Azithromycin is in a class of drugs called macrolide antibiotics; it
is a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic chemically related to
erythromycin and clarithromycin (Biaxin). Azithromycin, is prescribed for adults to treat certain mild to moderate skin infections; upper and lower
respiratory tract infections, including pharyngitis (strep throat), tonsillitis, bronchitis and pneumonia; sexually transmitted
infections of the cervix or urinary tract; ear infections; and genital ulcer disease in men. In children, azithromycin is used to treat middle ear infection, pneumonia, tonsillitis, and strep throat.
SIDE EFFECTS: Azithromycin is generally well tolerated. The most
common side effects are diarrhea or loose stools, nausea, abdominal
pain, and vomiting, each of which may occur in fewer than one in twenty
persons who receive azithromycin. Rarer side effects include abnormal
liver tests, allergic reactions, and nervousness. |
