ATM 200MG

# Azithromycin 200 mg ## SHORT DESCRIPTION Azithromycin 200 mg is a **macrolide antibiotic** used to treat certain bacterial infections. It works by stopping bacteria from producing essential proteins needed for their growth and multiplication. It may be prescribed for selected **respiratory tract, ear, throat, skin and certain sexually transmitted bacterial infections**. Azithromycin does not work against viral infections such as the common cold or flu. ## KEY BENEFITS * Treats susceptible **bacterial infections** * Helps eliminate bacteria responsible for certain respiratory infections * May be used for selected ear, throat and skin infections * Can be used for certain sexually transmitted bacterial infections when appropriate * Has a relatively long duration of action, allowing convenient dosing schedules * Available in pediatric formulations where appropriate ## USES / INDICATIONS Azithromycin 200 mg may be prescribed for susceptible bacterial infections such as: * Certain **respiratory tract infections** * Community-acquired pneumonia * Certain throat and tonsil infections * **Acute bacterial sinusitis** in selected cases * Certain ear infections, particularly in children * Selected skin and soft-tissue infections * Certain sexually transmitted infections, depending on the organism and local treatment guidelines The exact approved uses depend on the formulation, patient age and local prescribing guidelines. **Azithromycin should not be used to treat viral infections such as influenza or the common cold.** ## HOW IT WORKS Azithromycin belongs to the **macrolide antibiotic** class. It binds to the **50S subunit of bacterial ribosomes** and interferes with bacterial protein synthesis. This prevents susceptible bacteria from growing and multiplying, allowing the body's immune system to clear the infection. ## DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION The appropriate dose depends on the **patient's age, body weight, infection and formulation**. * Take Azithromycin exactly as prescribed. * Pediatric doses are generally calculated according to **body weight**. * Follow the complete treatment schedule prescribed by your doctor. * The medicine may usually be taken with or without food, depending on the formulation. * If using an oral suspension, shake the bottle well before each dose. * Measure liquid doses with the supplied measuring device rather than a household spoon. * Complete the prescribed course unless your healthcare professional tells you otherwise. * Do not share antibiotics with another person. * Do not use leftover antibiotics for a future illness. ### Missed Dose Take the missed dose when remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not take two doses together. ## SIDE EFFECTS Common side effects may include: * Nausea * Diarrhea * Vomiting * Abdominal pain * Stomach discomfort * Headache * Dizziness * Loss of appetite ### Serious Side Effects Seek medical attention if you experience: * Severe or persistent diarrhea * Severe abdominal pain * Yellowing of the skin or eyes * Dark urine * Severe allergic reaction * Difficulty breathing * Fainting * Fast or irregular heartbeat * Severe skin rash, blistering or peeling * Hearing changes or hearing loss Antibiotic-associated diarrhea, including **Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea**, can occur during or after antibiotic treatment. ## PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS * Use azithromycin only for **bacterial infections that are susceptible to the antibiotic**. * Do not use it for viral infections such as colds or flu. * Tell your doctor if you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to azithromycin, erythromycin or other macrolide antibiotics. * Inform your doctor if you have a history of **QT prolongation or abnormal heart rhythm**. * Tell your doctor if you have significant liver disease. * Use caution if you have low potassium or magnesium levels. * Tell your doctor about other medicines that may affect heart rhythm. * Seek medical attention for severe or persistent diarrhea. * Complete the prescribed antibiotic course unless your doctor advises otherwise. * Unnecessary antibiotic use can contribute to **antibiotic resistance**. * Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding. ## DRUG INTERACTIONS Azithromycin may interact with: * **Warfarin and other anticoagulants** — may affect anticoagulant response in some patients. * **Digoxin** — may increase digoxin exposure in certain individuals. * **Colchicine** — requires caution because macrolide antibiotics can increase colchicine toxicity. * **Certain antiarrhythmic medicines** — may increase the risk of QT prolongation and abnormal heart rhythms. * **Other QT-prolonging medicines** — may increase the risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias. * **Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium** — may require appropriate timing depending on the azithromycin formulation. * **Cyclosporine or other medicines metabolized through certain liver enzymes** — monitoring may sometimes be required. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements you are taking. ## STORAGE INFORMATION ### Tablets * Store according to the manufacturer's instructions. * Keep in the original packaging. * Protect from excessive heat, moisture and direct sunlight. * Keep out of reach of children. ### Oral Suspension * Store according to the specific product instructions. * Shake well before each use. * Do not use beyond the recommended period after reconstitution. * Discard leftover suspension according to the manufacturer's instructions. Do not use the medicine after its expiry date or if the packaging is damaged. ## PRESCRIPTION STATUS **Prescription medicine.** Azithromycin 200 mg should be used under the direction of a qualified healthcare professional. Prescription requirements may vary according to the country and formulation. ## GENUINE MEDICINE ASSURANCE For safe and genuine medicine use: * Purchase Azithromycin 200 mg only from a licensed and reputable pharmacy. * Check the medicine name, strength and dosage form. * Verify the batch number and expiry date. * Ensure the packaging and seal are intact. * Check the manufacturer's information. * Avoid products with damaged, altered or suspicious packaging. * Purchase antibiotics only from authorized sources. * Consult a pharmacist if you have concerns about product authenticity. ## FAQ ### What is Azithromycin 200 mg used for? Azithromycin 200 mg is an antibiotic used to treat **certain bacterial infections**, including selected respiratory, ear, throat, skin and other infections. ### Is Azithromycin 200 mg an antibiotic? Yes. Azithromycin is a **macrolide antibiotic**. ### How does Azithromycin work? It blocks bacterial protein production by binding to the **50S ribosomal subunit**, preventing susceptible bacteria from growing and multiplying. ### Can Azithromycin treat a cold or flu? No. Colds and influenza are usually caused by viruses, and azithromycin does not treat viral infections. ### Is Azithromycin 200 mg suitable for children? Azithromycin is available in pediatric formulations, and dosing is generally based on the child's **body weight and the infection being treated**. A doctor should determine the appropriate dose. ### How should Azithromycin 200 mg be taken? Take it exactly as prescribed. The dosing schedule depends on the infection, patient's age, weight and formulation. If it is an oral suspension, shake the bottle well and measure each dose accurately. ### Should Azithromycin be taken with food? This depends on the formulation. Follow the product instructions or your healthcare professional's advice regarding food. ### Can I stop Azithromycin when I feel better? Do not change or stop antibiotic treatment without consulting your healthcare professional. Follow the prescribed treatment duration. ### What are the common side effects of Azithromycin? The most common side effects include **nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort and headache**. ### Can Azithromycin cause diarrhea? Yes. Diarrhea is a common side effect. Severe or persistent diarrhea, particularly during or after treatment, should be evaluated because antibiotic-associated colitis can occur. ### Can Azithromycin affect the heart? Rarely, azithromycin can affect the heart's electrical activity and increase the risk of **QT prolongation and abnormal heart rhythms**, particularly in susceptible patients. ### Can Azithromycin cause liver problems? Rarely, azithromycin can cause liver injury. Contact your healthcare professional if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe fatigue or persistent abdominal symptoms. ### Can Azithromycin be taken with antacids? Some antacids containing aluminum or magnesium can affect absorption depending on the azithromycin formulation. Follow the product-specific instructions or ask your pharmacist about appropriate timing. ### Can Azithromycin be taken with paracetamol? Paracetamol can generally be used with azithromycin, but you should follow the recommended dose and consider your overall medical condition and other medicines. ### Can Azithromycin be taken during pregnancy? Azithromycin may be used during pregnancy when a healthcare professional determines that treatment is appropriate. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. ### Can Azithromycin be taken while breastfeeding? Azithromycin may be used during breastfeeding when clinically appropriate. Consult your healthcare professional before taking it. ### What should I do if I miss an Azithromycin dose? Take the missed dose when remembered unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose. ### What happens if I take too much Azithromycin? An overdose may cause severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach discomfort or other adverse effects. Seek medical attention if you suspect an overdose. ### Does Azithromycin cause antibiotic resistance? Inappropriate or unnecessary use of antibiotics can contribute to **antibiotic resistance**. Use azithromycin only when prescribed and follow the prescribed treatment instructions. ### How long does Azithromycin stay in the body? Azithromycin has a relatively long half-life and remains in tissues for an extended period after the last dose. This is one reason certain treatment courses can use fewer doses than some other antibiotics. ### Can Azithromycin be used for viral infections? No. Azithromycin works against susceptible bacteria and does not treat viral illnesses such as the common cold or influenza. ### How should Azithromycin 200 mg be stored? Store it according to the manufacturer's instructions, protected from excessive heat and moisture and kept out of reach of children. For oral suspension, follow the specific storage and discard instructions supplied with the product. ## MEDICAL DISCLAIMER This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Azithromycin 200 mg is a **prescription antibiotic** and should be used only when appropriate for a susceptible bacterial infection. Unnecessary antibiotic use can contribute to antibiotic resistance. Seek medical attention for severe allergic reactions, persistent or bloody diarrhea, fainting, irregular heartbeat, severe skin reactions or signs of liver problems. Always use Azithromycin 200 mg exactly as prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional.