Zithromax
(azithromycin)
Treats bacterial infections.
Our bottom line
Zithromax (azithromycin) is good for treating many bacterial infections and is available in generic form. However, it may cause headache, dizziness, or rash.
- Drug class: Infection
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (azithromycin)
Upsides
- Available as a generic in the tablet and suspension form.
- The suspension can be used if you have problems swallowing.
- Used to treat many types of bacterial infections.
- Bacteria is less resistant to this antibiotic, meaning that Zithromax (azithromycin) will fight off the bacteria better. Your doctor may run tests to see which antibiotics will kill the bacteria causing your infection.
- Immediate release form can be taken with or without food.
What to expect from azithromycin, on one page
Download Fact Sheet
909Downsides
- Must space out antacids by at least 2 hours.
- Use with caution if you have liver disease.
- Must be used with caution if you are on medications to thin the blood (anticoagulants) because of increased risk of bleeding.
What to expect from azithromycin, on one page
Download Fact SheetZithromax (azithromycin) is an antibiotic. It kills bacteria by preventing them from reproducing and repairing themselves.
- Drug class: Infection
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (azithromycin)
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Liquid
- Extended-release liquid
Prices and coupons
Skip prices section. Skip to what to expect section.
Pay as low as$137.93Retail priceRetail priceLearn more- CostcoGet free coupon$140.09
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What to expect when you take Zithromax (azithromycin) for Bacterial infection
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Starts to kick inFull effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Upset stomach
- Allergic reaction
Side effect rates for Zithromax (azithromycin)
- Vomiting5%5%
- Diarrhea4%4%
- Abdominal pain2%2%
- Vomiting2%2%
- Diarrhea2%2%
The placebo bar shows how common a side effect was for people taking a sugar pill instead of azithromycin.
People taking azithromycin felt side effect more
People taking azithromycin felt side effect less
Risks and Warnings for Zithromax (azithromycin)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.As with all antibiotics, Zithromax (azithromycin) can cause diarrhea. You can try preventing this by taking probiotics in the form of yogurt, supplements or drinks a few hours after you take the medication. In some rare cases, some people get a very bad form of diarrhea caused by bacteria called C. difficile. The symptoms include watery or bloody stool, stomach pain and cramps, and fever. It can start weeks or even months after taking Zithromax (azithromycin). If you have any of these symptoms, do not try to treat them on your own and call your doctor right away.
Common concerns from people taking Zithromax (azithromycin)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?- Take the immediate release liquid and tablet with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach.
- Worth itLow hassleReviewed azithromycinon 7/18/2016As with any antibiotic, be sure to supplement with probiotic foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut to replace intestinal flora.28ManBacterial sinusitis
- In rare cases, Zithromax (azithromycin) can cause liver damage which results in hospitalization or possibly death. Talk to your doctor if you notice unusual nausea/vomiting, fever, pain in your abdomen, loss of appetite, yellowing of your skin or eyes, or dark colored urine.
- Use with caution if you have liver disease.