What is azithromycin used for?

Introduction to Azithromycin

Azithromycin is an antibiotic medication used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. These infections can range from skin, ear, sinus, throat, chest and reproductive infections, as well as some forms of STIs. It should be noted that azithromycin does not treat viral infections.

Azithromycin was first approved for medical use in 1991, and is now a popular medication prescribed to treat bacterial infections. The medication is sold in pill form, as a suspension, and intravenously.

Uses of Azithromycin

Azithromycin is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, making it a versatile antibiotic. The most common applications of the medication include ear infections, respiratory infections and STIs.

Azithromycin works by stopping the growth of bacterial cells, allowing your body’s immune system to take control and destroy the infection. The drug works best when it is taken within the first few days of symptoms appearing.

Azithromycin has also been found to be effective in treating the infection, Chlamydia. Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterial Chlamydia trachomatis. Symptoms of Chlamydia can include abdominal pain and a burning sensation when urinating.

Precautions and Side Effects

When prescribed azithromycin, it is important that you take the full course of treatment as prescribed. Do not stops taking it before the original time frame suggested, as this can allow some bacteria to remain in the affected area that the drug was unable to completely kill.

Azithromycin does have some side effects which can range from mild to more severe. The most common side effects of the medication include diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Allergic reactions to the medication can also occur, resulting in swelling of the tongue, lips or face, difficulty breathing, and hives.

Conclusion

Azithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections including respiratory infections, ear infections, and STIs. The medication is an effective treatment if taken within the first few days of the infection. It is important to take the full course of azithromycin and to be aware of potential side effects that include stomach pain, vomiting, and allergic reactions.