Zif-A
Generic Name
Azithromycin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| zif a 48 mg tablet | ৳ 5.00 | ৳ 50.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Zif-A 48 mg tablet contains Azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. The 48 mg strength is uncommon and typically requires specific medical guidance for its use.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
The 48 mg strength is highly atypical for standard adult systemic use of Azithromycin, which typically ranges from 250 mg to 1000 mg depending on the indication. Consult a physician for appropriate dosing guidance.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required for elderly patients based on age alone. However, the 48 mg strength is not standard for this group, and a physician should be consulted.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment necessary for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 10 mL/min).
How to Take
Take orally, with or without food. To minimize gastrointestinal side effects, it may be taken with food. Do not take with aluminum or magnesium-containing antacids.
Mechanism of Action
Azithromycin works by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms and, thus, inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. This inhibition is bacteristatic, but at high concentrations, it may be bactericidal.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 2-3 hours
Excretion
Primarily unchanged in bile (approximately 50% of an oral dose); minor renal excretion (approximately 6% of an oral dose)
Half life
68 hours (terminal half-life)
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration; bioavailability is approximately 37%. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 2-3 hours.
Metabolism
Hepatic (via N-demethylation); limited first-pass metabolism
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
Increased serum digoxin concentrations. Monitor digoxin levels.
Warfarin
Increased anticoagulant effect. Monitor International Normalized Ratio (INR) closely.
Nelfinavir
Increased azithromycin concentrations, may necessitate dosage adjustment.
QT prolonging drugs
Increased risk of cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics).
Antacids (aluminum/magnesium)
May reduce peak serum levels of azithromycin. Administer azithromycin at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after antacids.
Storage
Store below 30°C (86°F) in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and reversible hearing loss. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gastric lavage and general supportive measures may be initiated as needed.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed. Azithromycin is excreted into breast milk; use with caution during breastfeeding, weighing potential risks and benefits.
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
Increased serum digoxin concentrations. Monitor digoxin levels.
Warfarin
Increased anticoagulant effect. Monitor International Normalized Ratio (INR) closely.
Nelfinavir
Increased azithromycin concentrations, may necessitate dosage adjustment.
QT prolonging drugs
Increased risk of cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics).
Antacids (aluminum/magnesium)
May reduce peak serum levels of azithromycin. Administer azithromycin at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after antacids.
Storage
Store below 30°C (86°F) in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and reversible hearing loss. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gastric lavage and general supportive measures may be initiated as needed.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed. Azithromycin is excreted into breast milk; use with caution during breastfeeding, weighing potential risks and benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from manufacturing date, depending on specific formulation and manufacturer.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved (Generic)
Patent Status
Expired for generic Azithromycin
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established Azithromycin's efficacy and safety across various indications and standard dosages. Specific clinical data for a 48 mg tablet formulation would be particular to its intended use and may not be widely available.
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)
- International Normalized Ratio (INR) for patients on concomitant warfarin therapy
- Electrolytes (e.g., potassium, magnesium) if there is a risk of QT prolongation
Doctor Notes
- Verify the specific indication and appropriate dosage for Zif-A 48 mg, as this strength is highly unusual for systemic Azithromycin and may be tailored for specific pediatric or niche uses.
- Counsel patients on completing the full course of therapy and potential drug interactions, especially with anticoagulants (warfarin) and drugs that prolong the QT interval.
- Advise patients to report any signs of hepatotoxicity, severe diarrhea, or cardiac symptoms promptly.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve.
- Do not share this medication with others, as it is prescribed for your specific condition.
- Report any persistent or severe side effects, especially severe diarrhea, jaundice, or heart palpitations, to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid taking antacids containing aluminum or magnesium within 2-4 hours of taking Zif-A.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
This medication may cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some individuals. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent reinfection and spread of infection.
- Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, especially if experiencing diarrhea.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.