Zithromax ^® (Brand)

What is Zithromax?
Zithromax is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat susceptible bacterial infections.

Who is it for?
Zithromax is most commonly used in dogs, cats, and rabbits.

What are the benefits?

Zithromax is one of the few antibiotics that is safe for rabbits. It treats a multitude of susceptible bacterial infections in dogs and cats, as well, and comes in an easy-to-dose oral suspension.

How does Zithromax work?
It prevents bacteria from producing proteins that are essential to their growth and reproduction. It therefore stops the spread of infection, allowing the body's immune system to kill the bacteria.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
No.

How is it given?
Shake oral suspension well before use. It is best to give the suspension on an empty stomach. The suspension should be used within 10 days after mixing.

Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. Use all of the medication prescribed. If your pet does not receive the entire course of treatment, the infection may recur or worsen.

What results can I expect?
Zithromax is well absorbed from the intestinal tract and is carried by the bloodstream to many tissues of the body. It will prevent bacteria from reproducing, which will eventually eliminate them from the body. Zithromax must be given for multiple days in a row. If doses are missed or the entire treatment regimen is not completed, the infection could recur or worsen. Consult your veterinarian if the animal's condition does not improve or worsens after beginning treatment with Zithromax.

What form(s) does it come in?
This medication comes in an oral suspension, but Zithromax tablets are also available.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Pronunciation
ZITH-roe-max

Common Drug Name
Azithromycin

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Zithromax?
Talk to your veterinarian about what tests and exams may be necessary while your pet is taking Zithromax. Also discuss how long the treatment period will be and what type of outcome is expected.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has liver or kidney diseases, may be pregnant or is nursing, or if you intend to breed your pet.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, and also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

What is the most important information I should know?
Follow your veterinarian's directions and give the full course of Zithromax as prescribed. If possible, give Zithromax on an empty stomach.

Consult your veterinarian if the animal's condition does not improve or worsens after beginning treatment with Zithromax.

Who should not take it?
Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to it or drugs similar to it or other macrolide antibiotics.

Use with caution in animals with liver disease. The safety of the medication in pregnant and lactating animals (female animals nursing their young) has not been determined. Consult with your veterinarian regarding the physical examinations and laboratory testing necessary prior to and during treatment with Zithromax.

This medication should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed.

What side effects may be seen when taking Zithromax?
The most common side effects, especially with high doses, are vomiting and diarrhea. It may have the potential of causing liver damage, which could result in jaundice (yellowing of the gums, skin, or eyes). If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How is it stored?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container. Do not store above 86°F. Once the human-label oral suspension is reconstituted (the powder is mixed with water), store at room temperature (do not refrigerate) and use within 14 days. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
If overdose should occur, you may see serious vomiting or diarrhea. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Zithromax?
Consult your veterinarian before using Zithromax with vitamins, supplements, cisapride, cyclosporine, digoxin, and oral antacids, since interactions may occur. Zithromax has no known food interactions.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.