Zetro Side Effects

Zetro is an antibiotic commonly used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Like all medications, it can have side effects. Here are some common and less common side effects associated with Zetro.

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal Disturbances: This is the most common side effect and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Taking the medication with food can help reduce these symptoms.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches while taking Zetro.
• Vaginal Yeast Infections: Zetro use can sometimes lead to yeast infections in women.
• Skin Rash: Skin rashes or itching can occur as a side effect.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Zetro, which can manifest as hives, itching, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
• Liver Problems: Zetro can occasionally affect liver function, resulting in symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, and persistent nausea or vomiting. If you notice these signs, contact your healthcare provider.
• Heart Arrhythmias: There have been reports of Zetro causing irregular heartbeats, especially in people with preexisting heart conditions. If you experience palpitations, dizziness, or fainting, seek medical help.
• Blood Disorders: Rarely, Zetro can affect blood cell counts, leading to conditions like leukopenia (low white blood cell count) or thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).
• Nervous System Effects: Some people have reported nervous system side effects such as dizziness, headache, and changes in taste perception.

Zetro is one of the leading brands of Azithromycin, manufactured and marketed by Gtez Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.

Presently, Zetro is available in Tablets, Capsule, and Suspension forms

Zetro Tablets : 250mg, and 500mg strengths

Zetro Capsule : 250mg strength

Zetro Syrup : 200mg/5ml strength

1. Antacids: Taking antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium within 2 hours of taking Zetro can reduce the absorption of the antibiotic, so it’s advisable to separate their administration.
2. Warfarin: Zetro may interact with the anticoagulant drug warfarin, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding. Monitoring of the INR (International Normalized Ratio) is important when these medications are used together.
3. Digoxin: Zetro can increase the levels of digoxin, a medication used for heart conditions. This may lead to digoxin toxicity, so close monitoring of digoxin levels is necessary.
4. Cyclosporine: Zetro may increase the levels of cyclosporine in the blood, potentially leading to toxic effects. Dosing adjustments and close monitoring are required if these drugs are used together.
5. Phenytoin: Zetro can increase the levels of phenytoin, an antiepileptic medication. Dose adjustments may be necessary, and your phenytoin levels should be closely monitored.
6. Statins: Zetro can increase the risk of muscle-related side effects (myopathy and rhabdomyolysis) when taken with statin drugs, such as simvastatin and atorvastatin. This combination should be used with caution and closely monitored.
7. Other Antibiotics: Zetro should be used cautiously with other antibiotics like erythromycin or clarithromycin, as they can have similar effects and may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
8. QT-Prolonging Drugs: Zetro can prolong the QT interval on an electrocardiogram, which may lead to irregular heart rhythms. It should be used cautiously with other drugs that can also prolong the QT interval, such as certain antipsychotic medications and some antiarrhythmic drugs.
9. Theophylline: Zetro can increase the levels of theophylline, a medication used to treat respiratory conditions. Dosing adjustments and monitoring are necessary.
10. Ergot Derivatives: Zetro may enhance the effects of ergotamine derivatives, which are used to treat migraines, potentially leading to severe vasoconstriction. These drugs should not be taken together.
11. Oral Contraceptives: There have been reports of oral contraceptive failure when taken with Zetro, although the significance of this interaction is debated. It’s advisable to use alternative or additional contraception methods while on Zetro.