Description

Azithromycin Tablets are a prescription macrolide antibiotic that may be prescribed by veterinarians for dogs, cats, and other animals when an infection is caused by organisms susceptible to azithromycin. Veterinary use of human-labeled azithromycin tablets is extra-label and should be under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian.

Azithromycin has a relatively long duration of activity in tissues, which may allow veterinarians to develop dosing schedules appropriate for the individual patient and condition. The specific dose, frequency, and duration should always be determined by the prescribing veterinarian.

Uses & Benefits

• Provides veterinarian-directed antibacterial therapy
• May be prescribed for dogs and cats
• Provides activity against susceptible bacterial organisms
• Macrolide-class antibiotic
• Oral tablet formulation
• Allows individualized veterinary dosing
• May be used as part of a veterinarian-directed medication plan
• Prescription medication for use under veterinary supervision

How It Works

Azithromycin is a macrolide antibacterial medication. It works by binding to bacterial ribosomes and interfering with bacterial protein synthesis.

This action inhibits the growth of susceptible bacteria. The effectiveness of azithromycin depends on the susceptibility of the organism involved, making veterinary evaluation important when selecting an appropriate antibiotic.

Indications

Azithromycin may be prescribed by a veterinarian for dogs, cats, and other animals with infections caused by susceptible bacterial organisms.

Veterinary uses may vary by species and individual condition. Use of human-labeled azithromycin tablets in animals is extra-label and should only be under veterinary direction.

Ingredients

Active Ingredients:

Azithromycin

Tablets contain azithromycin in a form equivalent to the labeled amount of azithromycin.

Inactive Ingredients:

Inactive ingredients vary by manufacturer and may include:

• Croscarmellose sodium / Dibasic calcium phosphate / Hypromellose / Magnesium stearate / Pregelatinized starch / Sodium lauryl sulfate / Titanium dioxide / Polyethylene glycol

Refer to the manufacturer label for complete inactive ingredient information.

Directions

Administer orally as prescribed by your veterinarian.

Azithromycin tablets may generally be administered with or without food. If gastrointestinal upset occurs when given on an empty stomach, ask your veterinarian whether administration with food is appropriate.

Complete the entire course of medication prescribed by your veterinarian, even if your pet appears to be feeling better, unless your veterinarian directs you otherwise.

Administer exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian. Follow all dosing and administration instructions provided on the prescription label and by your veterinarian. Do not adjust the dose, frequency, or duration of administration unless directed by your veterinarian.

Dosage and frequency are determined by the prescribing veterinarian based on the animal's species, body weight, condition, medical history, and response to therapy.

Cautions

• Federal law restricts this medication to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian when prescribed for animals.
• Use only for the animal for which it was prescribed.
• Veterinary use of human-labeled azithromycin is extra-label.
• Do not change the dose or discontinue the medication without veterinary direction.
• Tell your veterinarian about all medications and supplements your pet is receiving.
• Use cautiously in animals with liver disease or certain heart conditions.
• Azithromycin has the potential to affect cardiac electrical activity and should be used cautiously in patients with known risk factors for abnormal heart rhythms.
• Aluminum- or magnesium-containing antacids may interact with oral azithromycin and should not be administered at the same time unless directed by a veterinarian.
• Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Possible Side Effects

Possible side effects may include:

• Vomiting / Diarrhea / Decreased appetite / Abdominal discomfort

Less commonly, more significant reactions may occur, including allergic reactions, liver-related effects, or changes in heart rhythm.

Contact your veterinarian if side effects are persistent, severe, or concerning.

Precautions

Use azithromycin only under veterinary supervision.

Tell your veterinarian about your pet's complete medical history and all prescription medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements being administered.

Appropriate antibiotic selection is important. Your veterinarian may recommend diagnostic testing when appropriate to help determine whether azithromycin is suitable for the individual patient.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature, generally 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), with permitted excursions from 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C). Keep tablets in a tightly closed container and protect from excessive moisture.

Disposal

Dispose of unused or expired medication according to applicable local requirements. Do not give leftover medication to another animal.