Azithromycin
Key facts
- Classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK
- Treatment category: General
- Price (if prescribed): from £10.49
- Typical supply: 3 days
- Availability: Available following an online consultation
- Prescriber review: every order is assessed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist
Azithromycin prices by dose and pack size
| Strength | Pack size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 500mg | 4 pack | £10.49 |
Azithromycin – Effective Antibiotic for Treating Bacterial Infections
Azithromycin is a powerful antibiotic widely used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhoea
- Urethritis in men
- Ureaplasma infections
- Mycoplasma genitalium (when combined with Doxycycline)
Known for its effectiveness, Azithromycin works by stopping the growth of bacteria. It stays in the body longer than other antibiotics, allowing for shorter treatment courses without compromising efficacy.
Azithromycin is often recommended as a second-line treatment when Doxycycline is not suitable or fails to work.
How Does Azithromycin Work?
Azithromycin is part of the macrolide antibiotic family. It targets bacterial growth by preventing the production of essential proteins that bacteria need to multiply. By doing so, it halts the spread of the infection, ultimately killing the bacteria.
Benefits of Azithromycin
Key Advantages of Azithromycin
- Shorter treatment courses: Its long-lasting effects mean fewer doses are required.
- Highly effective: Treats bacterial infections quickly and efficiently.
- Versatile: Suitable for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), respiratory infections, and more.
How to Take Azithromycin
Azithromycin is available as a 500mg tablet at Medihealth Direct.
General Instructions:
- Take each tablet with half a glass of water.
- You can take it with or without food.
- Follow your healthcare professional‘s instructions for dosage and duration.
- Complete the entire course, even if symptoms improve, to prevent antibiotic resistance.
Missed Dose:
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
- If it’s near the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
Azithromycin and Doxycycline for Mycoplasma Genitalium
To treat mycoplasma genitalium, you’ll need to take both Azithromycin and Doxycycline:
- Start with a 7-day course of Doxycycline.
- Follow with a 3-day course of Azithromycin.
- Take both medications with water, waiting at least 12 hours between doses.
This combination is the most effective first-line treatment for this condition.
Possible Side Effects of Azithromycin
While most people tolerate Azithromycin well, some may experience side effects.
Common Side Effects:
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Stomach upset or pain
- Headaches
- Insomnia
Rare Side Effects:
- Skin rash or allergic reactions
- Swelling of the face, throat, or mouth
- Changes in sight, hearing, or taste
What to Do:
- Stop taking Azithromycin and consult a healthcare professional if you experience severe or persistent side effects.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you notice signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing.
Precautions When Taking Azithromycin
To ensure safety and effectiveness, take the following precautions:
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol may increase side effects like dizziness or stomach upset.
Existing Medical Conditions
Consult your healthcare professional if you have:
- Severe liver or kidney problems
- Heart issues, including irregular heartbeats
- Low levels of potassium or magnesium
- Muscle weakness or neurological conditions
Drug Interactions
Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking:
- Antacids (e.g., for heartburn)
- Statins (cholesterol-lowering medications)
- Blood-thinning medications
- Migraine medications
- Heart medications
- Treatments for HIV or organ transplants
Can You Buy Azithromycin Online?
Yes, Azithromycin is available for purchase online at Medihealth Direct.
How It Works:
- Complete a quick online consultation reviewed by a registered UK healthcare professional.
- Once approved, your order will be discreetly packaged and shipped.
- Enjoy free next-day delivery for all UK orders.
Steps to Order Azithromycin Online
- Fill out an online consultation form at Medihealth Direct.
- A healthcare professional reviews your medical history and approves the prescription.
- Place your order and receive it with free next-day delivery.
FAQs About Azithromycin
How long does Azithromycin take to work for chlamydia?
Azithromycin starts working within a few days, but it may take up to a week for the infection to clear.
Can you drink alcohol while taking Azithromycin?
It is best to avoid alcohol to minimise side effects like dizziness and stomach upset.
How is Azithromycin used for COPD?
Azithromycin can reduce inflammation and bacterial infections in the lungs, helping prevent COPD flare-ups.
Can Azithromycin treat acne?
Yes, it is effective for acne in certain cases. Consult your healthcare professional for guidance.
Can pregnant women take Azithromycin?
Azithromycin is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Speak to your healthcare professional if you are pregnant and require treatment.
Is Azithromycin bactericidal or bacteriostatic?
Azithromycin is bacteriostatic, meaning it prevents bacteria from growing and multiplying.
How does the online consultation for Azithromycin work?
- Complete a confidential online health questionnaire.
- A GPhC-registered pharmacist reviews your answers and confirms whether the treatment is clinically appropriate.
- If approved, your medication is dispensed by the pharmacy and delivered in discreet packaging by tracked UK delivery.
See how the service works or browse all treatments.