Azithron
Generic Name
Azithromycin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| azithron 500 mg capsule | ৳ 40.80 | ৳ 244.80 |
| azithron 200 mg suspension | ৳ 180.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Azithron is a macrolide antibiotic containing Azithromycin, used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections including respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and 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 trachomatis, 1 g as a single oral dose.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients with normal renal and hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is necessary for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance > 10 mL/min). Use with caution in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Can be taken orally with or without food. For best absorption, some formulations recommend taking it one hour before or two hours after a meal.
Mechanism of Action
Azithromycin binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms, thereby inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It prevents the translocation of peptide chains from one side of the ribosome to the other.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of antibacterial action typically within 2-3 hours.
Excretion
Mainly excreted unchanged in bile (about 50%), with a small amount excreted via kidneys (about 6%).
Half life
The terminal elimination half-life is approximately 68 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; bioavailability is approximately 37%. Food can reduce absorption.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic metabolism, though minimal; forms 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.
Antacids
May decrease peak serum concentrations of azithromycin; administer azithromycin at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after antacids.
Warfarin
Increased anticoagulant effect; monitor prothrombin time/INR carefully.
Nelfinavir
Significant increase in azithromycin serum concentrations; adjust azithromycin dose if co-administered.
Cyclosporine
Increased cyclosporine levels; monitor cyclosporine levels.
QT-prolonging drugs
Increased risk of QT interval prolongation and arrhythmias (e.g., quinidine, amiodarone, cisapride).
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 should be symptomatic and supportive, including gastric lavage and general supportive measures.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is excreted in human breast milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
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.
Antacids
May decrease peak serum concentrations of azithromycin; administer azithromycin at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after antacids.
Warfarin
Increased anticoagulant effect; monitor prothrombin time/INR carefully.
Nelfinavir
Significant increase in azithromycin serum concentrations; adjust azithromycin dose if co-administered.
Cyclosporine
Increased cyclosporine levels; monitor cyclosporine levels.
QT-prolonging drugs
Increased risk of QT interval prolongation and arrhythmias (e.g., quinidine, amiodarone, cisapride).
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 should be symptomatic and supportive, including gastric lavage and general supportive measures.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is excreted in human breast milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Usually 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture when stored properly.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
FDA Approved, DGDA Approved
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Azithromycin for its approved indications. Ongoing research continues to explore new applications.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (for prolonged or repeated courses)
- Renal function tests (in patients with severe renal impairment)
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on the importance of completing the full course of therapy to prevent antibiotic resistance.
- Advise patients about potential gastrointestinal side effects and how to manage them (e.g., taking with food if tolerated).
- Be aware of potential QT prolongation, especially in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or those on other QT-prolonging drugs.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor; do not skip doses or stop taking it early, even if you feel better.
- Do not save leftover medication for future infections or share it with others.
- Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsen.
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 resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Azithromycin may cause dizziness in some patients. If you experience dizziness, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent spread of infections.
- Avoid alcohol, as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects.
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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