WAZIT (Azithromycin) Tablets USP: A Comprehensive Guide

Qualitative and Quantitative Composition

WAZIT (Azithromycin) Tablets USP are available in two
formulations, containing either 250mg or 500mg of the active ingredient
Azithromycin dihydrate, equivalent to Azithromycin USP This article provides a
complete description of WAZIT Tablets, from their composition to usage,
contraindications, and more

Description

WAZIT Tablets, a brand of Azithromycin, are oral antibiotics
used to treat a variety of bacterial infections Azithromycin belongs to the
macrolide class of antibacterial drugs and is derived from erythromycin
However, it differs chemically from erythromycin due to the incorporation of a
methyl substituted nitrogen atom into the lactone ring

Clinical Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action: Azithromycin works by binding to the
23S of the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms This
binding inhibits bacterial protein synthesis and hinders the assembly of the
50S ribosomal subunit

Pharmacokinetics: Azithromycin is rapidly absorbed (about
40%) after oral administration It is widely distributed in body tissues and
fluids, with intracellular and tissue levels exceeding those in the serum
Azithromycin has a relatively low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) level It is
primarily excreted unchanged in bile, with a small portion (45%) excreted in
urine The half-life varies depending on the dosing regimen but ranges from 11 to
14 hours after a single dose, 2 to 4 days after several doses, and 59 hours
after extended release suspension

Indications and Usage

WAZIT (Azithromycin) is effective against a range of
microorganisms, including both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria Its
primary indications for use include:

For Adult Patients:

• Acute bacterial
  exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
• Acute bacterial
  sinusitis
• Community acquired
  pneumonia
• Pharyngitis/tonsillitis
• Uncomplicated skin
  and skin structure infections
• Urethritis and
  cervicitis
• Genital ulcer disease
  in men
• Lyme disease
• Typhoid
• Mycobacterial
  infections

For Pediatric Patients:

• Acute otitis media
• Community acquired
  pneumonia
• Pharyngitis/tonsillitis

Prevention of
secondary cases of invasive group A streptococcal infection in patients
allergic to penicillin

It's important to note that Azithromycin should not be used
in patients with pneumonia who are deemed inappropriate for oral therapy, such
as those with severe illness, nosocomial infections, or significant underlying
health problems

Contraindications

WAZIT (Azithromycin) should not be used in patients with
known hypersensitivity to azithromycin, erythromycin, or any macrolide or
ketolide drug It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of
cholestatic jaundice or hepatic dysfunction associated with prior azithromycin
use

Interactions

Several drug interactions may occur with Azithromycin Coad ministration
of azithromycin with specific drugs, such as nelfinavir, warfarin, digoxin,
zidovudine, astemizole, and alfentanil, is not recommended, as it may lead to
increased serum concentrations Caution is advised when using azithromycin with
other agents, such as tiapride, antacids, ergot derivatives, and cyclosporine
For patients on coumarin type oral anticoagulants, prothrombin time should be
monitored more frequently

Use in Specific Populations

WAZIT (Azithromycin) should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, and caution is recommended for nursing mothers as it is excreted in breast milk The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under six months of age are not established, and caution is advised when using Azithromycin in geriatric patients and those with renal or hepatic impairment

Precautions

Patients taking Azithromycin should be aware of potential
hypersensitivity reactions, hepatotoxicity, Infantile Hypertrophic Pyloric
Stenosis (in neonates), QT prolongation, Clostridium difficile associated
diarrhea, exacerbation of myasthenia gravis, and the development of drug resistant
bacteria

Adverse Reactions

Taking azithromycin can lead to a variety of unpleasant side effects, including loss of appetite, joint pain, altered taste and vision, dizziness, indigestion, and headaches. In rare cases, it may also cause more serious problems like liver damage and irregular heartbeats.

Dosage and Administration

Your WAZIT Tablet dosage will differ based on what you're taking it for, your age, and your weight. You can take it with or without food. Always follow your doctor's instructions for dosage and how long to take it.

Over dosage

Overdosing can cause nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

Instructions

Keep WAZIT Tablets at temperatures between 20 °C 25 °C, with excursions permitted to 15 °C30 °C
Keep these tablets away from light and moisture, and make sure they are unreachable for children.

Presentation

WAZIT (Azithromycin) Tablets USP are available in Alu-Alu
blister packs of 6's, each accompanied by a leaflet The two formulations, 250mg
and 500mg, cater to different patient needs and treatment regimens

In summary, WAZIT (Azithromycin) Tablets USP are a valuable
tool in the fight against various bacterial infections However, they should be
used cautiously, following medical guidance, and with an awareness of potential
interactions and adverse reactions Always consult a healthcare professional for
specific dosing instructions and to determine whether WAZIT is the right
treatment for your condition