Azithromycin formulated Azifast 500 mg is a macrolide antibiotic. It can be used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Unlike penicillin’s, it works well against atypical bacteria, i.e., Mycoplasma and Chlamydia. It may work by blocking protein synthesis, bacteriostatic at normal doses followed by tissue penetration, it may keeps working for days after last dose because it stays in tissues long.
 Key Features
| About Azifast 500 mg |
|---|
| Drug Class: Antibacterial |
| Subclass: Macrolide antibiotic |
| Product Details | |
|---|---|
| Composition | Active ingredients: AzithromycinInactive ingredients:
|
| Packaging Type | Blister Pack |
| Pack Size | 6*5 |
| Dosage | 500 mg |
| Therapeutic class | Systemic antibacterial agent |
| Action Class | Protein synthesis inhibitor |
| Chemical class | Azalide |
| Manufacturer | IPCA Laboratories limited |
| Shelf Life | 2-3 years from the date of manufacturing |
| Usages | Treats various bacterial infections (e.g., Bronchitis, pneumoniae, sinusitis, and strep throat) |
| Country of Origin | India |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. |
How does Azifast 500 mg work?
- Azithromycin containing Azifast 500 mg may block protein synthesis just by binding to 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, stopping them from making essential proteins.
- Bacteriostatic at normal doses, it may stop bacterial growth so your immune system can clear the infections.
- High tissue penetration, it concentrates inside cells and infection sites 10-100x higher than in blood.
- It may keep working for days after last dose as it stays in tissues long.
Usage
It is used in dealing with infections like:
- Respiratory tract infections i.e., Pharyngitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis, and bronchitis.
- ENT infections: Otitis media.
- Skin and soft tissue infections i.e., Cellulitis, impetigo, and erysipelas.
- STIs: Chlamydia trachomatis, chancroid.
- Other infections that may include, Typhoid fever, diarrhea, H. pylori regimens.
Dosage
- It can be taken 1 hour before and 2 hours after food for best absorption.
- It can be taken with food to avoid any stomach upset.
Side effects
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Vaginal changes
- Taste changes
Interactions
- It may interact with antacids with AI/Mg, if taken 1 hr before and 2 hrs after they may reduce absorption.
- The drug like QT-prolonging drug i.e., Amiodarone, quinidine, antipsychotics may increase the risk of arrhythmia.
- Warfarin, may increase the bleeding risk, monitor INR.
- Digoxin, colchicine, may increase the levels and also may increase the toxicity risk.
- Ergotamine interaction may show adverse effects as it may increase the risk of ergotism.
Pharmacokinetics
- It can absorb 37% bioavailability, food may reduce rate but not extent. It reaches peak blood level in just 2-3 hours.
- Metabolism is followed by minimal liver metabolism.
- Half life is about 68 hrs due to tissue release.
- It is mainly excreted through feces.
Precautions
- If you are prior with heart conditions, or QT prolongation, low K/Mg then it should be avoided.
- In the case of liver disease, if symptoms of hepatitis get developed then just stop using it.
- In the condition of Myasthenia gravis, can worsen muscle.
- Do not use if you are allergic to azithromycin, erythromycin, or other macrolides.
- It should be avoided in the case of pregnancy and breast feeding.
Conclusion
Azithromycin formulated Azifast 500 mg is a best and an effective macrolide antibiotic. It can be used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Unlike penicillin’s, it works well against atypical bacteria, i.e., Mycoplasma and Chlamydia. It may work by blocking protein synthesis, bacteriostatic at normal doses followed by tissue penetration, it may keep working for days after last dose because it stays in tissues long. It may show some effects that may can vary so need to consult a healthcare provider prior taking any such medications.
Alexander –
This tablet worked well for my infection. I felt relief quickly after starting it.