Zmax (Oral)

Generic name:azithromycin (oral route) [ ay-zith-roe-MYE-sin ]
Drug class:Macrolides

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 23, 2022.

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Zithromax
• Zithromax Tri-Pak
• Zithromax Z-Pak
• Zmax

Available Dosage Forms:

• Powder for Suspension, Extended Release
• Tablet
• Powder for Suspension

Therapeutic Class: Antibiotic

Chemical Class: Macrolide

Uses for Zmax

Azithromycin is used to treat certain bacterial infections in many different parts of the body. This medicine may mask or delay the symptoms of syphilis. It is not effective against syphilis infections.

Azithromycin belongs to the class of drugs known as macrolide antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. However, this medicine will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

Before using Zmax

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of azithromycin to treat sinusitis in children or to treat pneumonia in children younger than 6 months of age. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of azithromycin oral suspension and tablets to treat pharyngitis or tonsillitis in children younger than 2 years of age. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Geriatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of azithromycin in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have heart rhythm problems (eg, torsades de pointes) which may require caution in patients receiving azithromycin.

Breastfeeding

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Interactions with medicines

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other preca...