Pat asked
Can you start taking ceftin right after finishing a z pak?
Answer
Yes, it is okay to use a different antibiotic, such as Ceftin (cefuroxime), after finishing with azithromycin as there is no drug interaction.
Having said that, most prescribers would recommended waiting at least 5-10 days after completing the Z-Pack. The Z-Pack contains 6 tablets of azithromycin to be taken over a 5 day period of time (two tablets by mouth on the first day then one tablet once daily thereafter).
Azithromycin has a long half life (time it takes for 50% of the drug to be metabolized) and continues to exert its antibacterial effect well after taking the last dose. Most infections don't clear up after 5 days. Generally, it takes 7 to 10 days after your first dose for your infection to clear.
In addition, Ceftin (cefuroxime) and azithromycin are active against different types of bacteria. While one species of bacteria may not be susceptible to azithromycin, it may be to a different antibiotic, such as Ceftin. It is not uncommon to try a different class of antibiotic if the initial choice doesn't clear the bacterial infection.
Depending on your diagnosis, your doctor should be able to select the most appropriate antibiotic based on what type of bacteria is causing your infection.
