Chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis, and asthma are characterize by inflammation and infection of the airways. Cough is a common symptom in these diseases and can significantly impact the quality of life of patients. Azithromycin over the counter, a macrolide antibiotic, has been used as an adjunct therapy for chronic respiratory diseases related cough. This blog discusses the efficacy and safety of azithromycin in chronic respiratory diseases related cough.
Mechanism of action:
Azithromycin has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in addition to its antibiotic activity. It inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and increases the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-10. It also inhibits the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), a transcription factor that regulates the expression of genes involved in inflammation and immune response. Buy azithromycin online from dosepharmacy.
Efficacy:
Several studies have investigated the efficacy of azithromycin in chronic respiratory diseases related cough. In a randomized controlled trial involving patients with COPD, it significantly reduced the frequency of exacerbations and improved quality of life compared to placebo. Another study showed that azithromycin reduced the frequency of exacerbations in patients with bronchiectasis. In patients with asthma, it reduced the number of exacerbations and improved lung function.
Safety:
Azithromycin is generally well-tolerated, with gastrointestinal symptoms being the most common adverse effects. Prolonged use of azithromycin can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance, and may also increase the risk of cardiovascular events such as QT prolongation and arrhythmias. Therefore, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits of long-term it use in patients with chronic respiratory diseases related cough.
Side effects of Azithromycin
Azithromycin, like all medications, can cause side effects. The most common side effects of Azithromycin include:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain are the most common side effects. Taking this medicine with food can help reduce these symptoms.
- Allergic reactions: Azithromycin can cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms may include rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Allergic reactions are rare but can be serious.
- Liver problems: Azithromycin can cause liver problems, although this is rare. Signs of liver problems include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, and pale stools.
- QT prolongation: This pill can cause QT prolongation, which can lead to an irregular heartbeat. This is more likely in people who have a history of heart problems or are taking other medications that can cause QT prolongation.
- Antibiotic resistance: Overuse or misuse of Azithromycin can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can make future infections more difficult to treat.
- Other side effects: Less common side effects of it include headache, dizziness, ringing in the ears, and changes in taste and smell.
If you experience any of these side effects while taking Azithromycin, it is important to contact your healthcare provider. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects, so it is important to take the medication as prescribed and to let your healthcare provider know if you have any concerns.
Conclusion:
Azithromycin has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in addition to its antibiotic activity, which make it a promising adjunct therapy for chronic respiratory diseases related cough. It has been shown to improve quality of life and reduce the frequency of exacerbations in patients with COPD, bronchiectasis, and asthma. However, prolonged use of this pill can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance and increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the risks and benefits of long-term it use in patients with chronic respiratory diseases related cough.
