Zithromax is an macrolide antibiotic related to erythromycin.It fights bacteria in the body. Zithromax is used to treat many different types of infections caused by bacteria, such as respiratory infections, skin infections, ear infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. In children, it is used to treat middle ear infection, pneumonia, tonsillitis, and strep throat.
Zithromax may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide. Important information about Zithromax Do not use Zithromax if you have ever had an allergic reaction to azithromycin or similar drugs such as erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, E.E.S.), clarithromycin (Biaxin), telithromycin (Ketek), or troleandomycin (Tao). There are many other medicines that can interact with Zithromax. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you. Take Zithromax for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Zithromax will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. Take Zithromax on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
Zithromax (azithromycin) for Bronchitis: I'm on the 3rd day of the 5-day treatment (2 pills on day 1 and 1 pill each of the next 4 days) and have had no bad side effects when taking this medication. My bronchitis finally seems to be clearing up and I'm pleased with this medication.
Zithromax (azithromycin) for Sinusitis: I get sinusitis several times a year. The old-fashioned 5-day Z-packs used to work really well for me. They still do "knock down" the worst of it (I carry a filled prescription from my doctor when I'm traveling on business) ... but in the past several years I've noticed that sometimes the sinusitis will rebound in a couple of weeks and I end up having to take a different type of antibiotic. Unfortunately, those secondary antibiotics tend to get to me -- queasy stomach, the "taste" of the medicine even hours later. None of that with Zithromax. The only time I had a bad experience with Zithromax side effects was the three-day pack.