AZ 250mg Tablet 1 Strip

✔️ AZ may be prescribed for the following infections caused by susceptible bacteria:

• Lower respiratory tract infections: Certain cases of bronchitis and pneumonia.
• Upper respiratory tract infections: Sinusitis, pharyngitis, and tonsillitis when antibiotic treatment is appropriate.
• Ear infections: Acute otitis media.
• Skin and soft tissue infections: Selected bacterial infections.
• Sexually transmitted infections: Certain infections caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, including non-gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis.
• Other infections: Selected infections when supported by clinical assessment and bacterial susceptibility.

✔️ Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Available evidence has not established a clear major risk, but data are limited for some pregnancy outcomes. Azithromycin should be used during pregnancy when clinically indicated and prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Breastfeeding: Azithromycin may pass into breast milk. Consult a doctor before use while breastfeeding, and monitor the infant for diarrhea, vomiting, or rash if advised.

✔️ Side Effects:

AZ is generally well tolerated, but side effects may occur.

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea or loose stools

Other possible side effects:

• Headache
• Skin rash or itching
• Photosensitivity
• Temporary increases in liver enzyme levels

Rare but serious reactions:

• Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis or angioedema
• Liver injury or cholestatic jaundice
• Abnormal heart rhythms, including QT prolongation
• Severe or persistent antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Hearing impairment, particularly with high doses or prolonged treatment

✔️ AZ should not be used in patients with:

• Known hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin or other macrolide or ketolide antibiotics.
• A history of azithromycin-associated cholestatic jaundice or liver dysfunction.

✔️ Adults — oral administration:

• Certain respiratory or skin infections: A commonly referenced regimen is 500 mg once daily for 3 days, or 500 mg on day 1 followed by 250 mg once daily on days 2–5, depending on the indication.
• Certain chlamydial infections: A single 1 g dose has been used for selected indications. Current treatment guidelines and the clinician's assessment should determine the appropriate regimen.

Children:

Pediatric doses are calculated according to body weight and the specific infection. A commonly referenced regimen for certain infections is 10 mg/kg once daily for 3 days. Other infections may require different doses or durations. Do not use an adult dose for a child unless specifically prescribed.

✔️ Interaction

• Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium: May affect the absorption of certain oral formulations; separate administration as directed.
• Cyclosporine: Monitoring of drug concentrations may be necessary if used together.
• Digoxin: Azithromycin may increase digoxin exposure in some patients; monitoring may be required.
• Warfarin: Closer monitoring of blood clotting measures may be appropriate.
• Theophylline: Monitoring may be considered in patients receiving both medicines.
• Ergot derivatives: Concomitant use is generally avoided because of the potential risk of ergot toxicity.
• Medicines that prolong the QT interval: Certain antiarrhythmics and other medicines may increase the risk of abnormal heart rhythms when combined with azithromycin.
• Carbamazepine and methylprednisolone: Clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions have not consistently been demonstrated, but the full medication regimen should still be reviewed.

✔️ Safety Information:

• Allergic reactions: Serious hypersensitivity reactions may occur, sometimes requiring emergency treatment.
• Liver disease: Inform your doctor about previous liver problems or jaundice associated with antibiotic use.
• Heart conditions: Tell your doctor if you have a prolonged QT interval, an abnormal heart rhythm, a slow heart rate, low potassium or magnesium levels, or take medicines that affect heart rhythm.
• Hepatic impairment: Because azithromycin is eliminated mainly through the liver and bile, patients with significant liver disease require careful assessment. Avoid use in patients with a history of azithromycin-associated cholestatic jaundice or hepatic dysfunction.
• Older adults: Consider the possibility of heart rhythm abnormalities, kidney impairment and interactions with other medicines.
• Children: Use an age- and weight-appropriate formulation and dose under medical supervision.
• Diarrhea: Severe or persistent diarrhea during or after treatment may indicate antibiotic-associated colitis.
• Antibiotic resistance: Unnecessary use contributes to antimicrobial resistance. AZ should not be used for viral infections.
• Driving: Most patients can drive if they feel well, but avoid driving if you experience dizziness or other symptoms that affect alertness.
• Renal impairment: Dose adjustment is generally not required for mild renal impairment. Use caution in severe renal impairment because the evidence is more limited and adverse effects may be more likely.

✔️ Storage:

Store in a dry place, protected from excessive heat and light. Keep out of the reach of children. Store and use the reconstituted oral suspension according to the specific manufacturer's instructions.