Azithromycin

Rx onlyWHO Essential

Antibiotic often given as a short course.

Macrolide antibiotic.

Generic name

Azithromycin

Drug class

Macrolides

ATC code

—

Pregnancy

Ask your doctor

Prescription

Required

Last updated

2026-01-15

Available forms

TabletSuspensionInjection

Uses

Chest infection
Throat infection
Ear infection
Some STIs

How it works

Stops bacteria from making the proteins they need to survive.

Medical: Binds bacterial 50S ribosome, inhibiting protein synthesis.

Common brand names

Zithromax, Z-Pak

India

Azithral, Azee

Typical dosage

adults500 mg once daily for 3 days (typical).

children10 mg/kg once daily.

Educational only. Never adjust dosage without medical guidance.

Side effects

Very common

—

Common

· Diarrhea
· Nausea
· Abdominal pain

Rare

—

Serious

· QT prolongation
· Liver problems

Warnings

Caution with heart rhythm disorders

Interactions

Medicine

Warfarin, Statins, Antiarrhythmics

Where you usually see it

GP clinicsTravel medicine kits

Timeline

1988
Introduced.

Fun facts

· Often called the 'Z-Pak' in the US for its 5-day pack.

Conditions it treats

Bacterial Infection

Related medicines

Amoxicillin

Common antibiotic for bacterial infections.

Compare

See how Azithromycin stacks up next to another medicine.

Azithromycin vs Ibuprofen Azithromycin vs Paracetamol Azithromycin vs Aspirin Azithromycin vs Naproxen

Frequently asked

Why is the course so short?

It stays in the body longer than most antibiotics.

Educational use only.This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.