Azuma: A Brand of Azithromycin for Bacterial Infections

What it is

Azuma is a brand of azithromycin. Azithromycin belongs to a class of antibiotics called macrolides. It works against certain bacteria that cause infections. This medicine is available as 500 mg tablets.

What it's used for

Azuma is used for mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible bacteria. These include acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, acute bacterial sinusitis, uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, community-acquired pneumonia (mild severity), pharyngitis/tonsillitis (as second-line therapy), and genital ulcer disease. Always consult a doctor to confirm if this medicine is right for your infection.

How it's taken

Azuma tablets are taken by mouth, typically as a single dose or a short course of once-daily dosing. For example, one common regimen is 500 mg on the first day followed by 250 mg once daily for four more days. However, the exact dose and duration depend on the type and severity of infection. Follow your doctor’s prescription exactly.

Common side effects

The most common side effects include diarrhea (5 to 14% of patients), nausea (3 to 18%), abdominal pain (3 to 7%), and vomiting (2 to 7%). Contact your doctor if these become severe or persistent.

Important cautions

Do not take Azuma if you are allergic to azithromycin, erythromycin, or any macrolide or ketolide antibiotic. Also avoid it if you have had liver problems with previous azithromycin use. Serious side effects can occur, including severe allergic reactions, liver injury (stop immediately if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain), infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in newborns, QT prolongation (heart rhythm problem), and Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea. Tell your doctor about any medical conditions, especially liver disease, heart problems, or myasthenia gravis.

Frequently asked questions