Early one morning, 74-year-old Grandma Li arrived at the community hospital with a persistent cough. Doctors prescribe some common medications, including azithromycin, a well-known antibiotic. Grandma Li started taking it as prescribed, but within a few days, she experienced physical discomfort, including nausea and fatigue. Why is that? Is there something wrong with azithromycin? Or is Grandma Li taking it in the wrong way?
Azithromycin, a name we may seem familiar with, is actually a double-edged sword. It is effective in treating a wide range of bacterial infections, but it can come with unexpected side effects and health risks if used incorrectly. It's not just Grandma Li's problem, it's probably a dilemma that each of us may face.
Azithromycin Introduction: More than just a drug
Azithromycin, a well-known antibiotic, belongs to the macrolide class. Its main mechanism of action is to stop bacterial growth by interfering with protein synthesis within bacterial cells. The drug is unique in that it has a broad antimicrobial spectrum and a long half-life, meaning that not only can it act on a wide range of bacteria, but its effects can last for a longer period of time. Azithromycin is usually given less frequently and for a shorter duration than other antibiotics, which is significantly helpful in maintaining patient compliance.
Indications for azithromycin: not a panacea
Although azithromycin is widely used, it is not suitable for all types of infections. It is mainly used to treat certain bacterial infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia, tonsillitis, skin infections, and certain sexually transmitted diseases. However, it is important to note that azithromycin is not effective against viral infections such as viral influenza or flu because antibiotics do not kill the virus.
In addition, azithromycin is not suitable for all types of bacterial infections. Some bacteria are resistant to azithromycin, which means the drug may not be effective in these situations. For this reason, before starting azithromycin, doctors usually base its use on a specific medical condition and type of pathogen. For example, other types of antibiotics may be needed for infections caused by some resistant strains.
Four precautions for taking azithromycin
1. Precise dosing: avoid overdose and underdose
Principles of dose adjustment: The dose of azithromycin should be adjusted according to the specific condition and body weight. Overdose may lead to increased adverse effects, while underdose may lead to treatment failure.
Adherence to medical orders: Emphasis on following the doctor's guidance and not self-adjusting the dose.
2. Eating and drinking interactions: Know the contraindications
Dietary caution: Caution to avoid certain foods that may cause adverse reactions, such as high-calcium foods, while taking azithromycin, as they may affect the absorption of the drug.
3. Drug Interactions: Ensuring Safety
Potential interactions: Remind patients to tell their doctor about other medications they are taking when using azithromycin, as some drugs may interact with azithromycin, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
4. Special Populations: Special Attention
Older adults and those with chronic conditions: for older adults or patients with chronic health conditions, azithromycin needs to be used with more caution and may need to adjust the dose or monitor for side effects.
Potential side effects of azithromycin and what to do about it
1. Common side effects: Recognize and deal with them
Digestive reactions: such as nausea, vomiting, etc. It is advisable to take the medication after meals to relieve stomach upset.
Allergic reactions: mild allergies such as rashes, and in severe cases, anaphylactic shock may occur. In the event of an allergic reaction, the drug should be stopped immediately and medical help should be sought.
2. Prevention and treatment
Side effect monitoring: Communicate with your doctor regularly about drug reactions, especially when you first start using it or if you change the dose.
Acute coping: Seek immediate medical attention when serious side effects, such as severe allergies or heart problems, occur.