Azithromycin

Azithromycin is an antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections. While it is not specifically licensed for traveller’s diarrhoea, it has been widely prescribed for this condition for many years due to its effectiveness in reducing symptoms quickly.

Azithromycin works by targeting and eliminating the bacteria responsible for traveller’s diarrhoea. When taken at the onset of symptoms, it helps reduce the severity and duration of diarrhoea, with most people experiencing improvement within 24 hours. It is often used alongside loperamide, which helps control diarrhoea by slowing down bowel movements.

• Dosage: The recommended treatment is 500mg once daily for three days. This can be taken as one 500mg tablet or two 250mg tablets per day.
• When to Take It: Start taking azithromycin only when symptoms of diarrhoea begin, not as a preventative measure.
• Taking with Other Medications: If using antacids for indigestion, allow at least 2 hours between taking azithromycin and the antacid.

Azithromycin is generally well tolerated, but some people may experience:

• Stomach upset or nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Mild abdominal pain

Most side effects are temporary and resolve on their own. However, if diarrhoea worsens or you develop symptoms such as severe dehydration, fever, or blood in your stools, seek medical attention.

Do not take azithromycin if you have:

•  A known allergy to azithromycin, erythromycin, or clarithromycin.
• Heart conditions, including irregular heartbeat.
• Liver or kidney disease.
• Myasthenia gravis (a neuromuscular disorder).
• You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive without consulting a doctor.

Medication Interactions
Azithromycin may interact with certain medications, including:

• Heart medications (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol, digoxin).
• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, edoxaban).
• Migraine medications (e.g., ergotamine).
• Antidepressants or antipsychotics.
• Quinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, moxifloxacin).

If you take any of these medications, consult your doctor before using azithromycin.