Azithromycin 250 mg- Bacterial infections remain a major global health issue. According to a WHO report, one in six common infections was antibiotic-resistant in 2023. This makes common diseases harder to cure and increases risks of severe illnesses. 82 million new infections of gonorrhea occurred globally in people aged between 15 and 20 years in 2020. These untreated infections can lead to complications, prolonged illnesses,s and increased transmission. 

Azithromycin is a widely recognized antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, ENT-related conditions, eye, and certain STI diseases like gonorrhea. The medication works by stopping the growth of bacteria. 

It can usually be taken with or without food. If you are consuming antacids like aluminium and magnesium, take azithromycin at least two hours before or after the antacid to ensure that it is absorbed properly. Take the tablets daily at the same time and finish the full course even if you start feeling better early.

Mechanism of Azithromycin

Azithromycin works by disrupting bacterial protein synthesis. It is a macrolide antibiotic. It enters the bacterial cell and binds to the 23S portion of the 50S ribosomal subunit. By binding to the ribosome, it prevents the translation of messenger RNA. Then it blocks the nascent peptide exit tunnel, which degrades the growing protein chain from moving through the ribosome. This further stops the bacteria from producing essential proteins required for their survival, effectively allowing the host’s immune system to remove the bacteria.

Uses of Azithromycin

Azithromycin is a trusted medicine to treat infections in both adults and children. The medication treats a range of infections, including:

• The conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, tonsillitis, strep throat, and sinus can be treated with Azithromycin.
• The tablets are prescribed for ear infections in both children and adults.
• The medication is also recommended to treat infections of the urethra and cervix caused by gonorrhea.
• Azithromycin may also be used in conditions like whooping cough and thyroid fever.

Side Effects of Azithromycin

The side effects of Azithromycin are generally related to gastrointestinal issues. They often improve after stopping the medication. The following are the frequently reported and most common side effects:

• Diarrhea or loose stools
• Vomiting
• Stomach Pain
• Decreased Appetite
• Changes in sense of taste 
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Skin Rash
• Nausea

Precautions for Azithromycin

While consuming Azithromycin tablets, you need to consider the following precautions. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.

•  Do not take Azithromycin if you have a history of allergic reactions to macrolide antibiotics. 
• The medication can cause a rare but serious heart condition. Inform your doctor immediately if you have a family history of QT syndrome, low levels of potassium and magnesium in your blood or a history of irregular heartbeat.
• Consulting your doctor is a must if you had a liver or a kidney disease previously. 
• Use the tablets during pregnancy or breastfeeding if recommended by your doctor.
• Do not stop taking the medication when you start feeling better. Complete the full course. Stopping early causes the bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics.
• Azithromycin may worsen the symptoms of a muscle-weakening condition.