NZ Formulary

Azithromycin (for chlamydia)

a-zith-roe-my-sin

What does it do?

Azithromycin is used to treat genital infections due to chlamydia.

How should you take it?

Take 2 azithromycin 500 mg tablets as directed with a glass of water. It is important to take both the tablets together at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Most people do not notice any side effects when taking the single 1 gram dose.

Side EffectsRecommended action

Fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting

Symptoms of liver problems including: yellow skin or eyes, itching, dark urine, pale bowel motions, abdominal pain

Tell your doctor immediately

Severe or persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain

Hearing loss, ringing in the ears

Small white sores in mouth, furry tongue (oral thrush)

Vaginal itch or discharge (vaginal thrush)

Tell your doctor

Diarrhoea, stomach upset

Changes in taste

Headache

Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

  • Tell your doctor if you have heart or liver problems.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
  • Your doctor may do a heart test (ECG) before you start and while you are taking azithromycin.
  • Your recent sexual partners will also need treatment.