Azithromycin — Drug Interactions, Alcohol & Pregnancy Guide
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database · 247CanITakeWith Editorial Team
- Azithromycin is a Macrolide antibiotic used for Chest infections.
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol with azithromycin — alcohol impairs immunity and recovery from infection, and may worsen stomach upset.
- Pregnancy: Azithromycin is generally considered safer than clarithromycin in pregnancy and is used when a macrolide antibiotic is needed.
About Azithromycin
Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic with a long half-life (68 hours), allowing short treatment courses (often 3-5 days). It carries a mild QT prolongation risk. Widely used for chlamydia (single 1g dose) and chest infections.
Also sold as: Zithromax, Azithrocin
Azithromycin at a glance
Azithromycin is classed as macrolide antibiotic and is used for chest infections, chlamydia, skin infections, ear infections. It is a prescription medicine, so doses and combinations should always be agreed with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Typical adult dosing guidance: 500mg once daily for 3-5 days (most indications); 1g single dose for chlamydia. Your own label or prescription always takes priority over general figures.
Interactions most often flagged
- Alcohol
- Antacids (reduce absorption)
- Qt-prolonging drugs
Before you combine Azithromycin with anything new
- Read the patient information leaflet for both products.
- Keep one up-to-date list of every medicine and supplement you take.
- Ask a pharmacist — it is free and takes a couple of minutes.
- Seek urgent medical help if you feel seriously unwell after combining medicines.
Azithromycin and Alcohol
Avoid alcohol with azithromycin — alcohol impairs immunity and recovery from infection, and may worsen stomach upset.
Full guide →Azithromycin in Pregnancy
Azithromycin is generally considered safer than clarithromycin in pregnancy and is used when a macrolide antibiotic is needed.
Full guide →More in this category: antibiotics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Azithromycin used for?
Azithromycin is a Macrolide antibiotic used for Chest infections, Chlamydia, Skin infections, Ear infections.
What is the maximum adult dose of Azithromycin?
The maximum adult dose is 500mg once daily for 3-5 days (most indications); 1g single dose for chlamydia. This is general guidance — always follow the dose on your prescription or product label, and check with a pharmacist if you're unsure.
Can I drink alcohol with Azithromycin?
Avoid alcohol with azithromycin — alcohol impairs immunity and recovery from infection, and may worsen stomach upset.
Is Azithromycin safe to take during pregnancy?
Azithromycin is generally considered safer than clarithromycin in pregnancy and is used when a macrolide antibiotic is needed.
Is Azithromycin available over the counter in the UK?
Azithromycin is prescription-only in the UK.
What should I check before taking Azithromycin with other medicines?
The interactions most often flagged for Azithromycin are: alcohol, antacids (reduce absorption), QT-prolonging drugs. Tell your pharmacist or prescriber about everything you take, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, before combining it with anything new.
What are the brand names for Azithromycin?
Azithromycin is sold under brand names including Zithromax, Azithrocin. The active ingredient is the same, so check labels carefully to avoid doubling up on it.
Do I need a prescription for Azithromycin?
Azithromycin is a prescription medicine, so take it exactly as your prescriber directed and ask them before changing the dose.
Not sure if Azithromycin is safe with your other medications?
HealthLabs.com lets you check liver enzyme or kidney function levels before combining medications long-term — no GP referral needed.
Check your levels at HealthLabs →Always speak to your pharmacist or GP for personalised medical advice. Affiliate link — we may earn a commission.