(7 pts.) The effective half-life of the antibiotic azithromycin (Zithromax®) is

Question

(7 pts.) The effective half-life of the antibiotic azithromycin (Zithromax®) is approximately 3 days in human blood. This half-life is a result of a branched process: 1) excretion in bile and urine and 2) absorption by tissues. A typical single dose of azithromycin is a 250 mg tablet taken orally (eaten). Suppose you are prescribed azithromycin to treat an infection that is expected to be cured in 1.5-2 weeks. One major, common side effect is diarrhea. Circle the dosing regimen that seems the most reasonable to you in terms of treating your infection and avoiding side effects. Briefly (in 2-4 sentences and/or equations) explain your reasoning. 4. i. ii. iii. iv. 500 mg twice daily for 2 weeks 500 mg once on day 1, then 250 mg once daily for 4 days 2 g once 250 mg once daily for 2 weeks

Explanation / Answer

The dosing regimen of Azithromycin (Zithromax) of 500mg once on day 1, then 250 mg once daily for 4 days seems like the more reasonable one.

Mild to moderate bacterial infections are treated with Azithromycin 500mg dose on Day 1 and 250mg once daily on days 2 through 5.

However, diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued.

Adverse reactions to the 2g once dose include 14% more chances of diarrhea. This dosage is given only in cases of Gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis.

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