Azithromycin

Azithromycin is a prescription antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections in adults and children. It belongs to a class of antibiotics known as macrolides. This medication works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, which stops the growth of susceptible bacteria and helps the body eliminate the infection.

Azithromycin is available in multiple dosage forms and strengths. The most commonly prescribed tablet strengths are 250 mg and 500 mg, both FDA-approved. In some international markets, a 600 mg tablet may be available for specific clinical needs, based on a healthcare provider’s judgment. This strength is not included in U.S. standard tablet formulations.

Our pharmacy currently provides azithromycin tablets in 250 mg and 500 mg strengths, which are FDA-approved. In addition, 600 mg tablets supplied through approved international manufacturers may be available where prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. The appropriate strength should always be selected under medical guidance to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Azithromycin tablets are FDA-approved for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including:

• Respiratory tract infections, such as community-acquired pneumonia
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Acute bacterial sinusitis
• Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
• Pharyngitis and tonsillitis (as an alternative in penicillin-allergic patients)
• Certain sexually transmitted infections, including uncomplicated genital infections caused by Chlamydia trachomatis

Azithromycin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, which is essential for bacterial growth and replication. It selectively binds to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, blocking the translocation step of protein synthesis. This prevents susceptible bacteria from growing and allows the immune system to clear the infection.

Here are the key pharmacist‑recommended tips for taking Azithromycin tablets:

• Take Azithromycin exactly as prescribed by your provider. Do not change the dose or duration independently.
• Do not chew or crush unless advised by a healthcare professional.
• It may be taken with or without food. Taking the tablets with food may help reduce stomach upset.
• Take this medication at the same time each day.
• Swallow tablets whole with a glass of water. Complete the full prescribed course, even if symptoms improve early, to prevent treatment failure and antibiotic resistance.
• If you miss an Azithromycin dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

Not everyone experiences side effects, and many are mild or temporary. Azithromycin side effects may include:

Common Side Effects of Azithromycin

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort
• Vomiting
• Headache

Serious or Rare Side Effects of Azithromycin

• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, trouble breathing)
• Liver problems (hepatitis, abnormal liver tests)
• Heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation, irregular heartbeat)
• Hearing problems (rare, usually reversible)
• Severe skin reactions (very rare)
• Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (can be serious)

• Do not share your Azithromycin tablets with others.
• Antibiotics must be used only for confirmed or suspected bacterial infections.
• Use with caution if you have heart rhythm problems, as it can cause QT prolongation, which may lead to serious arrhythmias.
• Elderly patients, those with low potassium/magnesium, or those with existing arrhythmias are at higher risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes.
• Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, as it can raise liver enzymes and worsen existing liver problems.
• Azithromycin can rarely cause Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea, which may occur even weeks after treatment. Seek medical help if you develop severe diarrhea.
• Use with caution if you have myasthenia gravis (may worsen muscle weakness).
• Avoid taking antacids containing aluminum or magnesium at the same time; separate doses by at least 2 hours.
• Safety in infants under 6 months has not been established; IHPS risk has been noted in neonates <42 days. Use only if specifically instructed by the provider.
• Azithromycin does not work for viral infections such as colds or flu.

What to Avoid When Taking Azithromycin?

When taking Azithromycin, you should avoid:

• Taking aluminum/magnesium antacids at the same time. Separate antacids by at least 2 hours.
• Using other QT‑prolonging drugs unless your doctor approves.
• Stopping the antibiotic early, even if you feel better.
• Alcohol, if it worsens stomach upset.

Who Cannot Take Azithromycin?

Azithromycin should not be taken by people with:

• A known allergy to Azithromycin, erythromycin, or other macrolide antibiotics.
• A history of liver dysfunction or cholestatic jaundice associated with prior azithromycin use.
• Severe liver disease (use only if benefits outweigh risks).
• Known QT prolongation or a history of serious arrhythmias, especially in elderly patients or those with electrolyte abnormalities.

The Azithromycin dose varies by infection type. The dosing schedule below is based on typical recommendations in the official prescribing information for Azithromycin (Zithromax):

The exact dose and duration should always be determined by a provider based on the type of infection and individual patient factors.

An overdose of Azithromycin can be serious. If an overdose is suspected, contact your healthcare provider or poison control center immediately.

Possible Symptoms of Azithromycin Overdose May Include:

• Severe nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Dizziness
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations (in severe cases)

Azithromycin tablets do not require refrigeration. Follow these storage instructions to maintain the potency and quality of your medication:

• Store Azithromycin tablets at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Protect from moisture and humidity.
• Do not store the tablets in bathrooms, near kitchen sinks, or in other damp areas.
• Keep it away from direct sunlight.
• Store out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired tablets safely, following pharmacy or local disposal guidelines.

Azithromycin can interact with certain medications that affect heart rhythm, liver metabolism, or drug absorption. Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines, supplements, and herbs you take before starting this medication. Some Azithromycin interactions are:

Major Azithromycin Interactions (Use with caution/doctor approval required)

• Sotalol
• Haloperidol
• Moxifloxacin / Levofloxacin

These medicines may increase the risk of QT prolongation and serious heart rhythm problems when used with Azithromycin.

Moderate Azithromycin Interactions (Monitor closely)

• Warfarin
• Nelfinavir
• Cyclosporine
• Digoxin

Minor Azithromycin Interactions (No clinically significant interaction reported)

• Phenytoin
• Carbamazepine
• Theophylline

Several antibiotics can be used as alternatives to Azithromycin, depending on the type of infection and patient factors. Common Azithromycin alternatives include:

When you buy Azithromycin in the U.S., the cost can feel overwhelming for many patients. High prescription prices make it difficult to afford essential medications. That’s why many people choose to buy Azithromycin online from Polar Bear Meds.

Polar Bear Meds helps make treatment more affordable by offering Azithromycin at prices up to 80% lower than U.S. pharmacies, without compromising on quality or safety.

We source Azithromycin from licensed and regulated Canadian pharmacies, ensuring you receive genuine medication with a valid prescription. New customers can save even more by using our coupon code WELCOMEPB10 for an additional 10% off their first order.

Most orders are delivered within 3-5 business days via Xpress Post, making it easy and convenient to access your medication from home.

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/azithromycin-oral-route/description/drg-20072362
• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/050670s036,050710s051,050711s050,050784s037lbl.pdf
• https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a697037.html
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557766/
• https://www.drugs.com/azithromycin.html