Published at November 23, 2024
Azithromycin is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics on the market. It is widely used as a means of treating different bacterial infections, from respiratory to skin, ear, and sexually transmitted infections. It can also treat Lyme disease.
If you’ve been prescribed azithromycin, you might be curious to know how long it stays in your system. Keep reading to get the facts straight about this popular antibiotic!
What is Azithromycin?
Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that inhibits the spread of bacteria by interfering with the protein synthesis process. In essence, it stops the bacteria's ability to reproduce and grow, clearing up the infection. This makes azithromycin particularly effective against many different bacterial infections. There are generic versions of azithromycin, but the most common brand name is Zithromax, which is colloquially dubbed the ‘Z-Pak.’
Dosage
The dosage of an azithromycin course depends on the specific infection being treated and the patient's needs. Typically, azithromycin is prescribed in a short course spanning three to five days. It can be prescribed as capsules, tablets or a liquid. It can also be given as a shot at a clinic.
It’s important to discuss your health background with your doctor before starting treatment to make sure azithromycin is the best option for you.
How Long Does Azithromycin Stay in Your System?
On average, azithromycin stays active in the system for up to 15.5 days after the last dose due to its extended half-life. This means you don’t have to take the medication for a long time, but you can still receive the benefits of it in your system.
Why Is the Extended Timeline Important?
There are several reasons why it’s important to know whether azithromycin is still in your bloodstream:
Avoiding Interactions: You’ll want to make sure you don’t take other medications that interact with the azithromycin while it is in your system.
Monitoring Potential Side Effects: It’s important to be aware of what medications are present in your bloodstream in case you experience any side effects. Common side effects of a Z-Pak include:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach ache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Change in sense of taste
- Vaginitis in women
Planning Surgical Procedures: Anesthesia and surgery can be affected by the presence of medications in the body, so it’s necessary to speak to your doctor about this ahead of any planned surgeries.
Azithromycin Online Prescription: Set Up an Online Consultation with 24HRDoc
Did you know that you can get antibiotics without having to visit a clinic in-person? At 24HRDoc, arranging an online consultation with a qualified doctor couldn’t be easier. You can discuss your condition, receive expert advice, and obtain treatment quickly – all from our online platform. If needed, our doctors can prescribe antibiotics like azithromycin, which can then be filled at your local pharmacy.
FAQ’s
Can Azithromycin Treat a Urinary Tract Infection?
Azithromycin is not typically chosen as a medication for UTIs. UTIs are more commonly treated with antibiotics such as Amoxicillin (Amoxil), Doxycycline (Adoxa, Monodox), Cephalosporins (Biocef, Keflex), Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim), and Nitrofurantoin (Furadantin, Macrobid, Macrodantin).
Can You Use Azithromycin for Sinus Infection Relief?
Yes, azithromycin can be prescribed for sinus infections, but it is generally not the first choice. As sinus infections are often viral, you may not need antibiotics. If your infection is bacterial, azithromycin may be considered if you are allergic to penicillin.
Can You Use Azithromycin to Treat STIs?
Azithromycin is one of the most commonly used antibiotics to treat certain sexually transmitted infections. It is particularly effective against chlamydia, and may also be used, in combination with other antibiotics, to treat gonorrhea.
Where Can I Buy Azithromycin 500 mg?
As Azithromycin requires a prescription, you’ll need to consult with a doctor or healthcare provider who can advise on whether this medication is the correct course of action. If you’d like to set up a quick online appointment, 24HRDoc has a straightforward process of speaking with a doctor to get the necessary medication quickly.
