Factors that affect Zithromax® dosage include the medical condition being treated, the patient's age, and history of decreased liver or kidney function. In addition, other factors that affect Zithromax® dosage include existing medical conditions and current medications being taken. The recommended medication dosage is between 250 mg and 500 mg daily. The medication is generally taken for three to five days, however, when serious infections occur, treatment may be prolonged.
Zithromax® is a prescription antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. These infections include throat, ear, sinus, and ear infections, as well as skin infections. In addition, Zithromax® is also used in the treatment of gonorrhea and certain other sexually transmitted diseases. Off-label uses for this antibiotic include treating whooping cough, cat scratch disease, and acne.
Even at a lower Zithromax® dosage, side effects may occur. Side effects of Zithromax® include nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, and rash. In addition, headache, vomiting, and skin peeling can occur. More serious side effects of this antibiotic include jaundice, watery diarrhea, abnormal swelling, and irregular heartbeat. Also, rare side effects can occur, including ringing in the ears, vertigo, kidney failure, and severe intestinal infections.
Drug resistance may occur at a normal Zithromax® dosage. This can occur because of antibiotic overuse, and when it does occur, stronger, more potent antibiotics may be needed to resolve an infection. These strong antibiotics have the potential to cause hepatitis, kidney failure, reduced blood platelet levels, and other blood abnormalities. Typically, these potent antibiotics need to be administered in a hospital setting via an intravenous route.
Although rare, a serious condition called anaphylaxis can occur even at a modest Zithromax® dosage. This condition can cause swelling of the throat and tongue, chest pain, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. It is also a medical emergency and if the condition is not recognized and treated within minutes, the patient may experience shock or respiratory failure. For those with a known allergy to antibiotics, a medical alert identification bracelet should be worn to alert medical personal or first responders to their condition.
For mild allergic reactions to antibiotics, over-the-counter antihistamines can be taken. Antihistamines may help relieve hives, itching, and rash associated with treatment. It is important to note, however, that people who experience allergic reactions to antibiotics should not begin to self-treat themselves with antihistamines or any other medications unless the plan has been discussed with their health care providers. Doing so may worsen the condition or prolong the infection.
