Azo Capsule 250mg

About Azo Capsule 250mg

Azo Capsule 250mg Uses

• Treatment of bacterial chest infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia
• Treatment of throat and sinus infections
• Treatment of ear infections
• Treatment of skin and soft tissue infections
• Treatment of certain sexually transmitted bacterial infections

Azo Capsule 250mg Benefits

• Short 3 to 5 day course improves adherence to treatment
• Once daily dosing compared to multiple daily doses of some antibiotics
• Stays active in tissue for several days after the last dose
• Useful option for people with penicillin allergy

What Experts Say

Azithromycin belongs to the macrolide class of antibiotics. It works by binding to the bacterial ribosome and blocking protein synthesis, which stops bacteria from multiplying and allows the body's immune system to clear the remaining infection.

Its long tissue half life allows shorter treatment courses than many older antibiotics, often just three to five days rather than seven to ten days. This is one reason it is widely prescribed for respiratory, ear and skin infections, though it has no effect against viral illnesses such as the common cold or seasonal flu.

Regulatory agencies have flagged a small increase in the risk of heart rhythm changes with azithromycin, particularly in people with existing heart conditions or those taking other QT prolonging drugs. This is why prescribers review a patient's heart history and current medicines before starting treatment, and why repeat courses are not advised without proper clinical assessment.

Drug Class

• Macrolide antibiotic

Azo Capsule 250mg formula

• Azithromycin

Available forms

• Capsule

How to use Azo Capsule 250mg?

• The capsule is usually taken once daily for the number of days the doctor prescribes
• It can be taken with or without food, though food may reduce mild stomach upset
• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium should be avoided within 2 hours of the dose
• The full course should be completed even if symptoms settle early
• A missed dose should be taken as soon as remembered unless the next one is close

Drug Interactions

• Warfarin: Azithromycin can increase the blood thinning effect and bleeding risk
• Digoxin: Levels of digoxin may rise, increasing the risk of toxicity
• Antacids: Aluminum or magnesium antacids taken close to the dose reduce absorption
• Other QT prolonging drugs: Combined use raises the risk of dangerous heart rhythm changes

Risks and warnings

• Heart rhythm risk: May prolong the QT interval and is used cautiously in people with existing heart rhythm problems
• Liver problems: Past jaundice or liver problems from azithromycin use means the drug should not be used again
• Severe diarrhea: Watery or bloody diarrhea during or after treatment needs prompt medical review
• Allergic reaction: Rare but serious allergic reactions and severe skin reactions have been reported
• Not for viral infections: This antibiotic has no effect on colds, flu or other viral illnesses

Azo Capsule 250mg Side Effects

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Mild rash
• Rare heart rhythm changes
• Rare liver enzyme changes or jaundice

Storage Conditions

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Keep the capsule in its original strip until the dose is due
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack