Z-Pak Reviews & Ratings - Drugs.com (2024)

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Z-Pakhas an average rating of 7.5 out of 10 from a total of 25 reviewson Drugs.com.68% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 25% reported a negative experience.

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Bacterial Infection

7.5

25 reviews for Bacterial Infection176 medications
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Reviews for Z-Pak

  • Covid...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • April 7, 2020

For Pneumonia "Went to the hospital because of fever over a week and pain above my navel. They x rayed my chest and told me I have double pneumonia and most likely COVID-19. I have finished the entire z pack (azithromycin) now and feel worse everyday. Doctors ignore my complaints. Diarrhea, fever, dizziness, chills, and the worst pain in my chest I have ever had even when not breathing deeply. However they still won’t test me for the virus. I don’t have any more meds and my doctor said not to come in for a follow up because I could get others sick. I am in mandatory quarantine with my family. I hope I don't die."

1 / 10

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56Report

  • akehey
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • May 30, 2020

For Bacterial Infection "These bad reviews TERRIFIED me. I took this for strep throat and within the second day I was feeling better. I have 1 more day left and will be done with it. I’ve had no bad issues. The first day with the 2 pills made my stomach hurt a little and I got mild diarrhea but after that I had no more issues. Make sure to eat a full meal when taking it. And stop overthinking! Anxiety causes stomach pain and bathroom issues as well. If you’re freaking out due to the reviews I would not be shocked if you end up in the bathroom. Please don’t let the reviews deter you. Everyone’s body is different."

10 / 10

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36Report

  • langel
  • September 1, 2020

For Bacterial Infection "I'm only on day 2 and Z-Pak has worked wonders. I have taken it with food and with a pretty healthy system, I have had no side effects. I have a bacterial infection in my gums causing the tissue to swell over a tooth which caused the pain to be unbearable, but after a couple of these pills I can already see the difference. Things feel better and the infection is clearing."

9 / 10

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18Report

Frequently asked questions

  • What are the best antibiotics for a tooth infection?
  • What antibiotics kill Covid-19 (coronavirus)?
  • How long does azithromycin stay in your system?
  • What is the best antibiotic to treat strep throat?
  • Greasy...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • October 14, 2020

For Bacterial Infection "I had to share my experience after seeing all of the negative reviews. I had to take Z-Pak for an abscessed tooth before a root canal procedure. I was freaked bc of all the reviews I read, which were negative. I am sensitive to meds (which is why I read reviews for Z-pak). I had 0 side effects, no nausea, nothing. Just maybe feeling hungry, but not really. If that makes sense. Took the full dose. 2 on the first day, then 4 the next 4 days. I would take again, if needed. I am allergic to the cillins, and had more side effects from when I would be prescribed erthomyicin. Everyone is different with meds, but this did not give me a horrible experience."

10 / 10

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14Report

  • FluBr...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • November 6, 2019

For Bacterial Infection "Z-pak is the only antibiotic I don’t have an allergic reaction to or side effects from. I agree with the reviews, it either works fast and is awesome or it doesn’t work. If you need a second dose, your illness is probably something else. Pop a Pepcid before taking it and eat while you take it, prevents heartburn/upset stomach. Be well out there and please stay home if you’re sick:)"

10 / 10

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13Report

Are you taking this medicine?

  • MamaB...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • February 19, 2020

For Bacterial Infection "Unbelievable! I was sick for almost 9 days with a horrible horrible feeling inside of my body and then up all night with dry coughs and I was just really run down and I even had to take a day off of work. I went into my doctor just for a regular yearly checkup and they ran blood tests and found my white blood count to be high when I was getting checked for something else. When he called me back he told me that he was going to put a Z Pack in for me. I felt better 5 hours after taking a z-pack I literally had no cough and my body felt back to normal and I can tell you that it hasn't even been 24 hours and I feel 80% better! It was seriously like the best night's rest I've had in 5 days my cough immediately went away. I think one of the best things also is the fact that it doesn't interact with my thyroid medication. I'm so happy about this so I'm going to call and let him know today!"

10 / 10

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  • SueSue
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • April 6, 2021

For Bacterial Infection "My Dictor called this in for me after a 10-day stomach bug. I felt it was bacterial vs. viral and within 2 days of taking the Z-Pak I felt 90% better and by Day 5 was 100% with no symptoms and a full appetite."

10 / 10

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9Report

More FAQ

  • Does azithromycin cure chlamydia: How much / how long?
  • What are the best antibiotics for pneumonia?
  • What antibiotics are used to treat chlamydia and gonorrhea?
  • Can you drink alcohol with Z-Pak (Azithromycin)?
  • Chris
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • May 18, 2023

"I was prescribed a Z-Pak before a trip out of the country for potential strep throat. A family member had strep and I was feeling off prior to the trip so I called a teledoctor and they prescribed the Z-Pak. I took the first dose. Within 45 minutes I had diarrhea and my heart rate shot over 120 bpm. I attributed these symptoms to anxiety prior to the trip. Went to bed and woke up around 2.30 am sweating, my heart racing, and my body shaking/jerking. Needless to say, the trip was canceled. Anxiety, headaches, and diarrhea lasted days after along with sleeping hours upon end. Literally felt like I was hit by a truck. I will not be taking a Z-Pak again."

1 / 10

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3Report

  • Best...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • March 8, 2023

For Bacterial Infection "I’m allergic to many antibiotics, and the ones I’m not allergic to, make me physically ill with nausea and terrible stomach upset. This is the only antibiotic I can take without worrying about horrible side effects. I highly recommend it. It’s also easier to take than many other antibiotics that you have to take multiple times a day. Don’t let any bad reviews scare you, this is a great antibiotic! I’m currently on it for a root canal. But I’ve had it a couple of times in the past for other issues."

10 / 10

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3Report

  • hhl
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • August 9, 2020

For Bacterial Infection "Z pack works well for clearing up Strep throat, HOWEVER- caused *severe* appetite loss. Loose stools 1x a day. I lost 7lbs in 3 days on this. Obviously weight can be gained back & the Strep is gone - but ask your Dr. for a script of Zofran with this! & Diflucan. Increased my anxiety a ton at night as well. could not sleep Pros- worksCons- you will never want to eat, also a lot of anxiety at night from this"

8 / 10

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8Report

  • wildj...
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • October 15, 2014

For Bacterial Infection "I am allergic to just about every antibiotic out there but the Z-pack is pretty good in taking care of the sinus infections I get, without too many side effects. A little bit of upset stomach occurs but its minor. Z pack always takes care of the infection promptly."

9 / 10

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15Report

  • Bry
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • May 1, 2022

For Bacterial Infection "I had to take a z-pak for 5 days, starting a week and a half ago. The first two days were fine, it started to clear up my infection incredibly fast, but starting on the 3rd day I began to get stomach pain. Now, it’s been almost a week since my last dose and I’ve been in bed writhing in pain everyday, the cramps and gas pains are out of this world. It also gave me extreme heart palps and I passed out a few nights ago! I’ve taken z packs in the past with no issues, not sure what’s happening this time. I’m typing this from the bathroom as I sit trying so hard to go, but nothing comes, just severe pain."

5 / 10

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4Report

  • Abby
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • August 17, 2018

For Bacterial Infection "Doctor prescribed amoxicillin for my sinusitis (10 day supply). By day 4 my phlegm was green and I felt worse than day 1. Told doctor to prescribe Z-Pack. I took the double dose on the first day and within six hours felt 80% better. By day two no more green phlegm and feeling almost 100% better."

10 / 10

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9Report

  • Jess...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • May 24, 2018

For Bacterial Infection "I love the zpak! I am allergic to most every antibiotic out there and so this is my go to. I have 3 infections right now, double ear, sinus and lung. I felt terrible 2 days ago and now I am awesome. I am having the poops and when I take it on an empty stomach it hurts, but a bit of food and I am fine as wine. I have 2 days left of a 5 day and I feel awesome. I love this antibiotic. Plus for me, is as soon as I am done with it I poop normal again."

10 / 10

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9Report

  • AvaHe...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • August 24, 2021

For Bacterial Infection "I was experiencing a tension headache off/on for close to two weeks. I suspected I had a sinus infection & went to the ER because I couldn’t get in to see my PCP for weeks. I took the Zpack as prescribed (my last dose was last Thursday) I still feel like I have a sinus headache in addition to dizziness, fatigue, diarrhea & anxiety. I felt after taking it & worse I ended up back in the ER & was told they didn’t find a sinus infection at all & I need to follow up with a Neurologist because they couldn’t find anything on the CT that could cause the headaches either! I had a horrible reaction to a medication last year (Lexapro) which increased my anxiety symptoms. I have been in therapy & doing well with no panic attacks in months. I feel like I possibly set myself back taking the Zpack. It was my first & LAST time taking it,I NEVER experienced these side effects taking Amoxicillin. I had to take time off from work to recoup,I want this out my system as quickly as possible!!"

1 / 10

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3Report

  • Never...
  • July 20, 2017

For Bacterial Infection "Took first dose of two tablets for bronchitis and lost all ability to taste food in a few hours, also had to leave work as I felt very tired. No change to bronchitis symptoms. Day two, continues to have no ability to taste food and headache (5/10) began after second dose. Bronchitis symptoms mildly improving. Following third dose, severe headache and ear ache, took tramadol which made it manageable. Not taking 4th dose, currently experiencing horrific stomach cramps and diarrhea. Still can't taste anything and have significant headache. Felt much better with bronchitis symptoms, feel like death. Never again."

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6Report

  • Kathy
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • September 16, 2018

For Bacterial Infection "I am now to the point where I specifically ask Drs not to prescribe Z-Paks for me. Sometimes, they argue & say, "it will work". Of course, it doesn't & then they give me a second Z -pac prescription. It still doesn't work, then finally they relent & prescribe something that does!"

1 / 10

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4Report

  • Imanou
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • March 19, 2023

For Tonsillitis/Pharyngitis "Literally a lifesaver!! Was in agony and had a terrible sore throat, strep, and tonsillitis - within 12 hours of taking the medication I had some stomach cramps but no sore throat and was feeling so much better. Z-Pak is a miracle antibiotic."

10 / 10

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1Report

  • Jake
  • August 19, 2017

For Bacterial Infection "Everyone. Most Respiratory infections are virus. Zpack works great on PNEUMONIA, which most people do not have. If the zpack is not working for you, you have a virus. Learn to live with it. Your body fights them off pretty good. Coughing last the longest."

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4Report

  • TJ2015
  • April 22, 2015

For Bacterial Infection "I love this stuff! I am a smoker so am prone to getting bronchitis more. Getting sick stinks but when i get bronchitis which is almost every year i get this med and by the 2nd or 3rd day am feeling much better and by day 4 I don't really feel like am sick anymore but you need to finish the meds! That is the must. A have also been told that it might not work the first time around so you need to take a 2nd round of the meds. I call it the miracle drug!"

10 / 10

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4Report

  • Cruff...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • January 11, 2016

For Bacterial Infection "Got rid of my very bad case of bronchitis in 4 days. I was given a 5 day treatment plan. So I took all the antibiotic pillsMy Dr also gave me just 1 anti fungal pill because I get Thrush in my mouth and/or a yeast infection. I took that on the 3rd dad of the antibiotic pills. And it worked!"

9 / 10

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4Report

  • Trey
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • April 18, 2018

"Had a sore throat and swollen left tonsil as well as earache (from pain in tonsil) and malaise for five days before I finally caved and saw a doctor. Sure enough I had bacterial tonsilitis. I'm allergic to the entire penicillin family so I was prescribed z-pak. It's been less than 24 hours and I'm already feeling so much better. I'll get my first good sleep in almost a week tonight!"

10 / 10

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3Report

  • Anonymous
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • November 13, 2021

For Bacterial Infection "I took the Z pack (5 day) for walking pneumonia and to be honest I didn't even know I had walking pneumonia, I thought it was a regular cold. I took the Z Pac and really didn't feel a differently til 5 days and but then still have the same symptoms coming back lingering around after I finished. I went to get a check up and there is no sign of Pneumonia at all so I guess it takes a while for the symptoms to fully go away, and I will just let me body fully heal. I guess I can basically give it a 9 for making the pneumonia go away."

9 / 10

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1Report

  • Britt...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • October 24, 2015

For Bacterial Infection "I started taking this medication for my bronchitis and I feel better already. I have bronchitis and it has seemed to help. I have noticed that I have diarrhea and some stomach pains. I'm pretty restless at night. Overall, I think it's alright."

7 / 10

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2Report

  • Help
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • December 16, 2021

For Bacterial Infection "It helped my sinus infection after day two but the side effects are worse than how I was originally feeling. My legs are burning on fire, heart racing like crazy, high blood pressure, headache, body aches, fighting back and forth with the same fever I already had but it’s worse, swollen lips and lymph nodes."

3 / 10

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0Report

Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.

More about Z-Pak (azithromycin)

  • Check interactions
  • Compare alternatives
  • Reviews (30)
  • Side effects
  • Dosage information
  • During pregnancy
  • Drug class: macrolides
  • Breastfeeding

Patient resources

Other brands

Zithromax, Azithromycin Dose Pack, Zmax

Professional resources

  • Azithromycin monograph
  • Azithromycin Tablets (FDA)

Other brands

Zithromax, Zmax

Related treatment guides

  • Bacterial Infection
Z-Pak Reviews & Ratings - Drugs.com (2024)

FAQs

Z-Pak Reviews & Ratings - Drugs.com? ›

Z-Pak has an average rating of 7.6 out of 10 from a total of 26 reviews on Drugs.com. 69% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 24% reported a negative experience.

Why don t doctors prescribe Zpacks anymore? ›

Some people have concerns about the Z pack itself due to azithromycin, which is the active ingredient in the medicine. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have issued a safety warning about the drug, noting that the antibiotic may cause abnormal changes in the electrical activity of the heart.

Why is azithromycin no longer recommended? ›

Azithromycin, a commonly prescribed antibiotic for common infections since the early 1990s, is becoming less effective because of growing antimicrobial resistance.

How long does it take for a Z-Pack to make you feel better? ›

The medication should help you feel better within a few days regardless of how you take it. Azithromycin is effective for many people. But the side effects are sometimes a burden. Stomach-related symptoms — such as diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain — are relatively common.

Is a Z-Pack stronger than amoxicillin? ›

Amoxicillin is often the first choice for treating bacterial infections, but some research indicates that azithromycin may be more effective. One reason for this is that it meets less bacteria resistance.

Is there an alternative to Zpack? ›

Amoxicillin, Augmentin, cefaclor, doxycycline, and levofloxacin are some azithromycin alternatives. Get the full list here. Azithromycin, generic for the brand name prescription-only Zithromax and Zithromax Z-Pak, is a member of the macrolide class of antibiotics.

Who should not take a Zpack? ›

liver or kidney problems. heart problems, including irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia) ever had diarrhoea when you have taken antibiotics before. myasthenia gravis – azithromycin can make the symptoms of this muscle-weakening condition worse.

What is the black box warning for azithromycin? ›

Although azithromycin carries a black-box warning for QTc prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, these are considered rare adverse effects.

What is the problem with azithromycin? ›

Azithromycin may cause diarrhea, and in some cases it can be severe. It may occur 2 months or more after you stop using this medicine. Do not take any medicine to treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor. Diarrhea medicines may make the diarrhea worse or make it last longer.

Why is azithromycin high risk? ›

Also, in vitro, azithromycin shows only lim- ited blockade of the potassium channel hERG. This channel is critically involved in cardio- myocyte repolarization, and if it is blocked or otherwise malfunctioning, the result can be a prolonged QT interval, ventricular arrhyth- mias, and even sudden cardiac death.

What foods should you avoid while taking azithromycin? ›

Stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food while you're taking this medicine. Drink lots of fluids such as water or squash to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee.

Should you take azithromycin in the morning or at night? ›

Azithromycin is usually given once each day. This is usually in the morning. Give the medicine at about the same time(s) each day so that this becomes part of your child's daily routine, which will help you to remember.

What pain reliever can I take with azithromycin? ›

Can you take ibuprofen or Tylenol with azithromycin? Yes, it's safe to take azithromycin with ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). While these over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers won't treat your infection, they can help temporarily relieve pain and fever you may be experiencing.

What is the name of the strongest antibiotic pill? ›

Vancomycin 3.0 is one of the most potent antibiotics ever created.

Is Zpack good for sinus infection? ›

A Z-Pak is a quick course of the antibiotic azithromycin, which is used to treat bacterial upper respiratory tract infections. It used to be a go-to for sinus infections too. However, doctors now know better, and Z-Paks is no longer recommended for sinus infections.

What is the best antibiotic for chronic sinusitis? ›

Best Antibiotics for Sinusitis

Amoxicillin (Amoxil) or amoxicillin clavulanate (Augmentin) are typically the first recommendations for people not allergic to penicillin. Amoxicillin is a penicillin-like antibiotic used to treat all kinds of infections, including chest, ear, and sinus infections.

Is the Z-Pack still available? ›

Azithromycin is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation under different brand names, including Zithromax, Zithromax Z-Pak, Zmax, AzaSite, and Zithromax TRI-PAK. Azithromycin may be prescribed as oral tablets, liquids, injections, and intravenous drips.

Is azithromycin still prescribed? ›

Azithromycin is available on prescription as capsules, tablets and a liquid that you swallow.

What is the strongest antibiotic for sinus infection? ›

Best Antibiotics for Sinusitis

Amoxicillin (Amoxil) or amoxicillin clavulanate (Augmentin) are typically the first recommendations for people not allergic to penicillin. Amoxicillin is a penicillin-like antibiotic used to treat all kinds of infections, including chest, ear, and sinus infections.

Why do doctors not prescribe antibiotics anymore? ›

Overusing antibiotics (taking them unnecessarily, too often, or not correctly) creates antibiotic-resistant bacteria. When Sir Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin in the 1920s, he predicted bacteria might become resistant to the drug if used too often or incorrectly.

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