AzaSite 1 % eye drops

Generic name:
Azithromycin solution - ophthalmic

Pronunciation
(ay-ZITH-roe-MYE-sin)

Brand name(s)
Azasite

This medication is used to treat certain eye infections. It is a macrolide antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

This medication treats only bacterial eye infections. It will not work for other types of eye infections. Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using azithromycin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily (8 to 12 hours apart) for the first 2 days and then once daily for the next 5 days.

To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface.

Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medicine or while you have the bacterial eye infection. Sterilize contact lenses according to manufacturer's directions, and check with your doctor before you begin using them again.

If you are using this medication for the first time, hold the dropper upright and remove the cap. This will release any extra pressure in the dropper. Put the cap back on before shaking the dropper.

Before each use, hold the dropper upside down and shake once. With the dropper still upside down, remove the cap. Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place 1 drop into the pouch. Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose) and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed.

If you are using another kind of eye medication (such as drops or ointments), wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye.

Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. Keep using it for the full time prescribed. Stopping the medication too soon may result in a return of the infection.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

Temporary eye irritation/stinging/burning or blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

• vision changes
• eye pain

Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in other types of eye infections, including fungal infections. Contact your doctor if you notice new or worsening eye symptoms.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using azithromycin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other macrolide antibiotics such as erythromycin or clarithromycin; or to ketolide antibiotics such as telithromycin; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:

• other eye problems

After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if azithromycin passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.

Do not share this medication with others.

This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Throw away the unused medication after treatment is completed or after 14 days (see also Storage section). Do not use it later for another infection unless your doctor tells you to.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store the unopened bottle in the refrigerator. Store the opened bottle in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Once the bottle is opened, this medication expires after 14 days. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.