Azithromycin - Overview

Azithromycin is an antibiotic medication used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Push Health can connect people who might need an azithromycin prescription with licensed medical providers who can prescribe the medication when appropriate to do so.

What Is Azithromycin Used For?

Azithromycin prescription medication, marketed under the brand name Zithromax and found in a Z-pak, is a macrolide antibiotic like clarithromycin (Biaxin) and erythromycin (Ery, Erygel). Azithromycin works by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria and blocking protein synthesis. It covers certain typical and atypical respiratory pathogens and is often used when a macrolide is a reasonable choice or when a penicillin allergy limits other options. Bacteria that develop resistance to azithromycin typically do so through modifications in their 23S ribosomal RNA.

Azithromycin medication is used in the treatment of a number of conditions:

Sinus Infections
Bacterial sinusitis is a common indication for azithromycin. It is used when certain other antibiotics are not appropriate or when added bacterial coverage is needed.

Bronchitis and COPD Exacerbations
Azithromycin is frequently used for bronchitis and exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Community-Acquired Pneumonia
Azithromycin is used for mild to moderate community-acquired pneumonia as outpatient therapy in otherwise healthy adults. Its coverage of both typical and atypical respiratory pathogens makes it a useful single-agent option for ambulatory pneumonia treatment.

Ear Infections
Azithromycin may be used for ear infections (otitis media) when an alternative medication is needed.

Strep Throat
Azithromycin may be used as an alternative medication for strep throat patients with penicillin allergies. It is not generally recommended as a first-line treatment.

Chlamydia
Azithromycin 1g as a single dose was previously a first-line treatment for uncomplicated urogenital chlamydia. The 2021 CDC STI treatment guidelines updated the preferred treatment to a doxycycline regimen instead, making azithromycin an alternative agent. A licensed medical provider can advise on the most appropriate treatment for chlamydia based on current guidelines.

Azithromycin should only be used when a susceptible bacteria infection is confirmed or suspected. It should not be used for viral colds, flu, COVID-19, most nonspecific coughs, or typical urinary tract infections.

Azithromycin - Dosage and Cost

Azithromycin is typically available as 250 mg and 500 mg tablets. A common outpatient regimen is the Z-Pak course: 500 mg on day 1 and then 250 mg daily on days 2-5 (total 1.5 g). Other regimens (including single-dose schedules for specific indications) depend on the infection. Azithromycin has a long tissue half-life so drug levels persist after the last dose. Even if symptoms resolve, the prescribed course should be finished.

Generic azithromycin is usually inexpensive (often under $1 per tablet). Insurance and prescription savings cards may also help reduce any costs.

Can I Buy Azithromycin Online?

Azithromycin is a prescription medication and is not available OTC (over the counter). Push Health can connect people who might need azithromycin with licensed providers who can prescribe the medication and route it to the patient's pharmacy when appropriate to do so.

Azithromycin - Side Effects

Azithromycin can cause side effects but is generally tolerated well. Common side effects include, but are not limited to, diarrhea, nausea and abdominal pain.

More serious side effects from azithromycin use include palpitations, vomiting, dyspepsia, fatigue, rash, and arrhythmias (e.g. QT-interval prolongation). Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea has been reported with the use of any antibiotic. Liver effects are uncommon but have been reported.

People with a known allergic reaction to azithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics should not use it. Alcohol use can worsen gastrointestinal side effects and may impair the immune response so most providers advise limiting or avoiding it while using the medication. Concerns about side effects should be directed to one's medical provider.

How to Get an Azithromycin Prescription with Push Health

• Complete a brief health intake. Answer a few questions about health history and current medications.
• Connect with a licensed medical provider. A provider will review your information and evaluate whether azithromycin or another medication is appropriate for your situation. Same-day consultations are available.
• Receive your prescription. If appropriate, your provider will send a prescription to the pharmacy of your choice. No office visit is required.
• Pick up your medication same day. Generic azithromycin is available at most pharmacies and typically costs under $20 for a standard 5-day course.

No health insurance or subscription is required. Medical providers are available now.

More Azithromycin Information

• Azithromycin - Medline