Azee-500 Tablet 5′

Description

Azee-500 Tablet is a formulation of Azithromycin, an antibiotic manufactured by Cipla Ltd. It is typically used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Azee-500 Tablet contains 500 mg of Azithromycin as the active ingredient.

Composition:

• Active Ingredient: Azithromycin 500 mg per tablet.

What is Azithromycin?

• Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that works by inhibiting the protein synthesis of bacteria. This prevents bacteria from growing and reproducing, allowing the immune system to clear the infection.
• Azithromycin has a long half-life, meaning it stays in the body for an extended period, which allows it to be taken once daily for a shorter duration compared to other antibiotics.

Indications (Uses):

Azee-500 Tablet is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including:

• Respiratory Tract Infections:
  • Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP)
  • Bronchitis
  • Sinusitis
  • Pharyngitis and tonsillitis
• Ear Infections: Otitis media (middle ear infections)
• Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: Such as cellulitis, impetigo, and other skin infections.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs):
  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Urethritis
• Gastrointestinal Infections:
  • Traveler’s diarrhea (caused by susceptible organisms like Shigella or Campylobacter).
• Other Infections: Azithromycin is also used to treat other bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms.

Dosage:

The dosage of Azee-500 Tablet depends on the infection being treated and the patient’s age. The typical adult dosage for Azee-500 is:

• Respiratory Infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis):
  • 500 mg once daily for 3 to 5 days.
• For Acute Sinusitis:
  • 500 mg once daily for 3 days.
• For Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis:
  • A common regimen is 500 mg on the first day (Day 1), followed by 250 mg daily for the next 4 days (a total of 5 days).
• For Chlamydia:
  • A single 1,000 mg dose (two 500 mg tablets) is typically given.
• For Otitis Media (ear infections):
  • 500 mg once daily for 3 to 5 days depending on severity.

Note: Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist, as the dosage may vary based on the severity of the infection.

How to Take Azee-500 Tablet:

• Oral Administration: Take Azee-500 tablets by mouth with a full glass of water. The tablet can be taken with or without food.
• Do not crush or chew the tablet. Swallow it whole.

Side Effects:

Azee-500 (Azithromycin) is generally well tolerated, but some people may experience side effects. Common side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal symptoms:
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain or cramps
  • Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Skin Rash (rare)

Serious Side Effects (Rare):

• Allergic reactions: Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or severe rash.
• Liver problems: Symptoms of liver issues include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or pale stools.
• QT prolongation: Azithromycin can affect heart rhythm, leading to a condition called QT prolongation. This is rare but may be more common in individuals with a history of heart disease.
• Severe diarrhea: If you experience severe or persistent diarrhea, this could be a sign of Clostridium difficile infection, which requires immediate medical attention.

Precautions:

• Allergies: If you are allergic to azithromycin, erythromycin, or any other macrolide antibiotic, do not take Azee-500 Tablet.
• Liver or Kidney Disease: Use azithromycin with caution if you have liver or kidney disease. Dose adjustments may be needed.
• Heart Problems: Azithromycin has been associated with QT prolongation (a type of abnormal heart rhythm), so it should be used cautiously in patients with heart disease, especially those with a prolonged QT interval or those on other drugs that affect the heart’s rhythm.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Azithromycin is generally considered safe during pregnancy (Category B), but you should consult your doctor before taking it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Drug Interactions: Azithromycin may interact with other drugs, particularly those that affect the heart’s rhythm (e.g., antiarrhythmic drugs, certain antidepressants). Inform your doctor about all the medications you’re taking.

Drug Interactions:

• Antacids: Azithromycin may interact with antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, which can reduce the absorption of the drug. If you need to take an antacid, space the doses at least 2 hours apart.
• Warfarin: Azithromycin can increase the effects of warfarin (a blood thinner), which may increase the risk of bleeding. Your doctor may monitor your INR levels more frequently.
• Drugs that affect heart rhythm: Azithromycin can interact with other medications that affect the QT interval, increasing the risk of arrhythmias.

Contraindications:

• Known hypersensitivity to azithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics.
• Severe liver dysfunction or liver failure.
• History of QT prolongation or arrhythmias.

Storage:

• Store Azee-500 Tablets at room temperature (20°C to 25°C or 68°F to 77°F), away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the medication in its original container, out of the reach of children.