Does azithromycin have to be refrigerated?

Azithromycin is a macrolide-type antibiotic, it is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This medication will not work for viral infections (such as the common cold, or flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.

Mechanism of action

Azithromycin prevents bacteria from growing by interfering with their protein synthesis. It binds to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, thus inhibiting the translation of mRNA. Nucleic acid synthesis is not affected.

Adverse effects

The most common adverse effects are diarrhea (5%), nausea (3%), abdominal pain (3%), and vomiting. Fewer than 1% of people stop taking the drug due to side effects. Nervousness, skin reactions, and anaphylaxis have been reported.Clostridium difficile infection has been reported with the use of azithromycin.Azithromycin does not affect the efficacy of birth control, unlike some other antibiotics such as rifampin. Hearing loss has been reported.

Occasionally, people have developed cholestatic hepatitis or delirium. An accidental intravenous overdose in an infant caused severe heart block, resulting in residual encephalopathy.

Whether to refrigerate

Store azithromycin at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Do not refrigerate or freeze the extended-release suspension.