recommended to take yogurt in capsules, "Bifidoform".