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Z-Pak and Nosebleeds

"Z-Pak" is a common name for a pre-packaged dose of Zithromax, a popular antibiotic that is given to fight bacterial infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Zithromax is the brand name of azithromycin. Azithromycin is a macrocide antibiotic which works to kill harmful bacteria in the body.

  1. Z-Pak

    • Zithromax comes in a delivery system of a Z-Pak, which is a pre-measured foil and plastic packet that allows you to push the pills through the back. Since Zithromax must be taken for a full course, the packet helps you keep up with how many pills you have taken and to estimate how many doses you have left to give yourself or your child. Zithromax also comes in liquid form for very small children.

    Z-Pak, Side Effects and Nosebleeds

    • Nosebleeds are not listed as a side effect of Z-Pak in either the literature from Pfizer or from the U.S. government's page on azithromycin. Possible side effects of azithromycin are diarrhea, upset stomach, stomach pain, mild skin rashes and vomiting, which are typical of almost any antibiotic. Contact your doctor if you or your child has the following severe symptoms: hives, severe skin rash, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing or any sort of swelling. Hoarseness, rapid heartbeat and yellowing of the skin or eyes should also be reported if experienced while taking azithromycin.

    Causes and Treatment for Nosebleeds

    • There is no evidence in medical literature that indicates that antibiotics in any form cause nosebleeds. Nosebleeds are usually caused by trauma to the small blood vessels in the nasal cavities. Do not follow the advice to tip the head backwards during a nosebleed because this can cause the blood to run down your throat. Instead, tilt the head forward and pinch the nostrils together just below the bony part of your nose. Applying pressure will help stop the flow of blood. A nosebleed will usually stop within 10 full minutes of applying pressure. Cold compresses will also help staunch the flow of blood. Consider placing a humidifier in the home to decrease the additional chance of a nosebleed.

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