Zithromax (azithromycin), also called Zmax, is a macrolide antibiotic manufactured by Pfizer. Because of its blister packaging rather than individual capsules in a pill bottle, it is also referred to as a Z-Pak.

Zmax is commonly prescribed for various infections, including those of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin, ears and is also prescribed for the treatment of sexually transmitted infections.

Unlike traditional antibiotics, which are taken for 7-10 days or longer as a typical course, Zithromax is prescribed as a five-day course, less often as a three day course, and even as a single megadose capsule. Physicians like the increased patient compliance with the ease of dosing and patients prefer the shorter duration that the medication offers while still providing relief from infection.

Zithromax does not work by killing the bacteria present in the body. It works by stopping the reproduction of the bacteria so the body is not overwhelmed with infection. Since the body is not fighting trying to overcome increased levels of harmful bacteria, the immune system has less bacteria to conquer and can eventually eradicate the remaining microbes on its own.

Kidney and Liver Damage Following Zithromax Use

As with any medication, Zithromax has its own set of side effects. While it is given only over a very short term, it can still lead to severe and permanent damage. Two very destructive ways Zithromax can affect individuals is through damage of the liver and kidneys, two major detoxification organs in the body.

The kidneys may be affected by Zithromax in a number of ways. There can be interstitial nephritis, an inflammation of the interstitium that surround the tubules of the kidneys, kidney infection, kidney disease, and kidney failure.

Zithromax liver effects involve hepatitis (liver inflammation), abnormal liver function, jaundice, hepatotoxicity (liver disease), hepatic necrosis (death of portions of the liver), jaundice, and liver failure.

When the body’s major organs of detoxification fail, waste products are not able to be removed from the body. The consequences may be irreversible and devastating, and may lead to death.

Other Zithromax Side Effects

Patients taking Zithromax may also experience other side effects in addition to possible liver and kidney damage. Mild and common side effects include:

• Diarrhea, constipation
• Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting
• Dizziness, headache
• Anxious feelings
• Mild rash or itching
• Feeling tired, insomnia
• Tinnitus or problems hearing
• Decreased sense of taste and smell
• Vaginal itching and discharge

More severe side effects experienced with Zithromax include:

• Stevens Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (severe drug-induced allergic reactions affecting the skin and mucous membranes that are considered a medical emergency and require hospitalization)
• Cardiovascular events including cardiac arrhythmia and heart attack
• Worsening of Myasthenia Gravis, a condition that causes muscle weakness

Zithromax Lawsuit Information

If you or a loved one has suffered liver or kidney complications as a result of taking Zithromax, you may be eligible to file a Zithromax lawsuit.