Q: Dad was a prescribed a 10-day "z-pack" dose of antibiotics. Since he started taking it, he seems lethargic and complains of feeling exhausted. Is that a side effect of the medication?
A: Individuals can respond very differently to any medication, and antibiotics can be even more problematic. For example, side effects of Azithromycin (sold under the brand names Zithromax and Zmax)
reported most frequently are upset stomach, diarrhea and vomiting.
Antibiotics, (which means "against life") many times alter or kill off the bacteria (good and bad) in the GI tract. This can cause a change if bowel habits, food and nutrient absorption which may cause you to feel tired or listless.
If an antibiotic is being taken and you don't feel better – or if you feel worse – always check back with your prescriber. It may be something serious or maybe the prescribed antibiotic isn't taking care of the "bug" that causing the illness.
Lynn Harrelson is a pharmacist who specializes in medication and prescription management for seniors.
Read her full biography
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