Azithromycin is an antibiotic medication prescribed to treat a number of different bacterial infections, including respiratory and reproductive tract infections. This medication is a macrolide that works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria within a patient's body. Some azithromycin side effects can be uncomfortable and patients should discuss these potential treatment complications with a doctor prior to taking this medication.
Nausea or Vomiting
Nausea side effects affected approximately 3 percent of patients during clinical trials for azithromycin, Rxlist warns. Patients who develop nausea can also experience vomiting or abdominal pain or discomfort. These stomach upset symptoms can contribute to a temporary loss of appetite in treated patients. Patients can avoid developing severe upset stomach symptoms by ensuring that azithromycin is not taken on an empty stomach.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is one of the most common side effects of azithromycin and causes frequent bowel movement urges that yield loose stools. Recurrent bouts of diarrhea can be uncomfortable and may exacerbate other upset stomach side effects, such as abdominal pain or nausea. Patients who notice blood within the stools should seek prompt medical care as this side effect can indicate a severe reaction to azithromycin, Drugs.com advises.
Headache
Certain patients can experience headache pain following treatment with azithromycin. Painful headache symptoms are typically mild and can be controlled through the use of an over-the-counter pain medication. Patients who develop headache side effects in conjunction with vision problems should contact a physician for further evaluation and care.
Skin Rash
A mild skin rash can occur as a side effect of azithromycin in treated patients, MedlinePlus reports. Affected patients can develop patches of skin across the body that appear red or inflamed. A mild skin rash may appear dry or flaky and can begin to itch. A severe or persistent skin rash can be a sign of a serious reaction to azithromycin, and affected patients require immediate medical care.
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