Azithromycin (Azithromycin)
Overview of Azithromycin
The antimicrobial agents or antibiotics develops during the last 60 years are among the most dramatic examples of the advances of science. The remarkably powerful and specific activity of antimicrobial drug is due to their selectivity for highly specific targets that are either unique to micro-organism or much more important in them than in humans. Azithromycin belongs to a macrolide antibiotic. Azthromycin is a 15-atom lactone macrolide ring compound. Azithromycin is a semisynthetic derivative of Erythromycin obtained by the addition of methylated nitorgen into the lactone ring of Erythromycin. Azithromycin is effective against gram positive bacterias. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect. This is achieved by taking the medication at regular interval of time throughout the day and night as prescribed. Azithromycin is important to take the drug for the full time period as prescribed. If you discontinue the therapy, it may result in ineffective treatment.
Indication of Azithromycin
Azithromycin is primarily indicated in conditions like Cervicitits, Lower respiratory tract infections, Multiple myeloma, Otitis media, Reversal of excessive bradycardia, Rtis; otitis media, Skin and soft tissue infections, Soft tissue and skin infections, Status epilepticus (unlicensed use), Upper respiratory tract infections, Urethritis.
Contraindication of Azithromycin
Azithromycin is contraindicated in conditions like Hepatic impairment,Hypersensitivity.
Side Effects of Azithromycin
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Azithromycin, which give rise to further complications include Pseudomembranous colitis, Jaundice, Maculopapular rash, Cholestasis.,Azithromycin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Anaphylaxis, Angioneurotic edema. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Azithromycin therapy.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Azithromycin include Severe vomiting, Severe diarrhea, severe nausea, Hearing loss.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Azithromycin are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Flatulence, Dizziness, Vertigo, Headache, Fatigue, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Palpitation, Abdominal pain, Rashes, Photosensitivity, Deafness, GI disturbance.
Precautions of Azithromycin
Azithromycin should be used with caution in patients with illness or any allergy, especially allergies to drugs, liver disease, jaundice, history of colitis or stomach problems or kidney disease.This drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or lactation.