Zithromax is a brand-name prescription antibiotic that treats bacterial infections of the ears, lungs, sinuses, skin, throat, and reproductive organs; pneumonia; bronchitis; and certain types of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It is part of an antibiotic drug class called macrolide antibiotics, which work by stopping the growth of bacteria that cause infections.

Zithromax comes in the oral dosage form of a tablet, an extended-release powder for suspension, and a regular-acting powder for suspension.

Zithromax treats bacterial infections of the ears, lungs, sinuses, skin, throat, and reproductive organs, pneumonia, bronchitis, and certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It can also treat diarrhea and other GI infections, as well as Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC)--a lung infection that can occur in people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Zithromax can be used less commonly to treat tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease and babesiosis.

It is important to only use antibiotics like Zithromax when prescribed, as taking antibiotics when they are not needed can increase your chance of contracting an antibiotic-resistant infection. Remember that antibiotics like Zithromax are only effective against bacterial infections and will not work against viral infections like the common cold or flu.

Macrolide antibiotics like Zithromax work by inhibiting something called bacterial protein synthesis. Simply put, Zithromax prevents bacteria from creating more bacteria by blocking a cell tunnel needed for replication. The bacteria can no longer make new proteins, and the bacterial growth eventually stops.

This mechanism makes Zithromax highly effective in killing the bacteria that can cause pneumonia, bronchitis, certain STDs, and other ear, lung, sinus, skin, and throat infections. However, antibiotics like Zithromax are only effective against bacterial infections and will not work against viral infections like the common cold or flu.

Zithromax has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these mild reactions do not go away within a few days.

Common side effects reported from Zithromax use include:

• Nausea
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Headaches
  
  

This is not a complete list of adverse effects – though these are among the most common. Seek medical attention right away if you experience any of the following symptoms while taking Zithromax:

• Changes in heartbeat
  
• Confusion/ dizziness
  
• Fainting
  
• Skin rash
  
• Hives
  
• Itching
  
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  
• Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
  
• Watery or bloody stool
  
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
  
• Extreme fatigue
  
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
  
• Lack of energy
  
• Abdominal pain
  
• Flu-like symptoms
  
• Muscle weakness
  
  

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with and any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with Zithromax.

Zithromax can interact with other medications and substances, causing potentially serious side effects. These medications and substances include certain anticoagulants (blood thinners), colchicine (Colcrys, Gloperba, Mitigare), cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune), digoxin (Lanoxin), dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal, Trudhesa); ergotamine (Ergomar, in Migergot), medications for irregular heartbeat such as amiodarone (Nexterone, Pacerone), dofetilide (Tikosyn), procainamide, quinidine, and sotalol (Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize), nelfinavir (Viracept), and phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek).

Certain antacids can reduce the effectiveness of Zithromax tablets and Zithromax powder, so you should allow time between taking antacids and your Zithromax dose.

In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

Zithromax tablets and powder for suspension are usually taken with or without food once a day for 1-5 days. Dosage can vary from 500 to 2000 milligrams (mg) once a day, but the starting dose and dose timing for Zithromax can differ depending on your age, weight, and diagnosis.

Take the medication exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes. Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of Zithromax without consulting with your provider first. If you begin to experience adverse side effects while taking this medication, like those listed above, inform your provider immediately.

To prevent your infection from becoming resistant to antibiotics, you should continue taking Zithromax until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Do not skip doses or stop taking Zithromax; follow your doctor’s instructions closely.

You should store your medication in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Zithromax is currently only available via prescription. This means a licensed health care provider must authorize the use of this drug.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription or refill an existing one. You can arrange for Same-Day pickup at a nearby pharmacy. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether Zithromax is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for Zithromax to be picked up near you—often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.