Azee 100 mg Dry Syrup

Description

Azee 100 mg Dry Syrup is a pediatric formulation of Azithromycin, an antibiotic manufactured by Cipla Ltd. It is commonly prescribed to treat a variety of bacterial infections in children.

Composition:

• Active Ingredient: Azithromycin 100 mg per 5 mL of syrup (after reconstitution).

What is Azithromycin?

• Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. This helps stop the growth and spread of bacteria in the body. Azithromycin is effective against a wide range of bacterial infections, particularly respiratory tract infections, ear infections, skin infections, and some sexually transmitted infections.

Indications (Uses):

Azee 100 mg Dry Syrup is used to treat various bacterial infections in children, including:

• Respiratory Tract Infections:
  • Pharyngitis (sore throat)
  • Tonsillitis
  • Sinusitis
  • Bronchitis
  • Pneumonia
• Ear Infections: Otitis media (middle ear infections).
• Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: Such as impetigo, cellulitis, and other bacterial skin infections.
• Gastrointestinal Infections: Such as traveler’s diarrhea.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Azithromycin is also used to treat infections like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea (in certain cases).
• Other Bacterial Infections: Including those caused by susceptible bacteria.

Dosage:

The dosage of Azee 100 mg Dry Syrup depends on the child’s weight and the type of infection being treated. The syrup is generally dosed based on milligrams per kilogram of body weight (mg/kg).

General Dosage Guidelines (for children aged 6 months to 12 years):

• For Respiratory Infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis):
  • 10 mg/kg body weight on Day 1, followed by 5 mg/kg per day for the next 4 days.
• For Otitis Media (Ear Infections):
  • Same as the respiratory infection regimen: 10 mg/kg on Day 1, followed by 5 mg/kg for 4 more days.
• For Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis:
  • Commonly, 10 mg/kg/day for 3 to 5 days, depending on the severity of the infection.

Example:

For a child weighing 10 kg, the dosage on Day 1 would be 100 mg (which is 5 mL of Azee 100 mg syrup), followed by 50 mg (or 2.5 mL) per day for the next 4 days.

How to Use:

• Reconstitution: The syrup comes as a dry powder in a bottle. Before use, it must be reconstituted with a specific amount of water (usually indicated on the label). Once mixed, the syrup is ready to use.
• Administration: Give the prescribed dose using the measuring spoon or syringe provided in the packaging. Shake the bottle well before each dose to ensure uniformity.
• With or Without Food: Azithromycin can be taken with or without food. However, if it causes stomach upset, it may be given with food.

Side Effects:

Azee 100 mg Dry Syrup is generally well tolerated, but some children may experience side effects. Common side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal symptoms:
  • Diarrhea or loose stools
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Abdominal pain or cramps
  • Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Skin rash or mild allergic reactions.

Rare but serious side effects include:

• Severe allergic reactions: Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or hives.
• Severe diarrhea: Azithromycin can sometimes lead to Clostridium difficile infection, causing severe diarrhea.
• Liver issues: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or pale stools.
• Heart problems: Azithromycin may cause changes in heart rhythm (QT prolongation), although this is rare, especially in children.

Precautions:

• Allergy to Azithromycin or other macrolides: If your child is allergic to azithromycin, erythromycin, or other macrolide antibiotics, do not use Azee 100 mg Dry Syrup.
• Liver or Kidney Disease: Use with caution in children with liver or kidney problems, as the medication is processed through these organs.
• Heart Conditions: Azithromycin may affect the heart’s rhythm, and it should be used cautiously in children with existing heart conditions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Azithromycin is generally considered safe during pregnancy (Category B) and can be used while breastfeeding, but always consult a doctor before use.

Drug Interactions:

• Antacids: Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum may decrease the absorption of azithromycin. If your child needs an antacid, wait at least 2 hours before or after giving Azee 100 mg syrup.
• Warfarin: Azithromycin can enhance the effects of warfarin (a blood thinner), so the INR (blood clotting level) may need to be monitored.
• Medications affecting heart rhythm: Azithromycin may interact with medications that affect the QT interval, increasing the risk of heart rhythm issues.

Contraindications:

• Known hypersensitivity to azithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics.
• Severe liver disease or active liver impairment.
• Heart arrhythmias or a history of QT prolongation.

Storage:

• Before reconstitution: Store the dry syrup at room temperature (20°C to 25°C or 68°F to 77°F), away from moisture and heat.
• After reconstitution: Store the syrup in the refrigerator and use within 5 to 7 days.
• Keep it out of the reach of children.