Xemi
Generic Name
Azithromycin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
xemi 320 mg tablet | ৳ 50.15 | ৳ 200.60 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Xemi (Azithromycin) is 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 on day 1 followed by 250 mg once daily for 4 days. For Chlamydia trachomatis, a single 1g dose.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is needed for elderly patients with normal renal and hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment (CrCl <10 mL/min).
How to Take
Oral tablets/suspension can be taken with or without food. However, it's generally recommended to take it on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after food) for better absorption, particularly with the 1-gram single dose.
Mechanism of Action
Azithromycin works by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms, thereby inhibiting protein synthesis. This action is primarily bacteriostatic but can be bactericidal at high concentrations.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Variable, typically within 1-2 hours for peak plasma levels, but therapeutic effects can take longer.
Excretion
Mainly excreted unchanged in bile (up to 50% within 72 hours), and a small amount in urine.
Half life
Terminal elimination half-life is 2-4 days (48-96 hours), due to extensive tissue uptake and slow release.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; bioavailability is approximately 37%.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites.
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 closely.
Nelfinavir
Increased azithromycin concentrations; monitor for side effects.
Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium
May reduce peak plasma concentrations of azithromycin; administer azithromycin at least 1 hour before or 2 hours 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 severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and reversible hearing loss. Management involves supportive and symptomatic measures.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Excreted in breast milk; use with caution during lactation.
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 closely.
Nelfinavir
Increased azithromycin concentrations; monitor for side effects.
Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium
May reduce peak plasma concentrations of azithromycin; administer azithromycin at least 1 hour before or 2 hours 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 severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and reversible hearing loss. Management involves supportive and symptomatic measures.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Azithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Excreted in breast milk; use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Available in all pharmacies in Bangladesh
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established azithromycin's efficacy and safety for various bacterial infections.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or during prolonged use)
- Renal function tests (in severe renal impairment)
- INR (if co-administered with warfarin)
Doctor Notes
- Consider drug interactions, especially with warfarin and other QT-prolonging agents.
- Educate patients on the importance of completing the full course.
- Monitor for signs of C. difficile-associated diarrhea.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of medication even if symptoms improve.
- Do not share this medication with others.
- Report any severe or persistent side effects to your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, 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
Azithromycin may cause dizziness in some patients. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent spread of infection.
- Stay hydrated.
- Avoid alcohol during treatment as it may exacerbate side effects.
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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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