{"id":632877,"date":"2025-07-15T17:37:05","date_gmt":"2025-07-15T21:37:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=632877"},"modified":"2025-10-17T11:59:00","modified_gmt":"2025-10-17T15:59:00","slug":"does-azithromycin-make-you-tired","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/does-azithromycin-make-you-tired\/","title":{"rendered":"Does azithromycin make you tired? How to avoid fatigue"},"content":{"rendered":"

Azithromycin<\/span><\/a>, sold under brand names like <\/span>Zithromax<\/span><\/a>, is a common antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections like ear infections, throat infections, and sinusitis. Though generally well-tolerated, some people may feel tired or sluggish after taking azithromycin, which is an uncommon side effect listed on its drug label. We\u2019ll break down how azithromycin works, how it might lead to fatigue, what you can do about it, and what your healthcare provider may consider if it\u2019s not the right fit.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Why does azithromycin make you tired?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Certain medications can make you tired, and antibiotics are no exception. However, fatigue is an uncommon side effect of azithromycin.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

According to the <\/span>drug’s prescribing information<\/span><\/a>, fewer than 1% of people report feeling tired while taking it. <\/span>Austin Shuxiao<\/span>, MD, internal medicine doctor and founder and medical director of PeachIV, shares, \u201cWhen rounding on patients who are receiving intravenous (IV) antibiotics in the hospital, I often hear patients describing their fatigue and weakness, sometimes to the point of not being able to get out of bed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The exact reason azithromycin may cause fatigue isn\u2019t fully understood, but it\u2019s likely due to a combination of factors. Azithromycin works by <\/span>stopping bacteria from growing<\/span><\/a>, allowing your immune system to clear an infection. However, while the drug targets bacteria, it can also have indirect effects on some people that leave them feeling drained. Some research suggests antibiotics like azithromycin <\/span>may affect blood cells<\/span><\/a> in ways that contribute to fatigue.<\/span><\/p>\n

In some people, azithromycin can cause abnormal liver function and liver inflammation (hepatitis), which could lead to more serious conditions like liver failure. <\/span>Drug-induced liver injury<\/span><\/a> can cause fatigue and tiredness, even if it\u2019s mild. There are no definitive risk factors for drug-induced liver injury, but pre-existing liver disease and genetic susceptibility can predispose some people.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re feeling unusually tired while taking azithromycin, it may be due to a combination of the medication, your body\u2019s inflammatory response, and the physical toll of fighting an infection. If the fatigue doesn\u2019t improve after you finish your course, it\u2019s a good idea to check in with your healthcare provider.<\/span><\/p>\n

How to combat fatigue from antibiotics<\/span><\/h2>\n

Recovering from an infection is hard work for your body, and even with effective antibiotic treatment like azithromycin, it\u2019s normal to feel tired. If fatigue sets in during your antibiotic course, the same supportive strategies that help you fight off an illness can also help restore your energy. Here are some tips to combat fatigue from antibiotics.<\/span><\/p>\n

Prioritize sleep and rest<\/span><\/h3>\n

Sleep and rest allow your body to heal. Taking the day off from work or school can help your body clear the infection and manage any side effects of your medications. \u201cIf they are experiencing fatigue, they should try to get rest and adequate sleep, and not overexert themselves while recovering. Feeling fatigued may just be a sign of their body\u2019s heightened metabolism while fighting off infection,\u201d Dr. Shuxiao says.<\/span><\/p>\n

Stay hydrated<\/span><\/h3>\n

Fatigue can be a <\/span>symptom of dehydration<\/span><\/a>. Fluids can help circulate byproducts of infection, but they can also help circulate medication and nutrients to support overall body functions. Drink water, tea, or soup throughout the day to stay hydrated, especially if you\u2019ve had a fever or have been sweating.<\/span><\/p>\n

Eat nourishing, balanced meals<\/span><\/h3>\n

Nutrient-rich foods provide the fuel your immune system needs to bounce back. <\/span>Vitamins and minerals can help your immune system function<\/span><\/a> better, and the best way to get them is through a healthy, balanced diet. Focus on meals with protein, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables to help your body recover and regain energy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Consider probiotics<\/span><\/h3>\n

Antibiotics like azithromycin can also <\/span>affect the balance of healthy gut bacteria<\/span><\/a>, which may contribute to feeling \u201coff\u201d or sluggish. A <\/span>probiotic supplement<\/span><\/a> or fermented foods (like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, or sauerkraut) may help your gut, especially if you\u2019re experiencing digestive issues alongside fatigue when taking azithromycin. <\/span>A 2023 review<\/span><\/a> found that healthy athletes who took probiotics for four weeks reported improved energy levels. In another study, people recovering from a viral infection saw <\/span>benefits in their energy levels<\/span><\/a> after six months of taking probiotics.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In most cases, these simple strategies can support your recovery and help restore your energy levels. If your fatigue is severe or not improving, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help determine whether it\u2019s a side effect of the medication or something else that needs separate medical attention.<\/span><\/p>\n

Other common azithromycin side effects\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

According to azithromycin\u2019s prescribing information, its most common side effect is diarrhea or loose stools, occurring in about 4%\u20135% of adults. Other common side effects of this drug include:<\/span><\/p>\n