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Roxithromycin: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Roxithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic indicated for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible organisms and more.

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About Roxithromycin

Indications of Roxithromycin

Roxithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic indicated for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible organisms, including:

Established/Guideline-supported Uses

  • Respiratory tract infections: acute bacterial bronchitis, acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, community-acquired pneumonia of mild to moderate severity (including atypical pathogens such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydophila pneumoniae), sinusitis, pharyngitis, and tonsillitis
  • Skin and soft-tissue infections: impetigo, erysipelas, folliculitis, and other susceptible skin infections
  • Ear, nose and throat (ENT) infections: otitis media and other susceptible ENT infections
  • Odontogenic (dental) infections caused by susceptible organisms
  • Uncomplicated genital tract infections such as non-gonococcal urethritis/cervicitis due to Chlamydia trachomatis, used as an alternative agent where first-line options are unsuitable

Off-label / Adjunct Use

  • Used off-label in some settings as part of combination regimens for eradication of Helicobacter pylori and in selected inflammatory skin conditions (e.g., rosacea); such use should be guided by a physician.

Roxithromycin should only be used for infections proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria; it is not effective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu.

Dosage & Administration of Roxithromycin

Adult Dose

IndicationTypical DoseDuration
Respiratory tract, skin/soft-tissue, ENT and odontogenic infections150 mg twice daily (every 12 hours), or 300 mg once daily5-10 days depending on severity and clinical response
Uncomplicated chlamydial genital infection150 mg twice dailyTypically 7-14 days, or as directed by a physician

Pediatric Dose

In children where Roxithromycin is used, the typical weight-based dose is 5-8 mg/kg/day given in two divided doses, not to exceed the usual adult dose. Pediatric dosing should always be individualized and supervised by a physician.

Renal/Hepatic Impairment

No significant dosage adjustment is generally required for mild-to-moderate renal impairment, as elimination is predominantly hepatic. In severe hepatic impairment, Roxithromycin is contraindicated (see Contraindications); in milder hepatic impairment, dose reduction and monitoring of liver function are advised.

Administration

Roxithromycin tablets should be swallowed whole with water, preferably before meals (on an empty stomach), as food reduces absorption.

Antibiotic Stewardship

Take Roxithromycin exactly as prescribed by your physician; do not stop, extend, skip doses, or share this medicine with others without medical advice. Completing the full prescribed course, even if symptoms improve early, helps prevent treatment failure and antibiotic resistance.

Side Effects of Roxithromycin

Most side effects of Roxithromycin are mild and gastrointestinal in nature.

Common

  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Diarrhea, abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Dyspepsia
  • Altered or metallic taste (dysgeusia)

Less Common

  • Headache, dizziness
  • Skin rash, urticaria (hives)

Rare but Serious

  • Hepatotoxicity (elevated liver enzymes, cholestatic jaundice)
  • QT interval prolongation and, rarely, serious ventricular arrhythmias
  • Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea/pseudomembranous colitis
  • Severe hypersensitivity reactions including angioedema and, very rarely, Stevens-Johnson syndrome

Seek prompt medical attention for severe rash, yellowing of the skin/eyes, palpitations, fainting, or persistent severe diarrhea while taking Roxithromycin.

Contraindications of Roxithromycin

Roxithromycin is contraindicated in patients with:

  • Known hypersensitivity to Roxithromycin, erythromycin, or any other macrolide antibiotic
  • Concurrent use with ergot alkaloids (ergotamine, dihydroergotamine), due to risk of ergotism
  • Severe hepatic impairment

Frequently Asked Questions about Roxithromycin

What is Roxithromycin used for?

Roxithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the respiratory tract (such as bronchitis, sinusitis, and pharyngitis), skin and soft tissue, ear/nose/throat, teeth, and certain genital tract infections such as chlamydia, when caused by susceptible bacteria.

How should I take Roxithromycin?

Roxithromycin is usually taken as 150 mg twice daily or 300 mg once daily, before meals, for 5-10 days depending on the infection. Take it exactly as prescribed by your physician; do not stop, extend, skip doses, or share this medicine with others without medical advice, and always complete the full course.

Can I take Roxithromycin during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Roxithromycin has not been extensively studied in pregnancy and no formal pregnancy category exists. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, when potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus, and only under medical supervision. It passes into breast milk in small amounts, so a physician should weigh benefits against possible effects on the nursing infant before it is prescribed to a breastfeeding mother.

What are the common side effects of Roxithromycin?

The most common side effects of Roxithromycin are gastrointestinal, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and altered taste. Less commonly, headache, dizziness, or skin rash may occur. Rare but serious effects include liver problems and heart rhythm (QT prolongation) changes; seek medical attention if these occur.

Who should not take Roxithromycin?

Roxithromycin should not be taken by anyone with a known hypersensitivity to Roxithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics such as erythromycin, anyone using ergot alkaloid medicines (due to risk of ergotism), or patients with severe hepatic (liver) impairment.

What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much Roxithromycin?

If you miss a dose of Roxithromycin, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose - do not double up. If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center, since overdose can worsen typical side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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