Description

Azithromycin 500mg: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & UK Information

About Azithromycin

Azithromycin 500mg is a prescription antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. In the UK, it is commonly prescribed for:

• Chest and respiratory infections

• Skin and soft tissue infections

• Ear and throat infections

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including chlamydia

Azithromycin is usually taken once a day. For some infections, such as chlamydia, a single dose may be enough.
In certain cases, azithromycin may be taken daily to help prevent recurring chest infections.

Always read the patient information leaflet for full details on side effects and precautions.

How Does Azithromycin Work?

Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic. It works by stopping bacteria from producing the proteins they need to grow and survive. This slows bacterial growth and allows the infection to clear.

After swallowing the tablet or capsule, azithromycin is absorbed into the bloodstream. It then travels through the body to target the site of infection.

Symptoms often begin to improve within one to two days. However, it is important to complete the full course of antibiotics. This helps prevent the infection from returning and reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Azithromycin for Chlamydia

Azithromycin is commonly used to treat chlamydia, a sexually transmitted infection.

Symptoms may include:

• Pain when urinating

• Discharge from the vagina, penis, or rectum

• Lower abdominal pain

• Bleeding after sex or between periods (in women)

• Testicular pain or swelling (in men)

Some people have no symptoms, but untreated chlamydia can still cause long-term damage to reproductive health. Regular sexual health screening is important if you are sexually active.

How to Take Azithromycin

Azithromycin is available as:

• Tablets

• Capsules

• Liquid (for those who find swallowing difficult)

Tablets can be taken with or without food.
Capsules should be taken on an empty stomach.

Swallow tablets or capsules whole with water.

Azithromycin Dosage (UK Guidance)

Your dose depends on the infection being treated.

Common dosing includes:

• 500mg once daily for 3 to 10 days for many infections

• Chlamydia: a single dose of 1 gram (two 500mg tablets)

Your prescriber will recommend the correct dose based on your condition and medical history.

Azithromycin Side Effects

Most people tolerate azithromycin well. Common side effects include:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Reduced appetite or taste changes

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Tiredness

These side effects usually improve on their own. Speak to a healthcare professional if they persist.

Seek medical advice urgently if you experience:

• Chest pain or a fast or irregular heartbeat

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes

• Pale urine or dark stools

• Hearing changes or severe dizziness

• Severe abdominal or back pain

• Diarrhoea containing blood or mucus

• Diarrhoea lasting longer than four days

 Call 999 immediately if you have signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the lips, tongue, or difficulty breathing.

Warnings and Precautions

Azithromycin may not be suitable for everyone. Tell your prescriber if you have:

• Liver or kidney problems

• Heart conditions or an irregular heartbeat

• Myasthenia gravis

• Diabetes

• A history of antibiotic-related diarrhoea

• Previous allergic reactions to medicines

During an online consultation, you will complete a health questionnaire. A qualified prescriber will review your answers and check your current medications, including supplements and herbal remedies, to avoid interactions.

Getting Azithromycin in the UK

Azithromycin is a prescription-only medicine in the UK.
If prescribed, it can be supplied by a UK-registered pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your home.