What is this medication for?
Telithromycin belongs to the family of medications known as ketolide antibiotics. It is used to treat infections caused by certain bacteria. It works by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria that may cause certain infections (such as sinus infections) and lung infections (such as pneumonia and bronchitis).
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult dose of telithromycin is 800 mg once daily, taken with or without food. The usual duration of treatment is 7 to 10 days, depending on the type of infection being treated. The tablets should be swallowed whole. Try to take your tablets at the same time every day, unless your health care provider tells you otherwise.
Finish all of the medication, even if you start to feel better.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Do not take more than one dose in a 24-hour period.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Telithromycin should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to telithromycin or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- is allergic to macrolide antibiotics (such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, or azithromycin)
- is taking cisapride or pimozide
- has had liver damage caused by telithromycin or macrolide antibiotics
- has myasthenia gravis
