Antibiotic, Bacteriostatic, Macrolide antibiotic, Hepatic enzyme inhibitor
Brand Names
Zithromax®
Drug Information
Pharmacology
Macrolide antibiotic – bacteriostatic broad spectrum antibiotic.
Contraindications
General
- Contraindicated in patients with known sensitivity to this type of drug.
- Use with caution in patients with liver disease.
- Use only when benefit outweighs the risk during pregnancy as safety studies have not been done
Adverse Effects
General
- Can cause vomiting especially with high doses.
- Liver effects are also possible.
- Local IV site reactions have occurred.
- Very long tissue half lives in dogs and cats.
Interactions
Category Interactions
Antacid
- May reduce the rate of absorption.
Hepatic enzyme inhibitor
- Metabolism of other cytochrome P-450 metabolized drugs may be altered.
Drug Interactions
Cisapride
- Should not be used concurrently.
CycloSPORINE
- Azithromycin may increase blood levels of oral CycloSPORINE.
Sucralfate
- Sucralfate may decrease efficacy.
Available Forms
Human
- Oral Tablets – 250 and 600 mg; Zithromax ®. Powder for oral suspension – 20 mg/mL, 40 mg/mL and 1 g. packets; Zithromax ®. Powder for injection – 500 mg/vial; Zithromax ®.
Veterinary – General
- None
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