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3.3 Minute

05-July-24 Team Medicover general-medicine

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed byDr Raja Selvarajan

Azithromycin 500 Tablet

Azithromycin 500 is an oral antibiotic and is used to treat various bacterial infections related to specific diseases. It is commonly prescribed for treating respiratory tract infections, skin infections and sexually transmitted diseases.

In this article, we will learn about its uses, benefits, side effects, dosages and who should avoid it to prevent any complication.

Azithromycin 500 Composition

Each Azithromycin 500 mg tablet contains:

500mg of azithromycin (active ingredient)
Inactive ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate and microcrystalline cellulose

Azithromycin 500 also comes in a liquid form known as Azithromycin syrup. This formulation contains 200mg of azithromycin per 5ml, making it easier for patients who have difficulties with swallowing tablets like children or elderly people.

Azithromycin 500 Uses

Azithromycin 500 mg is an antibiotic used to treat many bacterial infections. It belongs to a class of drugs called macrolides, which work by preveting the growth of bacteria in the body.

Here's what Azithromycin 500 is used for:

Respiratory infections: These include illnesses like bronchitis, pneumonia, sinus infections and sore throats that are caused by bacteria.
Ear infections: Commonly seen in children, especially for treating infections in the middle part of the ear.
Skin infections: Used to treat mild to moderate infections on the skin caused by bacteria.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, which can affect anyone.
Throat and tonsil infections: Particularly those caused by a type of bacteria called Streptococcus.
Typhoid fever and traveller's diarrhoea

For bacterial infections such as sore throat, fever, or sinus infections, it is advisable to consult our Medicover Hospital for accurate diagnosis and treatment guidance.

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Azithromycin 500 Dosage for Adults

When taking Azithromycin 500, it is important to follow the prescribed dosage and timing provided by your doctor.

The azithromycin 500 dosage for adults is typically a single 500mg tablet once daily for three days.

For more severe infections:

Doctors may recommend azithromycin 500 mg daily for 5 days.
The first day involves a higher dose (500 mg), followed by 250 mg for the next 4 days.

Always follow your healthcare provider's exact instructions. For the correct antibiotic dosage and safe use, consult our General Medicine doctors to ensure proper treatment based on your infection type.

Azithromycin Dose per kg for Children

For pediatric patients, the dosage is weight-based:

The recommendation is 10mg/kg once daily for three days.
Maximum of 500mg per day.

Consulting a doctor for accurate pediatric dosing is essential to ensure both efficacy and safety.

How to Use Azithral Tablet?

Azithral Tablet should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Here are general guidelines for proper use:

Take it once a day, usually at the same time each day, with or without food.
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew it.
If you have a sensitive stomach, taking it after food may help avoid nausea.
Complete the full course, even if you start feeling better. Stopping early may allow the infection to return.
Do not take antacids or iron supplements within 2 hours before or after taking Azithral, as they can reduce its effectiveness.

Always follow your doctor's instructions for dose and duration.

What if You Forget to Take Azithral Tablet?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule.
Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one, as it increases the risk of side effects.
If you frequently forget your doses, set reminders or alarms to stay on track.

The Benefits of Azithromycin 500

Azithromycin 500 offers several benefits for patients with bacterial infections. Here are some of the advantages of this medication:

Effective Against a Wide Range of Bacterial Infections

Azithromycin tablets IP 500 mg are broad-spectrum antibiotics effective against various bacteria, interrupting their protein synthesis to halt growth and spread.

Easy to Take

Available in both tablet and syrup forms, Azithromycin 500 is convenient for patients of all ages, especially children and the elderly.

Short Treatment Period

It can be shortened in most cases to a 3-day Azithromycin 500 course, which can help increase patient compliance and lessen the risk of creating a resistant strain.

Affordable

The cost of Azithromycin 500 mg, 3 tablets is low and is not patented, which is why it is available as a generic drug and can reach a large part of the population without health insurance.

Side Effects of Azithromycin 500

Azithromycin 500 is generally safe and well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects in some people.

Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea or loose stools
Stomach pain or cramps
Loss of appetite
Headache

Drug Interactions with Azithromycin 500

Azithromycin 500 mg can interact with some specific medicines, which may affect how either drug works or increase the risk of side effects.

Antacids: These can reduce the absorption of Azithromycin. Take antacids at least 2 hours before or after Azithromycin.
Blood thinners: Azithromycin may enhance the effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Regular monitoring may be needed.
Heart medications: Azithromycin can increase digoxin levels, which may lead to toxicity.
Drugs that prolong the QT interval: Combining with Azithromycin may increase the risk of irregular heartbeat.
Cyclosporine or tacrolimus: Used in organ transplant patients, their levels may rise when taken with Azithromycin, requiring close monitoring.
Nelfinavir: This may increase the side effects of Azithromycin, particularly liver issues and hearing problems.

Precautions and Who Should Avoid Azithromycin

Azithromycin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic, but like all medications, it should be used with caution in certain individuals. Taking proper precautions can help prevent unwanted side effects or complications.

Precautions While Using Azithromycin:

Complete the full course: Even if you feel better, stopping early may allow the infection to return or become resistant to treatment.
Avoid taking antacids: Wait at least 2 hours before or after taking aluminium or magnesium as they contain antacids.
Monitor for side effects: Watch for signs of allergic reaction, severe diarrhea or unusual fatigue.
Hydration: Especially if you experience diarrhoea or nausea.
Liver monitoring: If you have had liver disease, your doctor may monitor your liver function during treatment.

Who Should Avoid Azithromycin?

You should avoid the tablet if you:

Have severe liver problems
Have a history of heart rhythm disorders.
Are allergic to macrolide antibiotics.
Have myasthenia gravis
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Are on medication like warfarin, digoxin or drugs that affect heart rhythm.

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Conclusion

Azithromycin 500 remains a highly effective, convenient, and affordable option for treating a broad range of bacterial infections.

With proper use and following the correct azithromycin 500 dosage for adults, knowing the uses of azithromycin 500 and being aware of the potential side effects of azithromycin 500, patients can get a quick recovery.

Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalised advice and to ensure safe and effective use of Azithromycin tablets IP 500 mg.

Frequently Asked Questions

Azithromycin is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but it should only be used if clearly needed and under medical supervision.

Azithromycin side effects typically resolve within a few days after finishing the medication. If side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

To reduce the side effects of azithromycin, take it with food to minimize stomach upset, stay hydrated, and follow dosage instructions carefully. Discuss any concerns with your doctor.

Avoid taking azithromycin with antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, as well as drugs like erythromycin, warfarin, and certain cholesterol-lowering medications, unless advised by your doctor.

Azithromycin and paracetamol can generally be taken together, but it's best to consult your doctor or pharmacist to ensure there are no interactions specific to your health condition or medications.

Disclaimer:The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.