Zithromax Lawsuit

Side effects of Zithromax, which is also known as Z-Pak or generic azithromycin, has been linked to an increased risk of heart-related death and abnormal heart rhythms, leading to question about the safety of the popular antibiotic. 

STATUS OF ZITHROMAX Z-PAK LAWSUITS: Product liability lawyers are evaluating the potential for Zithromax lawsuits on behalf of individuals who have died as a result of abnormal heart rhythms or other heart problems after using the medication.

MANUFACTURER: Pfizer, Inc., but also available as generic azithromycin.

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OVERVIEW: Zithromax (azithromycin) was first approved in the U.S. by the FDA in 1991. It is a commonly used antibiotic for treatment of respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, tonsillitis and other bacterial infections. The medication generated sales of more than $450 million for Pfizer in 2011, and is available as a generic.

The antibiotic is part of a class of antibacterial medications known as macrolides, which have been known to cause abnormal heart rhythm problems and Zithromax may increase the risk of fatal heart problems compared to other antibiotics.

ZITHROMAX Z-PAK HEART SIDE EFFECTS: In 2011, the FDA reviewed Zithromax and other macrolides for links to abnormal heart rhythms, including QT interval prolongation. The alterations in heart rhythm can lead to a fatal condition known as torsades de pointes.

Following the FDA investigation, the Zithromax warning was updated, along with all macrolides, to indicate that patients and doctors should be aware of potential heart rhythm problems.

In May 2012, a study was published in the New England Journal of Medicine, which evaluated records involving more than 347,000 patients who took Zithromax or a generic equivalent, 1.4 million who took no antibiotics, 1.3 million who took amoxicillin, 264,000 who took Cipro and 264,000 given Levaquin.

Researchers found that Zithromax side effects may increase the risk of death, with 2.5 times as many patients dying from heart problems during the five days of treatment than while taking amoxicillin.

Although the absolute increase in cardovascular death from Zithromax was small, it was most prominent among individuals with a risk of cardiovascular disease. According to the study, there are 47 more deaths for every million people who took Zithromax over amoxicillin, but that number jumps to more than 245 deaths among those at risk for heart problems.

Some experts have indicated that Zithromax Z-Pak should not be given to patients already known to have heart problems.

Following the May 2012 study in the New England Journal of Medicine, the FDA initiated a review of the potential Zithromax heart risks.

According to a safety communication provided in March 2013, the FDA determined that the Zithromax warning label will be updated to provide additional information regarding the risk of QT interval prolongation and torsades de pointes. The agency cautioned that individuals prescribed a Z-Pak or azithromycin therapy should not stop taking their medication without first speaking with their doctor.

FIND OUT IF YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR A ZITHROMAX LAWSUIT: As a result of the drug makers’ possible failure to adequately warn about the risks associated with their medication, Zithromax lawyers are evaluating whether users may be entitled to compensation through a product liability lawsuit.

>>SUBMIT INFO FOR REVIEW BY A ZITHROMAX LAWYER<<

30 Comments

  • StephenAugust 3, 2019 at 9:45 am

    My father was prescribed azithromycin because of a tick bite in an attempt to stop him from developing Lyme disease in case the tick carried the disease. He ended up in the hospital within the first three days of starting the antibiotics due to symptoms of a heart attack he developed high fever blood pressure out of çontrol kidneys inflamed upper respiratory infection he was sedated and put on a r[Show More]My father was prescribed azithromycin because of a tick bite in an attempt to stop him from developing Lyme disease in case the tick carried the disease. He ended up in the hospital within the first three days of starting the antibiotics due to symptoms of a heart attack he developed high fever blood pressure out of çontrol kidneys inflamed upper respiratory infection he was sedated and put on a respirator because he wasn't breathing properly on his own and then put on a feeding tube he was like this for around 40 days until his heart eventually stopped completely and he died on July 28 2019 at only 63 years old because of an "unknown illness". A whole team of drs tried to save him for over a month they were informed he was given an antibiotic as a precaution for the tick he had and was prescribed azithromycin before the results of his blood work even came back when they did come back he was negative for any types of lyme disease. My father was a truely amazing man he has 6 grand children who he was very close with my son is only 9 months old and will not get to remember my father him and my mother have been together for 50 years since they had my oldest sister at age 16. My father not only died but he took a piece of all of us with him my neices and nephews are all devistated over what has happened. when it was time to leave the funeral service and viewing my niece 5 years old asked if we could stay with papa longer and then looked at me and said uncle stephen do you think maybe God will let us have papa back one day. My father suffered because of medicine he was told will help him. He was robbed of prescious years of life my whole family is still being cheated to this day knowing he could still be here. Azithromycin should be taken off the market and banned. After it was found to be the cause of even one death that certain people may lose their life by taking it how can it not be illegal to sell at that moment. That's like allowing drs to give random people shots of insulin to test for diabetes or something if the person has diabetes the insulin will help if they don't they'll most likely die from the shot. That's the same thing as giving random people azithromycin knowing that without a doubt people will die from it that's the same as murdering people to me I'm sorry idk how this can be legal in any way

  • JoshuaJanuary 16, 2019 at 1:16 am

    I had a heart murmur was given zithromax and now have a type of afib

  • AprilFebruary 19, 2018 at 8:15 am

    Wow!!! This is so shocking!!! My brother died 10/29/2016. He had an upper respiratory infection and was given a zpack. I talked to him for an hour that morning. And about 6pm, he was gone. So hurtful because he walked from his carport, through the kitchen, and to his sofa. He said his heart was fluttering. He thought it was from the respiratory infection. In less than 5 minutes of walking in the [Show More]Wow!!! This is so shocking!!! My brother died 10/29/2016. He had an upper respiratory infection and was given a zpack. I talked to him for an hour that morning. And about 6pm, he was gone. So hurtful because he walked from his carport, through the kitchen, and to his sofa. He said his heart was fluttering. He thought it was from the respiratory infection. In less than 5 minutes of walking in the house, he was gone. And I am reading this. Why is it even still on the market? I'm not trying to do a lawsuit as I'm sure the limitation time has expired but I'm am livid!!! This could have had a different outcome if this drug was not on the market. My brother could possibly still be alive. Really!!!!

  • WinterJanuary 19, 2017 at 7:39 pm

    My very healthy, active friend just passed away two days ago. He was 67. All members of his family have all lived over the age of 80. His wife informed he that he had just finished a Z-pack so I started to look further into it. I'm 1,000% sure that Z-pack KILLED my friend!

  • LawrenceDecember 15, 2016 at 3:04 am

    On July 16th of this year I went into cardiac arrest within two hours of taking azithromycin. Luckily my wife heard me collapse. 15 minutes of CPR, 7 zaps with an AED machine and 14 days in the hospital. My condolences to all those in the comments above who were not as lucky as I was. I cannot believe how common this is - how can the FDA let this continue?

  • RosemarySeptember 23, 2016 at 7:20 pm

    My daughter took Azithromycin and she had dangerous side effects including hallucinations, memory loss, lethargic, uncontrollable laughing and crying. I feel that this medicine was either tainted with medical marijuana since an ingredient was creme caramel and when I looked it up it showed medical marijuana. It could have also been misbranded. I tried numerous lawyers but they refuse the case d[Show More]My daughter took Azithromycin and she had dangerous side effects including hallucinations, memory loss, lethargic, uncontrollable laughing and crying. I feel that this medicine was either tainted with medical marijuana since an ingredient was creme caramel and when I looked it up it showed medical marijuana. It could have also been misbranded. I tried numerous lawyers but they refuse the case due to low value. I want JUSTICE FOR MY DAUGHTER. She was in the emergency room 4 times and hospitalized 7 days.

  • JeanineMay 18, 2016 at 11:16 pm

    I am on here againbecause I just had a cardio ablation to correct the afib Ive dealt with for 3 years after taking zpak. I am going to find a lawyer to sue these people please advise.

  • JenniferFebruary 27, 2016 at 4:11 pm

    Father, 67, (was walking, coherent, completely normal) and treating physician prescribed generic Azithromycin, took first 2 tablets, died within 2 hours. Paramedics were able to track a "heart event" of some sort on their equipment. Afterwards, treating physician called our family to say "I didn't think he was THAT sick". Well, dumbass, he WASN'T! You prescribed this medication to a man with Afib [Show More]Father, 67, (was walking, coherent, completely normal) and treating physician prescribed generic Azithromycin, took first 2 tablets, died within 2 hours. Paramedics were able to track a "heart event" of some sort on their equipment. Afterwards, treating physician called our family to say "I didn't think he was THAT sick". Well, dumbass, he WASN'T! You prescribed this medication to a man with Afib on a heart medication known by the FDA to be causing sudden cardiac death. I am so disgusted in the FDA, this physician and the manufacturers of this drug. People are DYING. Your time will come when you are faced with a major class action lawsuit.

  • JeanineJanuary 6, 2016 at 12:30 pm

    I was given zpak for a stubborn sinus/bonch in 2013. After which I was in an out of the er for heart palps and gastro problems. I was reluctant to take the zpak due to the fact that it didnt work as well as agmentin . Should have listened to myself instead of the dr " we've got to get you well and back to work" I was a teacher. So... Due to my condition I had to retire early lost tons of money by [Show More]I was given zpak for a stubborn sinus/bonch in 2013. After which I was in an out of the er for heart palps and gastro problems. I was reluctant to take the zpak due to the fact that it didnt work as well as agmentin . Should have listened to myself instead of the dr " we've got to get you well and back to work" I was a teacher. So... Due to my condition I had to retire early lost tons of money by being out of work for 6 months as well. But more importNtly I lost my health. I never gad heart problems begore this drug. As a matter of fact my heart is healthy except for the afib!! I want help in sueing this dr and pfizer! My history said my parents both had heart problems. If anyone has gotten legal help to sue these b-/:;(ds please contact me.

  • MaryOctober 16, 2015 at 8:53 am

    ER twice and arithmia caused from in zpak. Never had heart issues before. Was put on beta blockers. Extra heartbeats and arithmia. Did not notice symptims till day 3 of antibiotic. Never again will I take this stuff. Seeing cardiologist today. Stiooed taking antibiotic 4 days ago and no imorovement.

  • RenaeSeptember 25, 2015 at 8:51 am

    I just took the zpack on the 15,th of this month my tongue blistered and I can't eat or drink anything. I took pictures should I contact a lawyer

  • OttieJune 25, 2014 at 7:22 pm

    I was prescribed azithromycin the generic form of z pak in April 2013, for bronchitis. Was diagnosed with irregular heart rhythm and congestive heart failure. When my doctor told me she was prescribing the medicine for me I questioned her about it, because I saw on the news about the dangers associated with the drug, and she assured me that it would be ok for me to take it. I am diabetic and hav[Show More]I was prescribed azithromycin the generic form of z pak in April 2013, for bronchitis. Was diagnosed with irregular heart rhythm and congestive heart failure. When my doctor told me she was prescribing the medicine for me I questioned her about it, because I saw on the news about the dangers associated with the drug, and she assured me that it would be ok for me to take it. I am diabetic and have hypertension but I have never had heart problems until I took the z pak. My life has been put in worse danger sense taking this drug and trusting in my doctor, that it was alright for me to take. I can't even file a law suit because a stupid law was passed where the generic manufactors are not held responsible. My life is just as important as the people who took the brand name z pak and are able to sue. It's just wrong and this law need to change!!! Any suggestions please post.

  • LynneApril 19, 2014 at 11:38 pm

    My husband died 2 days after he was given Z-pack for bronchitis. He was 37 years old. I just spoke with a lawyer but they are not interested in taking the case because the cause of death was heart disease related to an occlusion, not arrhythmia. He died a few months before the FDA made the announcement. I feel like the autopsy report would have read differently had they been aware of this side-[Show More]My husband died 2 days after he was given Z-pack for bronchitis. He was 37 years old. I just spoke with a lawyer but they are not interested in taking the case because the cause of death was heart disease related to an occlusion, not arrhythmia. He died a few months before the FDA made the announcement. I feel like the autopsy report would have read differently had they been aware of this side-effect.

  • garryJune 26, 2013 at 10:47 pm

    the doctor knew I had a irregular hart beat befor giving me azithromycin. it was givin for the ammonia I had. but that is not the problem. I have had diarrhea for 2 months now after taking azithromycin-or z pak. i have had 3 blood samples, 2 stool samples, a complete upper and lower GI. every thing comes back negative. diphen tabs from two different sets of doctors. have tried probiotic tabs. seen[Show More]the doctor knew I had a irregular hart beat befor giving me azithromycin. it was givin for the ammonia I had. but that is not the problem. I have had diarrhea for 2 months now after taking azithromycin-or z pak. i have had 3 blood samples, 2 stool samples, a complete upper and lower GI. every thing comes back negative. diphen tabs from two different sets of doctors. have tried probiotic tabs. seen by 3 doctors and no one can tell me why I still have very very bad diarrhea 5 times a day witch I did not have prier to taking the z pak. if you eat it comes right back out in 15 min. as a watery liquid. if your in my way I will knock you down to get to the toilet. its that bad. the azithromycin has done something to me and no one knows what or why! feels like pac man is living in side me LOL. I eat and it comes right back out.

  • britniMay 8, 2013 at 12:45 pm

    i was perscribed this when j was pegnant and my baby girl only lived nine short hours after she was born... never got to hold her or anything...

  • ElizabethApril 25, 2013 at 6:07 pm

    My 60 year old husband took z pak for bronchitis and passed away 5 to 7 hours later in his sleep. I am devastated ! He took it on feb 7 2013 and the strong warnings came out in march 2013. 1 month too late. Autopsy showed he did have the beginning of heart disease

  • KristinaApril 20, 2013 at 10:19 pm

    Just diagnosed with "lazy" heart condition; cardio doesn't know what caused my heart function to tank suddenly. My recent echo was much worse than first echo in the fall. He doesn't know I took Z-pac over the winter. I had leaking mitral valve but it wasn't anything major.

  • KenApril 20, 2013 at 4:35 pm

    Was prescribed back to back RX's for Z-Pacs for a bad sinus infection and Bronchitis issues. Except for these issues, I was in perfect health and not on any medications for several years. I took them not knowing people were dying taking them until I heard about it recently on the Nightly News and stopped taking it immediately that night because of the news warning. I got a stroke, am blinde[Show More]Was prescribed back to back RX's for Z-Pacs for a bad sinus infection and Bronchitis issues. Except for these issues, I was in perfect health and not on any medications for several years. I took them not knowing people were dying taking them until I heard about it recently on the Nightly News and stopped taking it immediately that night because of the news warning. I got a stroke, am blinded in one eye and blurred vision in my other, have heart issues and stomach pain and gastrointestinal problems I never had before. I constantly repeat myself and have memory "brain fog" most mornings and it takes until the later afternoon to start to focus mentally. From what I've been reading, doing research on this medication, even with my health as it is now because of this, I guess I'm still one of the lucky ones compared to those that had died from taking it. DON'T EVER TAKE THIS MEDICATION!!!! It's obvious from other comments that it does kill!!

  • PhyllisApril 10, 2013 at 1:21 am

    My mom was prescribed a zpac for a sinus infection. The next day she had a severe stroke and is now paralyzed on her right side. They say the stoke was caused from an irregular heartbeat that caused a blood clot to form and went to the brain. She has never had an irregular heartbeat or had any other heart problems.

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  • DennisApril 3, 2013 at 5:01 am

    My wife passed away in Jan. 21 , 2013 she was given Z Pack for Resp. Infection . She hade heart problems they gave her Z pack on the 12 on the 15 th i hade to call an amblance her heart stoped 2 times on the way to hosp. and 1 in the emerc. room . She was on life support for 6 days then see passed.

  • MichaelMarch 17, 2013 at 2:35 am

    Went to the ER not feeling well in November 2012 and was diagnosed with flu and bronchitis and was given a z Pak then I noticed my heart racing from time to time went back to the ER cause I was out of town and not feeling any better and was given a second z Pak and now I have been in and out of hospitals and ER with A-FIB and still don\'t have it under control and haven\'t been able to work sinc[Show More]Went to the ER not feeling well in November 2012 and was diagnosed with flu and bronchitis and was given a z Pak then I noticed my heart racing from time to time went back to the ER cause I was out of town and not feeling any better and was given a second z Pak and now I have been in and out of hospitals and ER with A-FIB and still don\'t have it under control and haven\'t been able to work since December!!!!

  • Growing AngreyMarch 15, 2013 at 3:47 pm

    A little over a year ago, my uncle (mother's brother) died after being given a Z-Pak. Two weeks ago, my mother died within five hours of receiving the meds. This is nuts. They were both way too young. This week the news is exploding with information about this. Someone needs to stop this...

  • BeckyMarch 11, 2013 at 11:20 pm

    March 2012, had the flu that turned into bronchitis. Went to the doctor in April to get a pre op check up and it was discovered my heart was in A-fib (was hospitalized that day and spent 5 days on the cardio care unit) Never had any prior heart problems - was see by the doctors prior to the prescib and no one had ever heard an abbormal heart beat. Surgery I had in the 3 months prior never found[Show More]March 2012, had the flu that turned into bronchitis. Went to the doctor in April to get a pre op check up and it was discovered my heart was in A-fib (was hospitalized that day and spent 5 days on the cardio care unit) Never had any prior heart problems - was see by the doctors prior to the prescib and no one had ever heard an abbormal heart beat. Surgery I had in the 3 months prior never found a heart problem. It came out of "left field" and now I am on 6 different meds to regulate my A-fib. Had cardio-conversion that didn't take. I was healthy and happy till that Z-pak changed my health for the worse. Now I am facing health issues - simple things like having dental work is now complcated because of all the meds I am on. My health will never be the same!

  • RussDecember 26, 2012 at 1:36 am

    Six months ago I was prescribed Azithromycin for bad cough and viral infection, since then I started having chest pain and high blood pressure, I ignored till now as had no medical insurance. last month I signed up for one and went to a doctor coz i couldn't function. My blood report showed a bit of high cholesterol, but blood pressure was high up to the sky. So My primary physician sent me to a h[Show More]Six months ago I was prescribed Azithromycin for bad cough and viral infection, since then I started having chest pain and high blood pressure, I ignored till now as had no medical insurance. last month I signed up for one and went to a doctor coz i couldn't function. My blood report showed a bit of high cholesterol, but blood pressure was high up to the sky. So My primary physician sent me to a heart specialist, I had no idea why he did so until the cardiologist said I do have some heart issues but cant do any stress test coz of very high blood pressure. Right now I am on medication to control my BP, it has been a week so far. Next week I have a Nuclear stress test. Wish me luck

  • Grieving MomJune 20, 2012 at 3:12 pm

    My daughter had heart disease. She was prescribed Z-Pack for upper respiratory cold like symptoms. She died the next morning. She was 25 years old.

  • JerryJune 13, 2012 at 8:50 pm

    I had taken ZPak several times prescribed by my physician and I had an irregular heart beat and then I was put on Lanoxin, then switched to Digetek and told I had a heart murmur and had never had one before In July 2010, I had to have my aortic valve and root replaced and 2 aneuryzms fixed and 1 by- pass. I have done pretty good so far now my knees hurt me so bad and I have no energy, and I too[Show More]I had taken ZPak several times prescribed by my physician and I had an irregular heart beat and then I was put on Lanoxin, then switched to Digetek and told I had a heart murmur and had never had one before In July 2010, I had to have my aortic valve and root replaced and 2 aneuryzms fixed and 1 by- pass. I have done pretty good so far now my knees hurt me so bad and I have no energy, and I took the generic Zithromax several months ago. Mt legs started swelling and I have gained weight like crazy. I have no idea if the Z Pak had anything to do with this or not , but I also took DoxapapN100 a generic brand of darvocette or Darvon also for quite a while. I would like some information. Thank you, Jerry L. Pratt..309 Mohawk street... Morristown Tn 37813...423-581-2426. I still hav

  • ADAMJune 4, 2012 at 6:48 pm

    This drug was prescribed to me when I thought I had the flu in Feb of 2011. Over the next 5 months I was in and out of emergency rooms. That drug changed my life for the worse. I had all kinds of heart problems and it started the day I took the drug. It has been over a year later and I still have complications. I am so glad to hear that this drug is finally becoming more exposed because I ver[Show More]This drug was prescribed to me when I thought I had the flu in Feb of 2011. Over the next 5 months I was in and out of emergency rooms. That drug changed my life for the worse. I had all kinds of heart problems and it started the day I took the drug. It has been over a year later and I still have complications. I am so glad to hear that this drug is finally becoming more exposed because I very much think that I damage I have received might stay with me for the rest of my life and I am only 33 years old. I had all of the symptoms as the other two posted above me. Hang in there Diana I thought I was going to die too for five months. I didn't but it was scary as hell.

  • E'TriganMay 24, 2012 at 2:14 pm

    After taking Z-pak in March 2012, I had emergency room episode in May with arterial Flutter. Corrected with “cardioversion” and I was subsequently diagnosed with congestive heart failure.

  • DianaMay 18, 2012 at 9:09 pm

    I haven't died yet, but after taking this drug, I have been diagnosed with A-Fib, irregular heart beat, CHF, and Hypertension

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