Side effects of azithromycin

These common side effects of azithromycin happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

Stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food while you're taking this medicine.

Drink lots of fluids such as water or squash to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee. Do not take any other medicines to treat diarrhoea without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

If you take the combined contraceptive pill or progestogen-only pill and you have severe, watery diarrhoea, or any diarrhoea that lasts for more than 24 hours, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet for advice.

Take small frequent sips of water or squash to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee.

Do not take any other medicines to treat vomiting without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

If you take the combined contraceptive pill or progestogen-only pill and you're being sick, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet for advice.

Eat when you would usually expect to be hungry. If it helps, eat smaller meals more often than usual. Snack when you're hungry. Have nutritious snacks that are high in calories and protein, such as dried fruit and nuts.

Rest and drink plenty of water. Do not drink too much alcohol. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller if you need one. Talk to your doctor if the headaches do not go away or are severe.

If you feel dizzy when you stand up, try getting up very slowly or stay sitting down until you feel better. If you begin to feel dizzy, lie down so you do not faint, then sit until you feel better.

Do not drive, ride a bike or use tools or machinery if you feel dizzy or tired.

Do not drink alcohol as it may make you feel worse.

Talk to your doctor if this is bothering you.

Keep taking the medicine, but talk to your doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and a side effect bothers you or does not go away.