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What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking azithromycin ophthalmic (AzaSite)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to azithromycin (Zithromax).

FDA pregnancy category B. Azithromycin ophthalmic is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether azithromycin ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use azithromycin ophthalmic (AzaSite)?

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Azithromycin ophthalmic is usually applied twice daily for 2 days, and then once daily for 5 more days. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

To apply the eye drops:

• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper as you squeeze out a drop, then close your eye.
• Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.
• Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.
• If you use more than one drop in the same eye, wait about 5 minutes before putting in the next drop.
• Also wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye drops that your doctor has prescribed.

Do not allow the tip of the dropper to touch any surface, including your eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared.

Store an unopened bottle of azithromycin ophthalmic in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.

After opening the bottle, you may keep the medication at room temperature for up to 14 days. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Protect from moisture and heat.

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