Overview:
Azithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as chest infections, skin infections, and sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia. It’s also used for sinus infections and some ear infections. One of its main benefits is that it stays in the body for several days, so you often only need to take it for 3 to 5 days.
How It Works:
Azithromycin stops bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow and survive. Without these proteins, bacteria can’t reproduce, and the infection gradually clears as your immune system removes them. It’s part of a group of antibiotics called macrolides, which are known for their effectiveness and short treatment courses.
Mode of Action:
After taking a dose, azithromycin binds to bacterial ribosomes (the cell’s protein factories) and blocks them from building new proteins. This prevents bacteria from multiplying, allowing the infection to fade. Because it stays active in the body for a long time, even after you finish the course, it continues working for several days.
Common Side Effects:
- Diarrhoea or stomach cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
Serious Side Effects:
- Irregular or very fast heartbeat (rare but serious)
- Severe or watery diarrhoea that lasts several days (could mean a gut infection)
- Allergic reaction (rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty)
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (liver irritation)
