Epocrates azithromycin

Need azithromycin dosing information quickly? Epocrates offers a reliable source. Check the application for detailed dosage recommendations based on patient age, weight, and infection type. Remember to always consult the official prescribing information for complete details and potential drug interactions.

Epocrates provides access to azithromycin’s FDA-approved labeling, including contraindications and warnings. Pay close attention to potential adverse effects, such as QT prolongation and liver dysfunction. Be aware of potential interactions with other medications, particularly those affecting the heart rhythm.

Beyond dosage and warnings, Epocrates may offer additional information, such as clinical practice guidelines and relevant research. Use this data to support informed decisions regarding treatment. However, Epocrates is a tool, not a replacement for clinical judgment. Always consider the individual patient’s medical history and overall health status.

Disclaimer: This information is intended for healthcare professionals and should not be used for self-treatment. Always refer to the official drug prescribing information and your professional judgment before making any treatment decisions. Incorrect medication use can have serious consequences.

Epocrates Azithromycin: A Detailed Guide

Epocrates provides quick access to Azithromycin’s prescribing information, including dosage, contraindications, and drug interactions. Check for allergies before prescribing.

Dosage varies widely depending on the infection being treated. Always consult the latest prescribing information within Epocrates for precise guidelines based on the patient’s age, weight, and specific condition. Commonly used dosages range from 500mg on day one, followed by 250mg daily, to a single 1g dose. Pay close attention to renal and hepatic adjustments.

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. More serious, though rare, reactions include prolonged QT interval and liver damage. Inform patients of potential side effects and instruct them to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Interactions with other medications are significant. Epocrates’ drug interaction checker flags potential problems with certain medications, particularly those affecting the QT interval or metabolized by the liver. Always review potential interactions before prescribing Azithromycin concurrently with other drugs.

Pregnancy and lactation require careful consideration. Weigh the benefits against the potential risks when prescribing to pregnant or breastfeeding women. Refer to updated guidelines within Epocrates for this specific patient population.

Remember that Epocrates is a valuable tool but doesn’t replace your clinical judgment. Always evaluate the patient’s complete medical history and current medications before making prescribing decisions. Use caution and monitor patients closely.

Proper patient education on medication usage, potential side effects, and follow-up care is paramount. Ensure patients understand their treatment plan and what to expect.

Azithromycin Indications as Listed in Epocrates

Epocrates lists Azithromycin indications across several infection types. It’s crucial to remember that this information is for reference only; always consult the full prescribing information and use your clinical judgment.

Respiratory Tract Infections

Epocrates highlights Azithromycin’s use in treating community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD), and acute bronchitis. Dosage varies depending on the specific infection and patient factors.

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

Azithromycin is indicated for treating uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI) caused by susceptible bacteria. Again, precise dosing depends on the severity and location of the infection.

Other Infections

Epocrates also includes other indications such as genital ulcer disease (chancroid) and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), but only when these infections are caused by susceptible bacteria and when used in conjunction with other appropriate therapies.

Summary Table: Key Azithromycin Indications (Epocrates)

Infection Type	Specific Indication
Respiratory	Community-acquired pneumonia, Acute bacterial exacerbations of COPD, Acute bronchitis
Skin & Soft Tissue	Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI)
Other	Genital ulcer disease (chancroid), Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) *with other therapies*

Contraindications and Warnings

Epocrates will also list contraindications and warnings associated with Azithromycin, such as potential liver toxicity, QT prolongation and interactions with other medications. Thoroughly review these details before prescribing.

Contraindications and Precautions for Azithromycin (Epocrates Data)

Avoid azithromycin if you have a known allergy to azithromycin, erythromycin, or any other macrolide antibiotic. This includes a history of allergic reactions such as angioedema or anaphylaxis.

Known Drug Interactions

• Ergot alkaloids: Concomitant use may cause ergotism. Avoid using ergot derivatives with azithromycin.
• Pimozide: The risk of QT prolongation is increased. Do not use azithromycin with pimozide.
• Cisapride: Similar to pimozide, this combination carries increased risk of QT prolongation. Avoid concurrent use.
• Triazolam: Azithromycin may increase triazolam concentrations, leading to increased sedation. Monitor patients closely.
• Theophylline: Azithromycin can increase theophylline levels, potentially leading to toxicity. Close monitoring of theophylline levels is recommended.

Use caution when prescribing azithromycin to patients with:

Precautions

1. Liver disease: Azithromycin is primarily metabolized by the liver. Reduce the dosage or consider alternative treatment options for patients with significant hepatic impairment.
2. Cardiac conditions: Azithromycin can prolong the QT interval. Exercise caution in patients with known QT prolongation or other cardiac conditions that predispose them to arrhythmias.
3. Myasthenia gravis: Azithromycin may worsen muscle weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis.
4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: While generally considered safe, weigh the benefits against potential risks. Consult current prescribing information for specific guidelines.
5. Renal impairment: Dosage adjustment may be needed for patients with significant renal dysfunction. Refer to the prescribing information for specific recommendations.

Always consult the current Epocrates data and the latest prescribing information for the most up-to-date recommendations on contraindications and precautions for azithromycin before making prescribing decisions. Patient-specific factors should be carefully considered.

Common Side Effects of Azithromycin According to Epocrates

Epocrates data indicates that the most frequently reported side effects of azithromycin are gastrointestinal issues. These include diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. The severity varies, but these symptoms usually resolve after treatment ends.

Gastrointestinal Upsets

Diarrhea is a common complaint. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. If diarrhea is severe or persistent, contact your doctor. Nausea is another frequent side effect; taking azithromycin with food may help. Abdominal pain can also occur; again, food may lessen this.

Other Reported Side Effects

Less common, but still reported on Epocrates, are allergic reactions like rash or itching. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of your face, lips, or tongue. Other potential side effects include headache, vomiting, and vaginitis. These are generally mild.

Important Note:

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any medication, including azithromycin, and report any concerning side effects immediately.

Drug Interactions Reported in Epocrates for Azithromycin

Epocrates data reveals several potential drug interactions with azithromycin. Concurrent use with ergot alkaloids (like ergotamine or dihydroergotamine) may cause ergotism, characterized by peripheral vasoconstriction. Monitor patients closely for symptoms such as extremity pain, coldness, or paresthesia.

Cardiovascular Medications

Azithromycin prolongs the QT interval in some individuals. Therefore, co-administration with other drugs known to prolong the QT interval (e.g., certain antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics) increases the risk of torsades de pointes. Careful monitoring of ECG and patient symptoms is recommended. Consider alternative antibiotics if possible.

Statins

Reports suggest a possible increased risk of myopathy when azithromycin is taken with statins, especially high-potency statins like simvastatin or lovastatin. Patients should be informed of this risk, and close monitoring for muscle pain or weakness is advised. Lowering the statin dose might be considered.

Anticoagulants

Azithromycin may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Regular monitoring of INR levels is crucial during concomitant use. Dosage adjustment of warfarin might be necessary.

Digoxin

Azithromycin can elevate digoxin serum levels. Close monitoring of digoxin levels and signs of digoxin toxicity (e.g., nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances) are needed. Digoxin dosage reduction might be required.

Dosage and Administration Guidelines from Epocrates for Azithromycin

Epocrates recommends azithromycin dosages based on the infection being treated. Always consult the most current Epocrates data for the most up-to-date information.

For community-acquired pneumonia in adults, a common regimen is 500 mg orally on day 1, followed by 250 mg daily for four more days. Children’s dosages vary significantly depending on weight and infection; refer to pediatric guidelines within Epocrates.

In treating uncomplicated chlamydia infections, the typical adult dose is a single 1 gram oral dose. For gonorrhea, Epocrates may recommend azithromycin in conjunction with another antibiotic; never rely solely on azithromycin for gonorrhea.

For bacterial skin infections, dosages usually range from 500 mg to 1 gram orally daily, depending on the severity and specific bacteria involved. The duration of treatment varies. Epocrates provides specific guidance on this.

Always administer azithromycin orally, with or without food. Consider potential drug interactions listed in Epocrates before prescribing.

Remember, this information is for general guidance only. Epocrates provides detailed prescribing information, including contraindications, precautions, and potential adverse effects. Always consult Epocrates directly before administering azithromycin to a patient. Never rely solely on this summary.

Important Considerations and Warnings from Epocrates Regarding Azithromycin

Epocrates highlights QT prolongation as a significant risk with azithromycin. Monitor patients with known cardiac conditions, especially those taking other QT-prolonging medications.

Liver damage is a potential side effect. Advise patients to report jaundice, dark urine, or unusual fatigue immediately. Use caution in patients with pre-existing liver disease.

Azithromycin can cause serious allergic reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Patients should be instructed to seek immediate medical attention if they experience skin rash, blistering, or peeling.

Avoid concurrent use with drugs metabolized by CYP3A4, such as ergot alkaloids and pimozide, due to potential drug interactions. Consult drug interaction databases for a comprehensive list.

Superinfection, particularly with *C. difficile*, is a risk. Monitor patients for symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. Treat accordingly.

Patients with myasthenia gravis should use azithromycin with caution due to potential exacerbation of muscle weakness.

Always review the complete prescribing information before administering azithromycin. Patient education regarding potential adverse effects is paramount.