Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Zithromax as follows:
- Check with your doctor regarding safety upon receiving any live vaccinations, as Zithromax by eliminating natural bacterial flora, could lower the body’s resistance. Live vaccinations could turn virulent in such individuals, precipitating new infections.
- OTC antacids containing aluminum and magnesium can reduce the absorption of Zithromax, thereby, compromising the therapeutic effects of the antibiotic. Space Zithromax out by at least 2 hours from these products to avoid this complication. Discuss with your doctor regarding other medications you take regularly and any possible interactions they can have with Zithromax.
- Discuss with your physician regarding your history of biliary stasis and obstruction, if any, as Zithromax is mainly eliminated in the bile. Biliary stasis could result in maintenance of the drug in the body for longer duration, thus leading to toxicity.
- Close watch for signs and symptoms of arrhythmias must be maintained in individuals with history of cardiac arrhythmias, as Zithromax has the potential to exacerbate any underlying arrhythmias. Compliance with blood work ordered to monitor serum potassium and magnesium ions is mandatory.
