What is the most important information I should know about Zithromax? • Do not use Zithromax if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine or similar drugs such as erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, E.E.S.), clarithromycin (Biaxin), or other macrolide antibiotics. • There are many other medicines that can interact with Zithromax. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you. • Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Zithromax will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. • Take Zithromax on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. • Do not take Zithromax at the same time as taking an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium. This includes Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others. These antacids can make Zithromax less effective when taken at the same time. What is Zithromax? • Zithromax is in a group of drugs called macrolide antibiotics. Zithromax fights bacteria in the body. • Zithromax is used to treat many different types of infections caused by bacteria, such as respiratory infections, skin infections, ear infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. • Zithromax may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide. What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Zithromax? • Do not use Zithromax if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine or similar drugs such as erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, E.E.S.), clarithromycin (Biaxin), or other macrolide antibiotics. • Before taking Zithromax, tell your doctor if you have: · liver disease; · kidney disease; · a heart rhythm disorder; or · a history of Long QT syndrome. • If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use Zithromax, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment. • FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. • It is not known whether Zithromax passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not take this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. How should I take Zithromax? • Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. The dose and length of treatment with Zithromax may not be the same for every type of infection. • Take each tablet or capsule with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. • To use the oral suspension single dose packet: Open the packet and pour the medicine into 2 ounces of water. Stir this mixture and drink all of it right away. To make sure you get the entire dose, add a little more water to the same glass, swirl gently and drink right away. • Zithromax capsules must be taken on an empty stomach. Take the capsule at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating a meal • Zithromax tablets or powder oral suspension may be taken with or without food. Take the tablet or oral suspension with food if the medicine upsets your stomach. • Do not take Zithromax at the same time as taking an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium. This includes Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others. These antacids can make Zithromax less effective when taken at the same time. • Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. • Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Zithromax will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. • It is important to take Zithromax regularly to get the most benefit. • Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Throw away any unused liquid medicine after 10 days.