Azithromycin Tablets 250mg – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Precautions | AZIFON-250

Product Details

Azithromycin Tablets 250mg, also known as Azifon-250 tablets, is a widely used broad-spectrum macrolide antibiotic that effectively treats bacterial infections, particularly those affecting the respiratory system, skin, soft tissues, and genitourinary tract. They are commonly prescribed for conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis, and certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Azithromycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, preventing bacterial growth and multiplication. It is different from other antibiotics in that it has a long half-life and allows for shorter treatment durations, typically 3 to 5 days.

This guide provides detailed information on Azithromycin Tablets 250mg, including uses, dosage, side effects, precautions, and storage guidelines.

AZIFON-250 | Azithromycin Tablets IP 250mg
Azithromycin Tablets 250mg – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Precautions | AZIFON-250

Azithromycin is used to treat a wide range of bacterial disorders, including those that affect the respiratory system, skin, ear, and eye, as well as sexually transmitted diseases.

What is Azithromycin 250mg Used For?

Azithromycin Tablets 250mg (Azifon-250 tablet) are prescribed for the treatment of the following bacterial infections:

1. Respiratory Infections[1]

  • Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) – Lung infection caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae.
  • Bronchitis – Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, causing persistent cough and mucus production.
  • Tonsillitis and Pharyngitis – Throat infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.
  • Sinusitis – Bacterial infection causing nasal congestion, headache, and facial pain.

2. Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

  • Cellulitis – Bacterial infection causing redness, swelling, and pain in the skin.
  • Impetigo – A contagious bacterial skin infection causing sores and blisters.
  • Erysipelas – A severe skin infection affecting the upper layers of the skin, often caused by Streptococcus species.

3. Ear and Eye Infections

  • Acute Otitis Media – Middle ear infection causing pain, fever, and hearing difficulty, commonly seen in children.
  • Bacterial Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) – Inflammation of the conjunctiva due to bacterial infection.
  • Trachoma – A serious eye infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, which can lead to blindness if untreated. Azithromycin was found effective in this disease.

4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

  • Chlamydia – A common STI caused by Chlamydia trachomatis; usually treated with a single 1g dose of azithromycin.
  • Gonorrhea – Caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae; azithromycin is often used in combination with ceftriaxone for treatment.

5. Gastrointestinal Infections

  • Traveler’s Diarrhea – Azithromycin is sometimes prescribed for bacterial infections causing severe diarrhea. However, in the starting phase, other antibiotics are preferred over azithromycin.
  • Helicobacter pylori Infection – Used in combination therapy for treating H. pylori, which causes stomach ulcers and painful sores.

6. Other Infections

  • Typhoid Fever – A serious infection caused by Salmonella typhi bacteria.
  • Whooping Cough (Pertussis) – Caused by Bordetella pertussis where azithromycin reduces transmission.

Dosage and Administration of Azithromycin 250mg Tablets[2]

The dosage of Azithromycin depends on the type and severity of the infection that happened to an individual:

ConditionRecommended DosageCourse Duration
Respiratory Infections500mg on Day 1, followed by 250mg once daily3–5 days
Skin Infections500mg on Day 1, then 250mg daily3–5 days
Ear Infections10mg/kg once daily3 days
Chlamydia1g (1000mg) as a single doseOne-time
Gonorrhea1g single dose (with ceftriaxone)One-time
Typhoid Fever500mg daily5–7 days

Method of taking Azithromycin 250mg Tablets

  • Take with or without food, but preferably 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
  • Do not skip doses, and complete the prescribed course even if symptoms improve early.

Mechanism of Action[3]

Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that works by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, it blocks protein synthesis and stops bacterial growth. This bacteriostatic effect prevents the spread of infection further.

Unlike other antibiotics, azithromycin has a long half-life, allowing for once-daily dosing and shorter treatment duration.

Side Effects of Azithromycin Tablets 250mg[1]

Most people tolerate azithromycin well, but some may experience mild to moderate side effects.

Common Side Effects:

  • Gastrointestinal Issues – Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain.
  • Headache and Dizziness – Temporary, usually mild.
  • Loss of Appetite – Some patients may experience changes in taste perception.

Serious Side Effects (Rare):

  • Allergic Reactions – Rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or breathing difficulties.
  • Liver Problems – Yellowing of skin/eyes (jaundice), dark urine, persistent nausea.
  • Heart IssuesQT prolongation, which can cause irregular heartbeats.
  • Severe Diarrhea (C. difficile Infection) – Prolonged diarrhea with blood/mucus.

Precautions and Warnings

Who Should Avoid Azithromycin(Azifon-250)?

  • People with known allergies to azithromycin, erythromycin, clarithromycin, or other macrolides drugs.
  • Patients with severe liver disease or jaundice caused by azithromycin or other reason.
  • Individuals with heart conditions like QT prolongation should use azithromycin under the guidance of a physician.

Drug Interactions of Azithromycin tablets 250mg

Azithromycin tablets[2] may interact with several medications:

DrugEffect
Antacids (containing aluminum/magnesium)Reduce azithromycin absorption
Warfarin (blood thinner)May increase bleeding risk
Digoxin (for heart conditions)May raise digoxin levels
Nelfinavir (HIV medication)Increases azithromycin concentration
Statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs)Risk of muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis)

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Women

  • Azithromycin(Azifon-250) is generally safe during pregnancy, classified as Category B (no proven risk in humans), however, do not self-medicate and consult your gynecologist while consuming Azithromycin Tablets 250mg or any other dose.
  • It is excreted in breast milk—consult a doctor if breastfeeding. Always consult a doctor if you are breastfeeding a baby.

Comparison with Other Popular Antibiotics

Antibiotic NameClassSpectrum of actionCommon UseDosing Frequency
AzithromycinMacrolideBroad-spectrumRespiratory, skin, STIsOnce daily
AmoxicillinPenicillinNarrow-spectrumRespiratory, ENT infections2-3 times daily
CiprofloxacinFluoroquinoloneBroad-spectrumUTIs, GI infectionsTwice daily
DoxycyclineTetracyclineBroad-spectrumAcne, Lyme disease, STIsRespiratory, and ENT infections

Storage and Handling

  • Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the package.

SHORT DESCRIPTION

  • Brand Name: AZIFON-250
  • Dosage Form: Tablets
  • Composition: Azithromycin 250 mg.+Lactic acid bacillus 2.5 million spores
  • Packing: 10×6 Blister
  • MRP: 71.34 PER 6 TABLETS

ALSO AVAILABLE:

AZIFON-500 (Azithromycin 500mg tablets)

CEFFON-200 (Cefixime 200mg +  Lactic acid bacillus 60 million spores)

FOLFLOX-OZ: Ornidazole and Ofloxacin Tablet 

FAQ

How long does it take for Azithromycin Tablet 250mg to work?

Most patients feel improvement within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment, but it is important to complete the full course.

Can Azithromycin be used for COVID-19?

Azithromycin was studied for COVID-19 treatment, but it is not recommended due to lack of proven benefit.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Azithromycin?

Alcohol does not directly interact with azithromycin, but it can increase side effects like nausea and stomach upset. Avoid alcohol during treatment or ask your doctor about it.

Is Azithromycin safe for children?

Yes, azithromycin is prescribed for children, but dosage changes to suspension, and dose depends on weight and condition.

Can I take Azithromycin for a cold or flu?

No, azithromycin only works against bacterial infections, not viral infections like the common cold or flu. Avoid taking such antibiotics without the prescription of a medical practitioner.

Conclusion

Azithromycin Tablets 250mg(Azifon-250) is a powerful and versatile antibiotic for treating a wide range of bacterial infections. Their once-daily dose has high efficacy, and the broad-spectrum activity of this drug makes it a preferred choice for respiratory, skin, and STI treatments.

By following the proper dosage guidelines of a doctor, with due precautions, and completing the full course, patients can achieve optimal treatment outcomes.

If you are considering Azithromycin Tablets 250mg for an infection, consult your doctor to ensure it is the right choice for you.

Disclaimer:

Disclaimer: All the information and articles available on this site are for educational purposes only. The information given here should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or disease without expert advice. The advice of a qualified medical practitioner should always be sought for medical examination and treatment.

References:

  1. Azithromycin-[MedlinePlus(.gov)]
  2. Azithromycin (Rx)-[Medspace(.com)]
  3. Azithromycin-[Go.DrugbankOnline(.com)]

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