A Zithromax heart problems study conducted by Seattle Public Health researchers looking at a possible link between taking the prescription antibiotic and a patient’s risk of developing or worsening existing heart problems conflicts with previous findings.

According to the Zithromax heart problem study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers said they did not find a strong correlation between a patient suddenly developing severe cardiovascular problems and the popular Pfizer antibiotic. The researchers did say, however, that if Zithromax heart problem side effect link exists, consumers are at a very small risk.

This recent Seattle Public Health Report contradicts the FDA’s March 2013 drug and safety communication regarding adverse side effects associated with Zithromax and specifically warned consumers of the drug’s potential to cause serious and sometimes fatal heart activity.

The FDA, which used data published in several Zithromax side effects studies since May 2012, came to the conclusion that Zithromax can disrupt a heart’s electrical activity, which can lead to serious secondary side effects, including death. According to one of the FDA-vetted studies, also published in the New England Journal of Medicine, patients prescribed Zithromax are 2.5 times more likely to develop and die from Zithromax heart problems during a five-day treatment when compared to patients put on other courses on antibiotics.

While this new Zithromax heart problem study contradicts the previously published studies, the FDA has not withdrawn its Zithromax drug and safety warning and continues to advise doctors and healthcare providers to exhibit caution when prescribing Zithromax and to strongly consider alternative antibiotics for patients with existing heart problems.

Serious Zithromax Side Effects and Health Concerns

Zithromax (also known as azithromycin, Z-Pak, or Z-Max) is a popular antibiotic manufactured and sold by Pfizer Inc. This drug is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including pneumonia, tonsillitis, and other conditions. Since gaining FDA approval in 1996, Zithromax has made Pfizer millions of dollars in sales each year.

In addition to heart problems, other serious health conditions allegedly linked to Zithromax use include:

• Stevens Johnson Syndrome
• Liver failure
• Toxic epidermal necrolysis
• Cardiovascular problems
• Sudden death

Additional Zithromax side effects reported by Pfizer Inc. on the drug’s marketing and packaging include:

• chest pain, uneven heartbeats
• severe skin reaction
• mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation
• stomach pain or upset
• dizziness, tired feeling, or headache
• nervous feeling, sleep problems (insomnia)
• vaginal itching or discharge
• mild itching or skin rash
• ringing in your ears, problems with hearing
• decreased sense of taste or smell

Because of the serious health conditions many consumers have allegedly developed and suffered after taking Zithromax, many individuals and families of individuals are filing Zithromax heart problem lawsuits or joining Zithromax class action lawsuits to seek compensation from Pfizer.