AZITHROMYCIN

Drug name Azithromycin (Zithromax) 500mg/tab 1tab OD PO 8am Class Anti-infectives Action -Binds to the P site of 50S bacterial ribosomal subunits thereby inhibiting protein synthesis; bactericidal or bacteriostatic depending on concentration with much greater spectrum of activity than erythromycin. Indication -Treatment of infections of the respiratory tract. Contraindication Hypersensitivity to azithromycin erythromycin or to any macrolide antibiotic. Adverse Reaction -palpitations -chest pain -dizziness -headache -vertigo -somnolence -fatigue -rash -vomiting -nausea -diarrhea -dyspepsia -flatulence Nursing Responsibility -Monitor patient for super infection. -Instruct patient to take medication as prescribed even if he feels better. -Instruct patient that if hypersensitivity occurs during the medication immediately notify the physician. -Assess for signs and symptoms of infection: fever, drainage, sore throat, increased WBC count, positive specimen culture. -Assess for potential allergic reaction. -Assess possible adverse effect/toxicities; liver, AST,ALT, billirubin, alkaline phosphatase