Azithral Jr Oral Suspension

AZITHRAL JR ORAL SUSPENSION is a pediatric antibiotic manufactured by Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited, used to treat various bacterial infections in children.

Name

• Brand Name: Azithral Jr Oral Suspension
• Common Name: Azithromycin Oral Suspension

Composition

The active ingredient is Azithromycin (40 mg/ml or 200mg/5ml), which belongs to the macrolide class of antibiotics. It works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, thereby stopping bacterial growth and spread.

Uses

Azithral Jr Oral Suspension is prescribed for a range of bacterial infections in infants and young children, including:

• Respiratory tract infections: sinusitis, pneumonia, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis, sore throat.
• Ear infections: acute otitis media.
• Skin and soft tissue infections: uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, abscesses, boils.
• Typhoid fever.
• Certain sexually transmitted diseases caused by specific organisms like Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoea.

Dosage and Administration

Administer orally as directed by a healthcare professional. Shake the bottle well before each use and measure the exact quantity with a dosing syringe or medicine cup. It can be taken with or without food, though taking it with food may help if stomach upset occurs. For optimal absorption, it is often recommended one hour before or two hours after meals. It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment and not skip doses, even if symptoms improve. Do not take antacids within two hours of this medicine.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, insomnia, mild skin rash, and itching. Serious but rare side effects can include severe allergic reactions, liver damage, or irregular heart rhythm, especially in overdose. Yeast infections (thrush) may also occur.

Precautions

Inform your doctor about any allergies to azithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics. Use with caution in children with liver disease, heart rhythm disorders (QT prolongation), myasthenia gravis, kidney problems, diabetes, or intolerance to certain sugars. Avoid sun exposure as it can increase the risk of sunburn.

Storage

Store at room temperature, ideally below 30°C or not exceeding 25°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date or if the cap seal is broken.

What is Azithral JR Oral Suspension used for?

Azithral JR Oral Suspension is an antibiotic primarily used to treat various bacterial infections in children and adults. These include infections of the respiratory tract (such as bronchitis, pneumonia, tonsillitis, sore throat, and sinusitis), ear (like acute otitis media), nose, throat, lungs, skin, and eyes. It is also effective in treating typhoid fever and certain sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea.

How does Azithral JR Oral Suspension work?

Azithral JR Oral Suspension contains azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of essential proteins that bacteria need to grow and multiply. By disrupting this process, it stops the bacteria from growing and prevents the infection from spreading, allowing the body's immune system to clear the infection.

What is the usual dosage for Azithral JR Oral Suspension?

The dosage of Azithral JR Oral Suspension should be strictly as advised by your doctor. It depends on the child's age, body weight, the type and severity of the infection, and their response to the medicine. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at a fixed time each day for the best results. A measuring cup, spoon, or dropper should be used for accurate dosing, and the bottle should be shaken well before use.

What are the possible side effects of Azithral JR Oral Suspension?

Common side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain/cramps, headache, dizziness, flatulence, and a mild skin rash. These are usually temporary and tend to subside as the treatment progresses. More serious but rare side effects can include severe allergic reactions (such as rash, swelling of the face/throat, or breathing difficulties), liver injury, or heart rhythm changes. If you notice any serious or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Is Azithral JR Oral Suspension safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Azithral JR Oral Suspension (azithromycin) is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy if prescribed by a doctor when the benefits outweigh the risks. For breastfeeding, azithromycin passes into breast milk in small amounts and is considered safe if prescribed, with no consistently reported side effects in breastfed babies. However, it's advisable to monitor the infant for any signs of an upset stomach, diarrhea, rash, or oral thrush, and consult a doctor if concerns arise.

Can Azithral JR Oral Suspension be taken with other medications?

It is important to inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal preparations your child is currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

• Antacids: Do not take antacids (like aluminum hydroxide or magnesium carbonate) within 2 hours before or after taking Azithral JR Oral Suspension, as they can affect its effectiveness.
• Blood Thinners: Caution is advised when taken with blood thinners like warfarin, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
• Heart Medications: Medicines for heart failure, such as digoxin, should be used with caution.
• Migraine Medications: Medicines for migraine headaches, such as ergotamine, should not be used concurrently.
• Immunosuppressants: Medications like ciclosporin should be used with caution.

What precautions should be taken while using Azithral JR Oral Suspension?

• Inform your doctor if the child has a history of allergies to azithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics.
• Caution is advised in children with liver disease, kidney problems, heart rhythm disorders (QT prolongation), diabetes, or myasthenia gravis, as the medication may exacerbate these conditions.
• Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to ensure all bacteria are killed and to prevent the infection from returning or becoming harder to treat.
• Avoid direct exposure to sunlight or tanning beds as Azithral JR Oral Suspension may increase the risk of sunburn.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If a dose of Azithral JR Oral Suspension is missed, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should it be stored?

Azithral JR Oral Suspension should be stored at room temperature, ideally below 30°C (86°F), away from direct sunlight or heat and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets. Do not use the medicine beyond its expiry date. Ensure the bottle is tightly closed after use.