Zithromax

Maker:
Pfizer (Zithromax); various others (generic)

What it does:
Treats and helps prevent mycobacterium avium complex

Traditional dosage:
For treatment of mycobacterium avium complex, one 600-mg tablet daily, with 15 mg of Myambutol; for prevention, two 600-mg tablets, once weekly, which may be combined with Mycobutin

Drug interactions, precautions, & recommendations:
When this drug is used with Viracept, which can increase concentrations of Zithromax, the patient should be monitored closely for known side effects of Zithromax, such as liver enzyme abnormalities and hearing impairment.

Side effects:
Most serious: irregular heart activity, in rare cases fatal; liver enzyme abnormalities and other liver problems, severe diarrhea, hearing impairment Other: nausea, vomiting, mild to moderate diarrhea, abdominal pain