Zithromax dispersible is an azithromycin-containing medication with high effectiveness. It is widely used to treat many diverse infections caused by bacteria. People buy it to treat respiratory, skin, ear, and sexually transmitted diseases in adults. In children, it is used to treat a middle ear infection, pneumonia, tonsillitis, etc.
The main active ingredient, azithromycin, is a macrolide antibiotic that interferes with the growth of bacterial cells. It treats bacterial infections in different parts of the human body. The medicine is also prescribed in the currently approved strategy of treatment of sexually transmitted vaginal or urinary tract infections caused by chlamydia. It should be noted that despite its general effectiveness in treating bacteria-induced illnesses, Zithromax should not be used to treat any diseases of viral origin.
The main active ingredient accumulates primarily in lysosomes, which is especially important for eliminating potentially dangerous intracellular pathogens. It has been proven that phagocytes deliver azithromycin to the areas of infection, where it is released. The detected levels of the substance in the affected cells are 24–34% higher than in healthy tissues and correlate with the degree of the inflammation process. Since the active ingredient is accumulated in bactericidal concentrations for five-seven days, it can be used for short (3-day and 5-day) therapeutic courses.
Unlike standard azithromycin-containing medications, Zithromax dispersible is manufactured in the form of powder for suspension for oral administration containing 100 mg/5 ml or 200 mg/5 ml of the active ingredient. Fast dissolution and increased absorption rate allow this medication to provide a more rapid effect than pills.
Indications
Zithromax dispersible is prescribed to treat the following conditions:
- infectious and inflammatory diseases caused by microorganisms sensitive to azithromycin;
- infectious illnesses of the upper respiratory tract (tonsillitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, etc.);
- infections of the lower respiratory tract (bacterial and atypical pneumonia, chronic pneumonia, bronchitis, etc.);
- infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissues;
- urinary tract infections (gonorrheal and non-urethral urethritis, cervicitis);
- Lyme disease;
- diseases associated with Helicobacter pylori (as part of combination therapy).
Interactions and Precautions
Zithromax dispersible must be prescribed with care, especially if there is a chance of administration with other drugs. Particular attention should be paid when this medicine is prescribed along with the following drugs:
- antacids;
- astemizole;
- digoxin;
- dihydroergotamine;
- ergotamine;
- magnesium salts;
- triazolam.
Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium may decrease the absorption of azithromycin if taken simultaneously with Zithromax dispersible. If you take antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium, wait at least two hours before or after taking the drug.
Your healthcare provider should be informed about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, and/or herbal products. In addition, inform your healthcare provider if you smoke, use illegal drugs, or consume increased daily doses of caffeine and/or alcohol. These substances may affect how the medicine works leading to side effects and/or decreasing its positive effects. Unnecessary administration or misuse of the antibiotic may lead to its decreased effectiveness.
Inform your physician if you have any of the following health conditions:
- liver diseases;
- stomach problems (especially colitis);
- severe kidney diseases;
- pneumonia;
- other chronic illness;
- unusual or allergic reactions.
Dangerous Signs and Side Effects
Common side effects that you should report to your health care professional as soon as possible include the following:
- dark yellow or brown urine;
- difficulty breathing;
- severe diarrhea;
- skin rash;
- itching;
- irregular heartbeat;
- chest pain.
Among adverse reactions that may require professional medical help, the most characteristic ones include the following:
- diarrhea;
- headache;
- dizziness;
- stomach pain or cramps;
- increased sensitivity to the sunlight;
- fatigue;
- nausea.
If your symptoms do not improve in two to three days from the beginning of the therapy, you should contact your healthcare provider. Keep out of the sun, wear protective clothing outdoors, and avoid bright sunlight.
Take this antibiotic according to the prescribed routine to achieve the best curative effect.
Continue taking Zithromax dispersible until the established treatment period ends, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Early discontinuation of the therapy may allow bacteria to resume their growth, which may result in antibiotic resistance development.
Severe allergic reactions associated with this drug are relatively rare. Nonetheless, get medical help if you observe any signs of a serious allergic reaction, including severe fever, rash, itching/swelling (especially severe swelling of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, etc. If you notice adverse effects not listed above, contact your doctor.
Prescription
Zithromax dispersible, which contains azithromycin, is a medicine available on prescription. A medical professional must approve an antibiotic before use because it is supposed to treat bacteria. This medicine is prescribed even for a single dose. Prescription helps reduce the chances of resistance, promotes effective treatment of infections, decreases the chances of vaccine resistance, and endeavors to ensure patients are given the right amount that meets their health needs.
Difference Between Zithromax Dispersible and Zithromax Standard
Zithromax can be found in different formulations: Zithromax Dispersible and Standard Zithromax. Let’s check the differences between them. Here’s a table showing the main differences between Zithromax Dispersible and Zithromax:
Feature |
Zithromax Dispersible |
Zithromax (Standard) |
Formulation |
Dispersible powder for oral suspension for those who have trouble swallowing |
Tablets and powder for oral suspension |
Administration |
Dissolves in water; easier to swallow |
Taken as whole tablets or reconstituted suspension |
Dosage Forms |
Typically available in a single dosage form |
Available in 250 mg and 500 mg tablets; powder for suspension |
Bioavailability |
Enhanced due to the dispersible nature |
Standard bioavailability |
Indications |
Respiratory, skin, ear, and sexually transmitted diseases |
Respiratory, skin, ear, and sexually transmitted diseases |
Patient Suitability |
Ideal for children and those with swallowing difficulties |
Suitable for adults and those who can swallow pills |
Benefits of Using Zithromax Dispersible
Zithromax dispersible has many advantages over other drugs in treating infections because of its wide range of activity and beneficial pharmacokinetic properties. Because of its long half-life, the medicine can be prescribed as a single dose daily, benefiting children and other patients with swallowing difficulties. Moreover, azithromycin also has immunomodulatory capabilities, which might be beneficial for treating respiratory diseases and aiding patients in preventing inflammation, which is portrayed beyond its antibiotic function. Its effectiveness, ease of use, and safety make Zithromax dispersible an excellent choice for patients.
Mail Order
Zithromax dispersible can be ordered online via mail order services, which helps patients avoid visits to the pharmacy. This service is of great use for people with mobility difficulties or those who cannot access a pharmacy due to distance. A simple medical questionnaire should be filled in and submitted, the answers of which are examined by a professional medic who finds suitable treatment. This method protects individuals’ privacy and confidentiality; drugs are sent through the postal service, so patient information remains secure and confidential. There are no unnecessary delays in getting essential medicines.