Azimete
Generic Name
Azithromycin 500 mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| azimete 500 mg tablet | ৳ 30.00 | N/A |
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 sexually transmitted infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 500 mg orally as a single dose on day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on days 2-5, or 500 mg once daily for 3 days.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is required for elderly patients, but caution is advised in those with cardiac risk factors due to potential QTc prolongation.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is necessary for mild to moderate renal impairment. Caution should be exercised in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Azimete 500 mg tablet can be taken orally with or without food. To reduce gastrointestinal upset, it may be taken with food.
Mechanism of Action
Azithromycin works by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, thereby inhibiting protein synthesis and consequently the growth of bacteria.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 2-3 hours.
Excretion
Mainly excreted unchanged in the bile, with a smaller amount excreted in urine.
Half life
The terminal elimination half-life is 2-4 days, allowing for once-daily dosing.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; bioavailability is approximately 37%.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver, but only a small portion is active.
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
May increase serum digoxin levels. Monitor digoxin levels.
Antacids
Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium may decrease peak serum concentrations of azithromycin. Take azithromycin at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after antacids.
Warfarin
Increased anticoagulant effect, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. Monitor INR carefully.
Nelfinavir
May increase azithromycin serum concentrations.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and reversible hearing loss. Management involves symptomatic and supportive measures, including gastric lavage and general supportive care.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use only if clearly needed. Caution should be exercised when azithromycin is administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Azithromycin has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials for its efficacy and safety across various bacterial infections since its introduction.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (LFTs) if prolonged use or pre-existing hepatic impairment
- Renal function tests if severe renal impairment
- Electrolyte monitoring (especially potassium and magnesium) in patients at risk for QTc prolongation
Doctor Notes
- Consider susceptibility testing to confirm bacterial sensitivity.
- Monitor for signs of QTc prolongation, especially in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or those on other QTc-prolonging drugs.
- Advise patients on the importance of completing the full course to prevent antibiotic resistance.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the entire course of medication, even if symptoms improve.
- Do not share your medication with others.
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
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 dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Generally safe for driving, but if side effects such as dizziness or blurred vision occur, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during the course of treatment.
- Consider probiotics to help maintain gut health.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.