Azimex
Generic Name
Azithromycin
Manufacturer
Example: Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh (hypothetical for Azimex brand)
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| azimex 500 mg tablet | ৳ 35.15 | ৳ 175.75 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Azimex 500 mg tablet contains Azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and certain sexually transmitted diseases.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For most infections: 500 mg once daily for 3 days OR 500 mg as a single dose on day 1, followed by 250 mg once daily on days 2-5. For Chlamydia: 1g as a single dose. For Gonorrhea: 1g or 2g as a single dose.
Elderly
No dosage adjustment needed for elderly patients with normal renal and hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment necessary for mild to moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance >10 mL/min). Caution is advised in severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <10 mL/min).
How to Take
Azimex tablets can be taken with or without food. For optimal absorption, some sources suggest taking it 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Always swallow the tablet whole with water.
Mechanism of Action
Azithromycin binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms, thereby inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. This ultimately interferes with the bacteria's ability to grow and multiply.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antibacterial effect typically observed within 2-3 hours.
Excretion
Excreted primarily via the bile into the feces (major route) and to a lesser extent via urine.
Half life
Terminal elimination half-life is 2-4 days, reflecting its extensive tissue distribution and slow release.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; bioavailability is approximately 37%. Peak plasma concentrations are reached 2-3 hours post-dose.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites; however, a significant portion is excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin, any macrolide or ketolide antibiotic, or any component of the formulation.
- History of cholestatic jaundice/hepatic dysfunction associated with prior azithromycin use.
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
May increase digoxin levels, monitor digoxin levels.
Warfarin
Increased anticoagulant effect, monitor INR.
Nelfinavir
Increased azithromycin concentrations, no dosage adjustment needed but monitor for side effects.
Ciclosporin
Increased ciclosporin levels, monitor ciclosporin levels.
QT-prolonging drugs
Increased risk of arrhythmias, use with caution.
Antacids (containing aluminum or magnesium)
Can reduce peak plasma levels of azithromycin. Take azithromycin at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after antacids.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose are typically an exaggeration of known side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and reversible hearing loss. Management involves general supportive measures and symptomatic treatment.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed. Azithromycin is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin, any macrolide or ketolide antibiotic, or any component of the formulation.
- History of cholestatic jaundice/hepatic dysfunction associated with prior azithromycin use.
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
May increase digoxin levels, monitor digoxin levels.
Warfarin
Increased anticoagulant effect, monitor INR.
Nelfinavir
Increased azithromycin concentrations, no dosage adjustment needed but monitor for side effects.
Ciclosporin
Increased ciclosporin levels, monitor ciclosporin levels.
QT-prolonging drugs
Increased risk of arrhythmias, use with caution.
Antacids (containing aluminum or magnesium)
Can reduce peak plasma levels of azithromycin. Take azithromycin at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after antacids.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose are typically an exaggeration of known side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and reversible hearing loss. Management involves general supportive measures and symptomatic treatment.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed. Azithromycin is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised when 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, refer to the package for exact expiry date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies worldwide
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies worldwide, including FDA and DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Azithromycin has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety across various bacterial infections.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or during prolonged treatment)
- Renal function tests (in patients with severe renal impairment)
- INR monitoring (for patients on warfarin)
- ECG monitoring (in patients at risk for QT prolongation)
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on the importance of completing the full course.
- Be aware of potential QT prolongation, especially in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or on other QT-prolonging drugs.
- Monitor for signs of liver dysfunction.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
- Do not share your medication with others.
- Report any severe side effects, especially severe diarrhea, rash, or signs of liver problems, to your doctor immediately.
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 resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Azithromycin may cause dizziness in some patients. Patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including automobiles, until they are reasonably certain that azithromycin therapy does not adversely affect their ability to engage in such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent further infections.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment, especially if liver effects are a concern.
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.
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