Azithromycin (Zithromax)

Azithromycin (Zithromax) is an antibiotic commonly used to treat the sexually transmitted infection (STI) chlamydia.

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to azithromycin, erythromycin, or clarithromycin.

How to take azithromycin:

• Take four pills, all at the same time, with food.
• Avoid antacids within two hours of taking azithromycin.

• If you vomit within one hour of taking this medication, contact the clinic as your treatment will need to be repeated.

Precautions:

• Tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you are taking:

• • Anti-convulsant drugs
  • Cyclosporine
  • Digoxin
  • Ergotamine
  • Theophylline
  • Benzodiazepines (e.g. Diazepam, Triazolamor)
  • Warfarin

Instructions:

• Do not have any sexual contact for seven days after your treatment. This includes oral sex, vaginal sex, anal sex, digital sex (fingers), and sex with a condom.
• Do not have any sexual contact with your partner for seven days after his or her treatment.
• It is best not to mix alcohol and Azithromycin for up to 48 hours after finishing your treatment.
• If you have been told to come back for a repeat test in three to four weeks, use condoms until you have a result that is negative.
• Tell the doctor or nurse if you are breastfeeding or think you may be pregnant. A different treatment may be given. A repeat test should be done for all pregnant women to ensure that the infection has been cured. Azithromycin is not known to decrease the effectiveness of hormonal birth control.

Common side effects:

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and cramps are the most common side-effects. Headache and dizziness can also occur. These side-effects are all usually mild to moderate, and taking the antibiotic with food will help to reduce any side effects. This antibiotic does not decrease the effectiveness of birth control. If you have any questions, call KFL&A Public Health.

Revised: 2011-06-28