Z-Pak carries increased risk of heart disease, study says - WSMV Channel 4
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A recent Vanderbilt University study now has the FDA taking note about the dangers of a popular antibiotic.
The Food and Drug Administration is warning patients about the drug Azithromycin. It's commonly sold under the name Zithromax in what's called a Z-Pak and is used to treat bacterial infections.
However, Vanderbilt researchers found an increased risk of death from heart disease in the first five days of using a Z-Pak when compared to other common antibiotics or no antibiotics.
The FDA said patients who have pre-existing heart problems or low blood levels of potassium or magnesium are at a higher risk.
Pfizer, which produces the drug, said the majority of patients using the antibiotic are not affected.
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