Azasite
Generic Name
Azithromycin 500 mg tablet
Manufacturer
Akorn Operating Company LLC
Country
USA
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| azasite 500 mg tablet | ৳ 35.11 | ৳ 140.44 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and certain sexually transmitted diseases.
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.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is required for elderly patients with normal renal and hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Caution advised in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
May be taken orally with or without food. To minimize gastrointestinal upset, it can be taken with food.
Mechanism of Action
Azithromycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms, thereby interfering with mRNA translation.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Peak plasma concentrations reached in 2-3 hours.
Excretion
Excreted mainly unchanged in bile; a small amount is excreted in urine.
Half life
Terminal elimination half-life of 2-4 days.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; however, food can decrease the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) but not the total absorption (AUC).
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by N-demethylation.
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
Warfarin
Increased anticoagulant effect, monitor INR.
Nelfinavir
Increased serum concentrations of azithromycin.
Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium
Reduced peak plasma levels of azithromycin; take azithromycin at least 2 hours before or after antacids.
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 nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and reversible hearing loss. Management involves gastric lavage and general symptomatic and supportive measures.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Excreted in breast milk; caution advised during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Expired for generic Azithromycin
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of azithromycin for various approved indications.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (especially in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or prolonged use).
- INR monitoring in patients on concomitant warfarin therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on the importance of completing the full antibiotic course.
- Monitor for signs of QT prolongation in patients at risk for cardiac arrhythmias.
- Advise patients about potential gastrointestinal side effects and interactions with antacids.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
- Do not share this medicine with others.
- Report any severe or persistent side effects to your doctor.
- Avoid antacids for 2 hours before or after taking Azasite.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Azithromycin may cause dizziness. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how it affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if experiencing diarrhea.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.