Azithromycin (Generic)
Generic Name
Azithromycin 500 mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Various Generic Manufacturers
Country
Global (varies by manufacturer)
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| az 500 mg tablet | ৳ 55.00 | ৳ 165.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract, skin, and sexually transmitted infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For most infections: 500 mg once daily for 3 days, or 500 mg on day 1 followed by 250 mg once daily for 4 days. For specific STIs: 1 g single dose.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required in elderly patients, but caution is advised due to potential for QT prolongation.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment (CrCl <10 mL/min).
How to Take
Take orally, with or without food. To minimize gastrointestinal side effects, it may be taken with food.
Mechanism of Action
Azithromycin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis through binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, thereby stopping bacterial growth.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action for antibacterial effect is usually within hours, but clinical improvement may take 2-3 days.
Excretion
Mainly excreted unchanged in the bile, with a small amount excreted in the urine.
Half life
Terminal elimination half-life is long, approximately 2-4 days.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; bioavailability is approximately 37%.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver, with the formation of inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin, or any macrolide or ketolide antibiotic
- History of cholestatic jaundice/hepatic dysfunction associated with prior azithromycin use
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
Increased digoxin levels. Monitor digoxin levels.
Warfarin
Increased anticoagulant effect. Monitor INR closely.
Nelfinavir
Increased azithromycin concentrations. Monitor for side effects.
Antacids (aluminum/magnesium)
May reduce peak serum levels of azithromycin. Administer azithromycin at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after antacids.
QT prolonging drugs (e.g., amiodarone, quinidine, sotalol)
Increased risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. Avoid co-administration if possible.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and reversible hearing loss. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Azithromycin is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture, depending on the manufacturer.
Availability
Available in pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics
Approval Status
Approved by FDA/DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent (Generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Ongoing research explores new indications for Azithromycin, including its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (LFTs) in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or during prolonged therapy
- Renal function tests if severe renal impairment is suspected
Doctor Notes
- Consider local resistance patterns when prescribing Azithromycin.
- Advise patients on the importance of completing the full course.
- Monitor for QT prolongation in high-risk patients (e.g., those with known cardiac arrhythmias, hypokalemia).
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of medication, even if symptoms improve.
- Do not share this medicine with others.
- Report any unusual side effects to your doctor.
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness in some individuals. If affected, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hydration.
- Avoid alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.