Azithromycin: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Buying Safely

Azithromycin is a common antibiotic used for many infections. You probably know it by brand names like Zithromax. It treats respiratory infections, ear infections, some skin infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections. Doctors like it because it usually works fast and you can take it once daily.

How azithromycin works is simple: it stops bacteria from making proteins they need, which weakens and kills them. It only fights bacterial infections — not viruses like the common cold or most sore throats. Using it for the wrong reason increases side effects and helps bacteria become resistant.

Typical adult doses vary by infection. For many chest infections or skin infections, a common plan is 500 mg on day one, then 250 mg daily for four more days. For some STIs or specific uses doctors may prescribe a single 1 g dose. Children get doses based on weight. Always follow your prescription and never change dose without talking to your prescriber.

Side effects usually are mild. The most common are nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, and headache. Serious reactions are rare but can include severe allergic reactions, liver problems, or heart rhythm changes. If you feel severe belly pain, yellowing of skin or eyes, fainting, or a fast irregular heartbeat, seek medical help right away.

Azithromycin interacts with a few other drugs. Tell your doctor about all prescription meds, over-the-counter pills, and supplements you take. Combining azithromycin with drugs that affect heart rhythm, certain blood thinners, or some HIV medications needs careful checks. Your pharmacist can review interactions quickly.

Antibiotic resistance is real. Finish the full course even if you feel better after a day or two. Stopping early can leave some bacteria alive and encourage resistant strains. Also, avoid pressuring your clinician for antibiotics when they’re not needed.

If you’re thinking of buying azithromycin online, be careful. Use licensed, reputable pharmacies that require a prescription and list a real address and pharmacist. Look for clear contact details, secure checkout, and positive verified reviews. Our site reviews online pharmacies and offers tips to spot shady sites, like missing contact info, overly low prices, or unclear shipping policies.

Store azithromycin at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children. Don’t use the medicine after the expiration date.

Got questions about your dose or side effects? Ask your prescriber or pharmacist — they can give specific advice based on your health history. If you think an online pharmacy is fake or sold bad meds, report it to local regulators and stop using that site.

Pregnant or breastfeeding? Tell your doctor before taking azithromycin. While it's used in some cases during pregnancy, your clinician will weigh risks and benefits. People with severe liver or kidney disease may need dose changes or monitoring. Always keep a list of current medicines when you see any clinician.

If side effects last more than a week, call your prescriber. For severe allergic signs such as swelling or breathing trouble, call emergency services immediately. Stay safe.