IMPORTANT WARNING:  

Why is this medication prescribed? 

Dirithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and skin and throat infections. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?  

Dirithromycin comes as an enteric-coated tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day for 7-14 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take dirithromycin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

The tablets should be swallowed whole. Do not chew, crush, or cut tablets. Take with a full glass of water.

Continue to take dirithromycin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking dirithromycin without talking to your doctor.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?     

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store the tablets at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose     

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?     

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to dirithromycin.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Your prescription is probably not refillable. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the dirithromycin, call your doctor.

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