Zithromax (azithromycin)

What is Zithromax?

Azithromycin is sold under the brand name Zithromax. Azithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat a number of infections caused by bacteria, included the sexually transmitted infection Chlamydia. It can also be used to treat Gonorrhoea but this would not be the front line choice for this particular infection. Azithromycin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, meaning that it is prescribed as treatment for a wide range of infections.

It is sometimes sold under its generic name, azithromycin, and is also available in the brand names Clamelle and Zithromax.

Can I buy Zithromax online?

You should only take Zithromax if it has been prescribed to you. If you have tested positive for a sexually transmitted infection but do not have access to treatment, please apply for our free consultation.

How does Zithromax (azithromycin) work?

Azithromycin works by blocking the actions of certain proteins that bacteria need to thrive. Without the proteins, the bacteria are prevented from growing, replicating and multiplying. With the spread of the infection curbed, the remaining bacteria are killed off by the body's immune system or die of their own accord.

How is Azithromycin used to treat Chlamydia?

If you are prescribed Zithromax (azithromycin) to treat Chlamydia, then it is usually given in a single dose of four capsules. Although the medication will start working straight away, it will take 7 days to clear the Chlamydia infection so you must not have unprotected sex in this period.

Can I get my partner treated with Zithromax?

If you have tested positive for an STD/STI and you have been prescribed Azithromycin then you need to make sure that your partner also gets treated, otherwise you risk passing the infection back and forth. Once you've both been treated, you should avoid unprotected sex for 7 days after treatment. We recommend getting tested again around 5 weeks after the infection should have cleared up (so 6 weeks after the treatment was taken.) The reason for being retested is that some STDs/STIs have no symptoms in certain cases so it is good to ascertain that the antibiotics have worked. We recommend The STI Clinic for a fast and accurate sexual health check.

Are there any side effects of Zithromax (azithromycin)?

The most common side effects of this antibiotic are diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting or stomach pains.

Sometimes broad-spectrum antibiotics can cause the bowel to become inflamed. If you are taking this antibiotic and find that you are experiencing severe or persistent diarrhoea, then you need to see your doctor immediately.

Can everyone take Zithromax (azithromycin)?

This antibiotic should not be taken if you are allergic to the ingredients or similar antibiotics, if you have severe liver disease or if you are pregnant, unless your doctor considers it to be absolutely necessary. It is also not recommended for use during breast-feeding. You should not take Zithromax with certain antacids along with some other medications. You should make a full disclosure to your doctor to ensure that Zithromax is an appropriate medication for you.

If you or a sexual partner has tested positive for a sexually transmitted infection but you do not have access to treatment then we may be able to help. Please click on the free consultation icon to start completing your consultation form, which will be reviewed by one of our doctors.