DrugindexOnline^{2nd edition}

Generic name: Dirithromycin
Brand names: Dynabac

Why is Dirithromycin prescribed?

Dynabac cures certain mild-to-moderate skin infections and respiratory infections such as strep throat, tonsillitis, pneumonia, and flare-ups of chronic bronchitis. Dynabac is part of the same family of drugs as the commonly prescribed antibiotic erythromycin.

Most important fact about Dirithromycin

Like all antibiotics, Dynabac should be taken until the entire prescription is finished, even if you begin to feel better after the first few days. If you stop taking this medicine too soon, the strongest germs may survive and cause a relapse.

How should you take Dirithromycin?

Take Dynabac with food or within 1 hour after a meal. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or break it.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If you don't remember until the next day, skip the forgotten dose and go back to your regular schedule. Never try to "catch up" by doubling the dose.

--Storage instructions...

Store Dynabac at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Dynabac.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, nausea, vomiting

Why should Dirithromycin not be prescribed?

If you have ever had an allergic reaction to Dynabac or to similar antibiotics such as erythromycin (E.E.S., PCE, and others), do not take Dirithromycin.

Special warnings about Dirithromycin

Dynabac, like certain other antibiotics, may cause a potentially life-threatening form of diarrhea called pseudomembranous colitis. A mild case may clear up on its own when the drug is stopped. For a more severe case, your doctor may need to prescribe fluids, electrolytes, and another antibiotic.

If you have liver disease, use Dynabac with caution and only if absolutely necessary.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Dirithromycin

If Dynabac is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Dynabac with the following:

Antacids (Maalox, Mylanta)
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Famotidine (Pepcid)
Nizatidine (Axid)
Ranitidine (Zantac)
Theophylline drugs such as Bronkodyl, Slo-Phyllin, Theo-Dur, and others

The following medications can interact with the related drug erythromycin:

Astemizole (Hismanal)
Blood-thinning drugs such as Coumadin
Bromocriptine (Parlodel)
Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
Cyclosporine (Sandimmune and Neoral)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Disopyramide (Norpace)
Ergot-containing drugs such as Cafergot and D.H.E.
Lovastatin (Mevacor)
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Triazolam (Halcion)
Valproate (Depakene, Depakote)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. You should take Dynabac during pregnancy only if it is clearly needed. It is not known whether Dynabac appears in breast milk. If Dirithromycin is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS AND CHILDREN 12 AND OVER

Bronchitis and Skin Infections

The usual dose is 500 milligrams (2 tablets) once a day for 5 to 7 days.

Pneumonia

The usual dose is 500 milligrams (2 tablets) once a day for 14 days.

Strep Throat and Tonsillitis

The usual dose is 500 milligrams (2 tablets) once a day for 10 days.

ADULTS UNDER 12 YEARS OF AGE

The safety and effectiveness of Dynabac in children under the age of 12 have not been established.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Dynabac overdose may include:
  Diarrhea, nausea, stomach problems, vomiting