Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Azithromycin Injection (AZITHROMYCIN - INTRAVENOUS)

For treating bacterial infection.

Brand Name(s): Zithromax

Generic Name: Azithromycin

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

This medicine should be given over 60 minutes.

Carefully follow the instructions for preparing this medicine before injection.

The medicine needs to be mixed before being injected.

Follow package direction for diluting medicine with IV fluids or as instructed by your doctor or nurse.

Do not dilute the medicine until ready to use.

If using the vial, do not remove the medicine from the vial until ready to use.

Always inspect the medicine before using.

Do not use the medicine if it contains any particles or if it has changed color.

Keep at room temperature until mixing. Refrigerate any extra mixed medicine until ready to use it.

Protect medicine from light.

Inject the medicine immediately after mixing.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine is associated with a rare, but serious problem of the liver. Speak to your doctor about the early signs of liver problems and the benefits and risks of using this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Please tell your doctor if you have moderate to severe diarrhea while on this medicine. Do not treat the diarrhea with over-the-counter diarrhea medicine.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • diarrhea
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • nausea and vomiting
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain
  • yeast infection of mouth
  • vaginal itching or yeast infection

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
  • ear problems (ringing in the ears, hearing loss)
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • fainting
  • swelling in the neck or throat
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • muscle weakness
  • red, burning, or itchy skin
  • slurred speech
  • severe stomach or bowel pain
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.