Zimax 250 mg

Description

Indications:
Zimax is used for treating infections caused by susceptible organisms in conditions like:

• Lower respiratory tract infections: bronchitis and pneumonia
• Upper respiratory tract infections: sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis
• Otitis media, skin, and soft tissue infections
• Sexually transmitted diseases: non-gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis caused by Chlamydia trachomatis

Dosage:

• Adults: 500 mg once daily for 3 days or a 5-day regimen starting with 500 mg on day 1, followed by 250 mg on days 2-5.
• Children:
  • 10 mg/kg once daily for 3 days for children over 6 months.
  • Varies by body weight:
    • 15-25 kg: 200 mg/day for 3 days
    • 26-35 kg: 300 mg/day for 3 days
    • 36-45 kg: 400 mg/day for 3 days

Pregnancy & Lactation:
Classified under Pregnancy Category B. Use only if alternatives are unavailable. Caution is advised for nursing mothers as it is unknown if azithromycin is secreted in breast milk.

Administration Instructions:

• Take at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food.
• Suspension preparation: Shake the bottle, add cooled boiled water to the label mark, and shake well.

Mechanism of Action:
Azithromycin binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, inhibiting protein synthesis without affecting nucleic acid synthesis. It accumulates in phagocytes, which transports it to the site of infection.

Drug Interactions:

• Avoid co-administration with ergot derivatives due to the risk of ergotism.
• Monitor cyclosporine, digoxin, and warfarin levels if taken concurrently.
• Antacids should be taken 2 hours apart from Zimax.

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal: nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, flatulence, vomiting
• Rare allergic reactions: rash, photosensitivity, hypersensitivity
• Occasionally reversible liver enzyme elevations

Contraindications:

• Known hypersensitivity to azithromycin or macrolide antibiotics
• Hepatic impairment or co-administration with ergot derivatives

Storage Conditions:
Store in a cool, dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

Precautions & Warnings:

• Serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported.
• Exercise caution in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment.
• May cause diarrhea; contact your doctor for persistent or severe symptoms.

Quick Tips:

• Complete the full course of treatment.
• Avoid taking antacids 2 hours before or after Zimax.
• Stop and consult your doctor if you experience an itchy rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.