Zithrolex
Form: Capsule
Strength: 500mg
Generic Name: Azithromycin
Company: Mystic Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
MRP:৳ 28.0 (Capsule)
Is Antibiotic: Yes
Indications
Zithrolex is used to treat bacterial eye infections caused by certain bacteria like CDC coryneform group G, Haemophilus influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mitis group, and Streptococcus pneumonia.
Pharmacology
Zithrolex is stable in acid and can be taken orally without needing protection from stomach acid. Zithrolex is absorbed easily, especially when taken on an empty stomach. After taking Zithrolex, the highest level in the body is reached in 2.1 to 3.2 hours. Zithrolex is concentrated in the white blood cells and is delivered to the infection site. The drug is stored in the tissues and released over time, with levels in tissues being over 50 times higher than in the blood. This allows a single dose to remain effective for several days. After one dose, Zithrolex stays in the body for up to 68 hours. Zithrolex is mainly eliminated through bile, with a small amount leaving the body unchanged in urine.
Microbiology
Zithrolex works by binding to a part of bacteria, stopping them from making proteins, which prevents the bacteria from growing. Zithrolex does not affect the bacteria’s genetic material. Zithrolex is effective against many bacteria, including:
- Gram-positive bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Streptococcus pyogenes.
- Gram-negative bacteria like Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.
- Other bacteria like Chlamydia pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Chlamydia trachomatis.
Zithrolex works even against some bacteria that produce betalactamase, an enzyme that makes other antibiotics less effective.
Dosage & Administration
Adults and children 1 year and older: Put 1 drop in the affected eye(s) twice a day for the first 2 days, then once a day for the next 5 days.
Pediatric use: Zithrolex has not been tested in children under 1 year of age, so Zithrolex is not recommended for them.
Interaction
No interaction studies have been done with Azithromycin Eye Drops.
Contraindications
Zithrolex should not be used by anyone who is allergic to any of its ingredients.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include eye irritation, skin irritation, corneal damage, dry eyes, and inflammation of the cornea.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Zithrolex is classified as Pregnancy Category B, meaning no harm was found in animal studies. However, Zithrolex should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. Zithrolex is not known if Zithrolex passes into breast milk, so caution is advised when using Zithrolex while nursing.
Precautions & Warnings
Zithrolex is only for use in the eyes. Zithrolex should not be used in the bloodstream, injected into the eye, or placed into the inner part of the eye.
Overdose Effects
No specific overdose effects have been reported.
Therapeutic Class
Zithrolex belongs to the Macrolide class of antibiotics.
Storage Conditions
Store the unopened bottle in the fridge between 2°C to 8°C. After opening, keep Zithrolex at room temperature (25°C) for up to 14 days. Discard Zithrolex after 14 days.
Similar Brands of Azithromycin (Capsule – 500mg)
| Brand Name | Form | Strength | Company | MRP (৳) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Azitel | Capsule | 500mg | Cosmic Pharma Ltd. | 35.0 |
| Azithromycin | Capsule | 500mg | EDCL | 0.0 |
| Maclid 500 | Capsule | 500mg | Ethical Drug Ltd. | 35.0 |