Physicians may prescribe the United States brand-name antibiotic drug, Zithromax Z-Pak (azithromycin) for the treatment of bacterial infections such as pneumonia, sinusitis, bronchitis, tonsillitis, ear infections and other problems. Zithromax Z-Pak retards the growth of bacteria, as well as killing it directly, the Mayo Clinic reports.
Diarrhea and Constipation
The Mayo Clinic reports that the only commonly-experienced side effect of taking Zithromax Z-Pak is loose stools and diarrhea. Diarrhea that is watery or bloody is considered a serious side effect, and requires immediate medical attention. If diarrhea appears mild, and goes away on its own in a day or two, it classifies as a non-serious side effect, according to Drugs.com. Mild constipation also may occur during the start of Zithromax Z-Pak use.
Nausea and Vomiting
The Zithromax Z-Pak may cause some difficulties in the stomach, but these too should appear mild. Stomach pain or stomach upset may occur, as well as vomiting, the National Institutes of Health reports. These kinds of side effects, while common and non-serious, often occur when antibiotics or other medications are first introduced into the body, and generally disappear on their own in a few days.
Insomnia and Nervousness
Using azithromycin to treat bacterial infections can cause initial problems such as insomnia. Trouble sleeping generally happens only at the start of antibiotic treatment, as does a sense of unexplained nervousness, Drugs.com reports. Conversely, the Zithromax Z-Pak may cause tiredness in some users.
Vaginal Problems
Although categorized as non-serious, women may experience vaginal problems when they first use the Zithromax Z-Pak, Drugs.com states. A discharge from the vagina may occur as well as vaginal itching.
Rash
Azithromycin also may cause a rash on the skin at the outset, which fades within a day or two. The person using the drug may find areas of skin feel itchy, whether an actual rash occurs or not, Drugs.com states.
Hearing Side Effects
The sense of hearing may be diminished, or otherwise altered, when the Zithromax Z-Pak begins to take effect. The person also may hear a noise such as ringing in the ears. These non-serious side effects, too, should disappear without medical aid.
Taste and Smell Side Effects
Drugs.com reports that the Zithromax Z-Pak may cause temporary reductions in the senses of smell and taste at the start of its use. These, too, should end within a few days.
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