Azithromycin is a representative of the group of macrolide antibiotics - azalides, has a wide spectrum of antimicrobial action. The mechanism of action of azithromycin consists in inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis due to binding to the 50S subunit of ribosomes and preventing the translocation of peptides in the absence of an effect on the synthesis of polynucleotides, rather than the due bacteriostatic effect.

Gram-positive bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, some anaerobic and other microorganisms are sensitive to azithromycin. Azithromycin is inactive against gram-positive bacteria resistant to erythromycin.

Azithromycin accumulates in a bactericidal concentration at the site of inflammation for 5-7 days after taking the last dose, which allows for short (3- and 5-day) courses of treatment.

Treatment of infections caused by bacteria sensitive to azithromycin:

Contraindications to azithromycin are intolerance to the active substance or components of the preparation, or intolerance to other macrolide antibiotics, as well as severe liver function disorders.

The preparation should be taken on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal, drinking a large amount of water once a day. In case of missing 1 dose of the preparation, the missed dose should be taken as early as possible, and the next dose should be taken at an interval of 24 hours.

For the treatment of most infections, the dosage for adults is 500 mg per day for three days. The dosage of the preparation and the duration of treatment of complicated infections depends on the course and severity of the disease, the patient's condition and requires a doctor's consultation.

Children from 6 months are prescribed the preparation, taking into account body weight, 10 mg/kg in the form of a suspension. A 3-day course of treatment is recommended. Before use, it is necessary to prepare a suspension from the powder. To do this, pour boiled water cooled to room temperature up to the mark in the bottle with the powder and shake vigorously. After the foam settles, repeat the volume of suspension with water to the second mark, shake thoroughly. The suspension is ready for use. Before each use, the bottle is vigorously shaken and left to stand until the foam settles.

With an overdose of azithromycin, the following symptoms are usually observed: hearing impairment, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. They are reversible with supportive therapy. In the presence of symptoms of overdose, gastric lavage is recommended, the therapy is symptomatic and supportive.

Azithromycin kills the beneficial bacteria that live in the digestive tract. To restore the microflora, it is necessary to take acidophilic supplements or yogurts.

Mainly side effects when taking azithromycin concern the digestive system: diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, less often vomiting and flatulence. Some patients experienced acute allergic reactions, headaches, dizziness or drowsiness, as well as hearing problems. These side effects have occurred in a small number of people.

Azithromycin in the form of tablets - at a temperature not higher than 25 °C, in the form of a powder for preparing a suspension should be stored at a temperature not higher than 30 °C. The finished suspension is stored at a temperature not higher than 25 °C for 5 days.