Azithromycin
“This page provides important general information for pet owners whose animals have been prescribed Azithromycin in Perth during a consultation by Dr Noor.”
Key Information on Azithromycin
- Azithromycin is a germ-fighting medicine used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria and some parasites.
- You can give it either on an empty stomach or with a meal. Giving it with food can reduce stomach upset.
- The most often seen problems are throwing up, loose stools, or eating less.
- Give every dose for the full time prescribed, even if your animal seems improved.
Note: This handout is meant to address common questions. It does not include every detail about this medicine and does not replace guidance from your veterinary care team.
Description
- This medicine belongs to the macrolide group of antibiotics.
- It comes as tablets and as a liquid you give by mouth.
Other common names
Zithromax, Zmax
Uses
This medicine is not specifically approved for animals, but it is approved for people. Your veterinarian may choose to prescribe it in a way not listed on the label for:
- Treating certain infections caused by bacteria and parasites in dogs, cats, and other animals.
Before this medication is given
No medicine is completely risk-free for every patient. Talk with your veterinarian about:
- Any other medicines or supplements your animal is currently receiving.
- Any health problems your animal has now or has had before.
- Any unwanted reactions your animal has had to medicines in the past.
- The possible risks of using this medicine if your animal is pregnant or nursing.
Warnings for animals
Do not use:
- In animals that have an allergy to azithromycin or to other macrolide antibiotics (for example, erythromycin).
Use with caution in:
- Animals that have liver problems.
- Animals that have heart problems.
- Small mammals such as rabbits and guinea pigs.
Some animal sports or competitions do not allow certain medicines. If your animal competes, check the rules while your animal is taking this medicine.
Warnings for humans
- Clean your hands after you handle any medicine.
- If you are allergic to macrolide antibiotics, wear gloves or do not handle this medicine.
How do I give this medication?
Give this medicine exactly the way your veterinarian directed. Follow the directions on the prescription label.
- It may be given with food or without food. Food may help reduce stomach upset.
- If you are using the liquid form, shake it well each time before giving a dose.
- For liquids, use an oral dosing syringe, a medicine cup, or a dosing spoon to measure. Do not use kitchen spoons or other household measuring tools.
Side effects
Common – contact your veterinarian if these problems are strong, keep happening, or get worse over time:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
Severe – stop giving the medicine and contact your veterinarian right away if you notice any of the following:
- Fever, skin rashes, or trouble breathing. These can be signs of an allergic reaction to the medicine.
How will I know it’s working?
Your animal should begin to feel better within 1 to 2 days.
If your animal’s symptoms get worse or do not get better, contact your veterinary clinic.
How long will the medication effects last?
After the final dose, this medicine usually stops having an effect within 1 to 2 days. This depends on the type of animal and what is being treated.
If your animal’s liver does not work as well, the effects may continue longer.
How long do I give it for?
The length of treatment can vary. Keep giving it for the full time your veterinarian instructed, even if your animal seems better.
Overdose
If you see an overdose happen or think one may have happened, contact your veterinarian.
If possible, have the container or label available.
Missed dose
In most situations, if you forget a dose:
- Give the dose as soon as you remember, and then go back to the usual schedule.
If it is almost time for the next dose:
- Do not give the missed dose.
- Give the next dose at the regular time.
- Continue with the normal schedule.
If you are not sure what to do, call your veterinary clinic. Do not give two doses at once and do not give extra doses.
Storage
- Keep tablets and liquid in the original container at room temperature.
- Store where children and animals cannot reach it.
Disposal
- Throw away mixed liquid medicine 10 days after you add water to it.
Do not put this medicine into the toilet or pour it into a sink. Ways to get rid of unused or expired medicine include:
- Drug take-back locations: This is the best option when available. To find a nearby site, contact local law enforcement or your local waste management office.
- At-home disposal: Combine the medicine with used coffee grounds or kitty litter, place the mixture into a sealed plastic bag, and put it in the household trash.
Do not keep leftover medicine for later use and do not give it to anyone else.
Questions?
Speak with your veterinarian.
“Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided as general educational material only. Every animal’s health situation is unique, and treatment decisions must be based on a full veterinary assessment. Always follow the specific instructions given during your consultation, and contact the prescribing veterinarian if you have any concerns.”