Aswad

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Aswad

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Roxithromycin
Form Film-coated tablet, Oral suspension
Pharmacological class Macrolide antibiotic
General purpose Fights bacterial infections
Origin Semi-synthetic (Erythromycin derivative)

What Type of Drug is Aswad (Roxithromycin)?

Aswad is a prescription-only medicine whose active substance, Roxithromycin, is classified as a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic, belonging to a major class of drugs used globally to combat infections. The compound is a derivative of Erythromycin A, developed through structural modification to enhance its stability and improve its oral absorption profile compared to its older progenitor. This modification ensures the drug is efficiently taken up by the body when administered orally. The semi-synthetic origin places Roxithromycin alongside other effective macrolides, providing a therapeutic option against a broad range of susceptible micro-organisms. Its efficacy in treating bacterial infections is clinically recognized.

Composition and Pharmaceutical Form

The medicine is a single-ingredient product where the core chemical entity is Roxithromycin (C41H76N2O15), strictly formulated for oral administration. Aswad is typically supplied as a film-coated tablet, a solid dosage form, but is also available as an oral suspension (liquid form) for patients who may have difficulty swallowing tablets, such as children. Aswad is a specific brand name that delivers this formulation, distinguishing it from other commercial products containing Roxithromycin.

General Purpose: How It Fights Bacteria

The fundamental purpose of Aswad is to control and clear bacterial infections caused by susceptible pathogens. Roxithromycin achieves this by interfering directly with the bacteria's ability to live and reproduce. The molecule selectively inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by targeting the 50S ribosomal subunit. This highly specific action stops the bacteria from multiplying and spreading. By halting the progression of the infection—for example, a susceptible respiratory tract infection—the medicine allows the body’s own immune system to successfully resolve the associated health problem.

What side effects are possible with Aswad?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for Aswad (Roxithromycin) is based on regulatory documentation that categorizes potential adverse reactions by frequency and affected body system. These classifications distinguish between common and less frequently reported effects, ensuring a clear description of the medicine’s risk profile.

Frequency and System-Organ Classes

The most common adverse reactions listed in regulatory documents are generally Gastrointestinal Disorders, including nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, diarrhoea, and loss of appetite (anorexia). Nervous System effects such as headache and dizziness are also commonly reported. Less common reactions include allergic responses like angioedema and skin issues such as urticaria, as well as temporary hypoacusis or vertigo.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

Official labels detail serious, though rare, safety concerns. These Serious Adverse Reactions include significant Cardiac Disorders such as QT prolongation and Torsade de pointes (a type of ventricular arrhythmia), and severe allergic reactions like Anaphylaxis. Severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), are also documented. Furthermore, like other antibiotics, Roxithromycin is associated with the risk of Antibiotic-associated Pseudomembranous Colitis (CDAD), which may occur even after treatment is stopped.

Population-Specific Limitations

The safety profile includes restrictions for specific populations. Aswad is generally contraindicated in patients with severely impaired hepatic function. Caution is advised for individuals with pre-existing conditions that predispose them to QT interval prolongation or those with a history of Myasthenia Gravis, as macrolides may aggravate muscle weakness. Its use is strictly restricted with certain co-administered drugs, such as ergot alkaloids, due to the risk of severe vasoconstriction.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose Map: Overdose and when to seek help — Official Regulatory Information for Aswad

Overdose Scope

Element Official Regulatory Description
Documented overdose presentations Overdose is expected to present as an exacerbation of gastrointestinal effects, including severe Nausea, Vomiting, Epigastric pain, and Diarrhea.
Physiological systems affected The most serious documented risks affect the Cardiovascular system, involving QT interval prolongation, Ventricular arrhythmias, and Torsades de pointes (a form of ventricular tachycardia) at supra-therapeutic concentrations.
Emergency-response statements Regulatory guidance mandates that patients seek immediate medical attention following any suspected overdose. This action is required even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.

Overdose Classifications (High-Level)

Element Official Regulatory Description
Severity classification The profile includes documentation of potentially life-threatening outcomes due to cardiac risk.
Supportive measures Treatment is designated as symptomatic and supportive care. This may include gastric lavage and mandatory ECG monitoring. No specific antidote is known.

Resulting Overdose Structure

Official overdose statements:

  • The most concerning regulatory finding is the potential for serious cardiac events associated with supra-therapeutic exposure.
  • The mandated response is to seek immediate medical help, and contact emergency services or a poison control center immediately.
  • Management includes symptomatic and supportive care alongside ECG monitoring due to the risk of arrhythmias.

Connection to the overall overdose profile:

Government regulatory documents define the Aswad overdose profile primarily by the risk of life-threatening cardiac complications and the expected exacerbation of common gastrointestinal symptoms. The lack of a specific known antidote and the documented cardiac risks necessitate immediate professional medical assessment and the implementation of supportive clinical management.

Therapeutic Uses of Aswad

What Aswad Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The therapeutic value of Aswad (Roxithromycin) is centered on its capacity to support the management of susceptible bacterial manifestations and contribute to improved comfort across several key areas. This medication is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes, including bacterial infections of the upper and lower respiratory tract (such as tonsillitis and acute bronchitis), skin and soft tissues (like impetigo and cellulitis), and specific urogenital infections (such as non-gonococcal urethritis). This macrolide is utilized in clinical settings where symptoms are driven by susceptible bacteria.

Aswad is relevant for managing symptom clusters like fever, soreness, and localized swelling, which may help patients cope more steadily with acute infectious states.

“This medicine is commonly used when short-term symptomatic assistance is needed in contexts involving heightened systemic burden.”

The core therapeutic benefit generally involves resolution of the infectious state, which assists with maintaining functional stability and supports a return to improved day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods.

Quick Fact: Relief for Acute Infections
Symptom Domains Addressed Symptoms related to systemic imbalance, physical discomfort, and inflammatory states.
Primary Clinical Context Applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns.
Patient Benefit Provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden during symptomatic periods.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Aswad?

Eligibility for Aswad (Roxithromycin) is determined by official regulatory documentation, defining specific groups who must not use the medicine and others who require conditional use.


Contraindicated Populations

Aswad is strictly contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Roxithromycin or any other macrolide antibiotic. Use is also prohibited for individuals with severely impaired hepatic function or those with congenital or acquired long QT syndrome.


Age and Physiological Restrictions

Population Group Eligibility Status
Adults and Elderly Use is permitted; no dosage adjustment is required in the elderly or those with renal impairment.
Pediatric Patients Tablets are generally not recommended for children under 40 kg or under 6 months of age.
Pregnancy/Lactation Not recommended for use in pregnancy unless clearly indicated. Use during lactation should be only when clearly indicated.

Conditional Use

Use of Aswad requires caution in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment or those with underlying conditions that may predispose them to QT prolongation, such as bradycardia or uncorrected hypokalemia. The medicine may also have the potential to aggravate muscle weakness in patients with Myasthenia Gravis.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Aswad (Roxithromycin) has several officially documented interactions that result in mandatory restrictions or required monitoring, primarily concerning changes in the systemic exposure of co-administered drugs or additive pharmacodynamic risk.

Interaction Classifications

Classification Restricted Combination/Requirement
Contraindicated Combinations Ergot Alkaloids (e.g., Ergotamine, Dihydroergotamine), Astemizole, Cisapride, Pimozide, and Terfenadine.
Exposure Monitoring Required Vitamin K Antagonists (e.g., Warfarin), Digoxin, Theophylline, Disopyramide, and Cyclosporin.

Co-administration with vasoconstrictor Ergot Alkaloids is strictly contraindicated due to the reported risk of severe vasoconstriction, known as ergotism. The combination with Astemizole, Cisapride, Pimozide, and Terfenadine is also contraindicated due to the documented risk of QT interval prolongation and serious cardiac arrhythmias.

Roxithromycin may cause an increase in the absorption of Digoxin, and its use with Warfarin has been associated with increases in the International Normalized Ratio (INR); therefore, regulatory documents require close monitoring of INR during combined treatment. Caution is specified for concurrent use with Class IA and Class III Antiarrhythmic Agents due to the potential for additive cardiovascular effects. The interaction potential is heightened in patients with severely impaired hepatic function due to reduced drug clearance.

Mechanism of Action

Aswad (Roxithromycin) operates through a dual mechanistic profile. Its primary action is antimicrobial, targeting the bacterial cell's core machinery. The molecule acts as an inhibitor by binding with high affinity to the 23S ribosomal RNA in the 50S ribosomal subunit. This binding physically blocks the Nascent Peptide Exit Tunnel, thereby arresting the synthesis of essential proteins. The physiological consequence of this molecular blockade is the cessation of polypeptide elongation and bacterial growth.

A secondary action involves the modulation of host inflammatory cascades. The molecule accumulates in host immune cells, where it suppresses the intracellular signaling that governs immune activation. This leads to a reduced release of proinflammatory mediators and a decrease in the local concentration of inflammatory cells and mediators. Mechanistic function is constrained, however, by bacterial counter-mechanisms like ribosomal target site modification and the expression of active efflux pumps, which prevent the drug from binding or accumulating at its target site.

Dosage and Administration Information

Administration Guidelines for Aswad

This section outlines the standardized administration protocol for the drug Aswad. It describes the requirements for use.


Administration Scope

Instruction Area Administration Requirement
Route of Administration Oral (as a tablet)
Dosing Schedule Once or twice daily, or as specified by the physician’s written protocol. The instructions emphasize the need for a sufficient time gap between doses to maintain drug efficacy and prevent resistance.
Timing in Relation to Meals Specific instructions for timing are paramount for oral administration. The medicine should be taken 1 to 2 hours after meals or, alternatively, before bedtime.
Preparation Requirements None specifically stated for the standard tablet form. The medicine is to be swallowed whole with water.
Age-Group Rules Dosing adjustments may be required for specific populations, particularly the elderly or those with impaired liver function, and must be determined by a healthcare provider.
Missed-Dose Rules If a dose is missed, take it as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped to avoid double dosing. The interval between doses must be maintained.

Instruction Classifications

Classification Detail
Administration Method Type Oral (Systemic absorption)
Frequency Pattern Scheduled daily or multi-day regimen, not 'as-needed'
Standard Protocol Based on standardized procedures for prescription medicines.
Use-Context Constraints Administration timing is constrained by the need to avoid drug-food interactions for optimal systemic absorption and therapeutic concentration.

Procedural Structure

The instructions structure the use of Aswad to ensure proper systemic delivery and maintain consistent therapeutic levels, which is crucial for the medication's intended effect. The primary steps are:

  • Step 1: Verify the prescribed dosage and administration frequency.
  • Step 2: Administer the tablet by mouth (oral route) with water.
  • Step 3: Ensure the dose is taken either 1–2 hours after a meal or before bedtime.
  • Step 4: Adhere strictly to the required time interval between doses to prevent underdosing or potential accumulation.

These instructions define the standardized approach to administering Aswad to maximize its intended effect while minimizing risks associated with improper use.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Aswad (Roxithromycin)


Evidence for Infections of the Respiratory Tract (Upper and Lower)

Research exploring the use of Aswad was studied for both upper (like tonsillitis) and lower (like acute bronchitis) respiratory infections, and includes numerous short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and Comparative Trials. These studies focused on examining the drug's profile over the short duration used in research exploring how symptoms change over time. Researchers monitored outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance and the rate at which susceptible bacteria were cleared from the infected site.

Findings reported in these studies described patterns observed in the studies that contribute to the broader evidence landscape. The research suggests that Aswad has been a part of the evidence landscape for these conditions for a significant period, and the data contributes to understanding symptom patterns.

However, the evidence is primarily derived from studies focused on short-term changes. Long-term outcomes, such as the incidence of recurring infection months after treatment, are not consistently tracked across the full body of available research. While data show patterns related to short-term clearance, the evidence base includes older trials, meaning comparative evidence is lacking against the most newly approved antibiotics.


Evidence for Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

Research has examined the medicine's role relevant in trials assessing short-term or episodic symptom patterns for common skin and soft tissue bacterial infections (SSTIs), and includes clinical trials and regulatory drug monographs. Research examined outcomes related to outcomes linked to inflammatory or irritative states and infection signs. These studies typically involved adults presenting with typical, non-complicated infections.

Reported findings described the patterns observed in the studies related to outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance following a short treatment period. This research provides context for how the medicine was observed in a short-term setting. The evidence contributes to understanding the patterns of symptom evolution over defined time intervals.

What remains uncertain is the applicability of this evidence to all patient groups. Comparative evidence is lacking in large, recent head-to-head RCTs against current standard treatments for SSTIs. Furthermore, data for complex or severe SSTIs or those in patients with existing complex medical conditions remain insufficient.


Evidence for Specific Urogenital Infections

Research has explored the medicine's role in conditions involving periods of heightened symptoms (such as specific urogenital bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms). The available evidence, often found in older regulatory submissions and clinical trial reports, focused on two main outcome measures: bacteriological eradication (whether the organism was fully cleared) and clinical cure rates assessed at the end of the antibiotic course. These studies typically included adult populations.

The research describes patterns of bacteriological clearance and short-term clinical outcomes documented in the specific adult populations observed. These findings research highlights changes measured during the study period against certain susceptible pathogens.

A key limitation is that much of the available evidence comes from older trials. This means that recent comparative data using modern methodology or newer alternative treatments is not fully established or publicly accessible. Long-term follow-up regarding the rate of infection recurrence in this specific group is not fully established.


Long-Term Data and Follow-up in Clinical Research

The majority of studies conducted on Aswad, like most antibiotics, are designed to monitor research exploring short-term symptom changes that occur immediately during and just after the treatment course. These follow-up durations were limited, usually only assessing the patient within the first 1–4 weeks following the final dose to confirm acute clinical or bacteriological outcomes.

This means that the evidence derived from the main indication studies provides limited information for long-term outcomes. Research into the drug's role in research contexts involving fluctuating or unstable symptoms (such as studies exploring anti-inflammatory effects in severe lung disease) has occurred, but these are often exploratory or pilot studies. The findings from these longer-term research scenarios were mixed and certainty remains low for sustained functional changes or long-term symptom management.

Studies in Specific Patient Groups

Aswad was evaluated in specific age groups to understand its short-term clinical profile outside of the general adult population. Research has studied the medicine's role in children for various approved infections, often using the oral suspension form. These studies were designed to monitor short-term symptom patterns and contribute to the broader evidence landscape for pediatric care settings. Similarly, evidence was observed in trials that included older adults, often as a subgroup analysis, to provide context related to this specific population.

However, subgroup findings are uncertain when it comes to patients with multiple pre-existing medical conditions or those with immune-compromising conditions, as these complex individuals are frequently excluded from initial clinical trials. This means that data for these specific groups data are still emerging and were not the primary focus of the large-scale studies observing responses over defined time intervals.


What Research Gaps and Uncertainties Remain

The research base for Aswad provides context for its short-term use against susceptible infections, but a number of research gaps and limitations exist. Comparative evidence is lacking in large, recent head-to-head trials against the newest classes of antibiotics now available. Furthermore, the evidence quality varies across studies, with older reports sometimes lacking the rigorous methodology expected of current RCTs.

As noted, there is limited information for long-term outcomes or the durability of the initial response beyond the immediate post-treatment follow-up. This research primarily research explored short-term symptom changes and research does not determine whether an individual will respond similarly. Findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes, and should be viewed as contributing to the broader evidence landscape.

Key Studies & References

  1. Clinical efficacy of roxithromycin in the treatment of adults with upper and lower respiratory tract infection due to Haemophilus influenzae

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Aswad (FAQ)

Q: Is Aswad considered a long-term treatment or is it for short-term use?

Official regulatory information indicates that this medicine is typically used for the short-term treatment of acute bacterial infections. Treatment courses generally last between 5 and 10 days, depending on the specific infection being addressed. The duration of use is generally not intended to exceed ten days.

Q: Does Aswad cause weight gain or changes in appetite?

Loss of appetite, which is officially described as anorexia, is documented in product information as a possible gastrointestinal side effect of this medicine. However, official regulatory documents do not specifically mention weight gain or generalized weight loss as a commonly reported adverse reaction.

Q: Is Aswad a generic medicine, or is a generic version expected soon?

Aswad is a brand name for the active ingredient, Roxithromycin. Roxithromycin itself is the generic substance and is widely available under various brand names in many countries.

Q: How does Aswad work differently compared to other medicines for the same condition?

Aswad is classified as a macrolide antibiotic. Its mechanism of action involves binding to the bacteria's 50S ribosomal subunit, which physically blocks the bacteria from creating the proteins necessary for growth and reproduction. This highly specific action is what classifies it within the macrolide group.

Q: Is Aswad regulated by major bodies like the FDA or EMA?

The active ingredient of this medicine is an approved product regulated by major international health authorities. The official documentation and regulatory protocols align with standards set by bodies such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Q: Why do some users report that Aswad causes drowsiness or fatigue?

Official product information reports central nervous system effects such as dizziness and headache. Official documents indicate that caution is advised regarding driving or operating heavy machinery if these effects are experienced.

Q: What is the maximum dose or duration of treatment described in the product labeling?

The maximum daily dosage specified in product labeling is generally defined by the regulatory authority. This specified dosage limit is taken in a fixed regimen, typically once or twice daily, and the total duration of the course falls between 5 and 10 days.

Q: Is it normal to feel a specific sensation when starting Aswad?

Many of the common side effects, such as nausea, abdominal discomfort, headache, or dizziness, may be experienced when a patient first begins taking this medicine. These effects are generally classified as common or expected.

Q: Does the effectiveness of Aswad wear off over many months or years of use?

Official regulatory information highlights the general risk of bacteria developing resistance to the drug, which is a known issue with all antibiotics. Official guidance indicates that completing the full prescribed course is necessary to minimize the risk of developing resistance.

Q: What official information is available about stopping Aswad treatment?

Official guidance specifies the importance of completing the full course as determined by a healthcare provider. Stopping treatment early may prevent the infection from being fully cleared and can potentially contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Q: How quickly does Aswad usually start to have an effect?

Official pharmacokinetic information indicates that the medicine is absorbed very rapidly after administration, especially when taken on an empty stomach. This rapid absorption allows the medicine to quickly diffuse into the tissues where the infection is located.

Q: Is there a risk of dependency or withdrawal associated with Aswad?

This medicine is an antibiotic intended to treat bacterial infections. According to regulatory documentation, it is not associated with any known risk of dependency, addiction, or withdrawal symptoms.

Q: Can alcohol be consumed while taking Aswad, based on official recommendations?

Official patient information notes that a precaution is advised against consuming alcohol while using this medicine. This is primarily because alcohol may worsen common side effects such as nausea and dizziness.

Q: How long does Aswad typically stay in the body after the last dose?

According to official pharmacokinetic data, the plasma elimination half-life of this medicine is approximately 12 hours. The half-life is the time required for half the amount of the drug to be eliminated from the body.

Q: Is Aswad a controlled substance?

While this medicine is a prescription-only drug, it is not classified as a controlled substance under the relevant drug scheduling regulations used by various international authorities.

Q: Can Aswad cause vision changes or blurred eyesight?

Official product information notes that temporary blurred vision may be a possible side effect in some patients. Caution against driving or operating machinery is necessary if visual changes are experienced.

Q: Are there any required medical tests before a patient is eligible for Aswad?

Official labels caution against using the medicine in patients with severe liver impairment, and they advise monitoring in those with moderate impairment. However, regulatory documents do not specify mandatory pre-treatment diagnostic tests for all generally eligible patients.

Q: Does Aswad have a black box warning in the US or an equivalent in other regions?

The US-specific 'Black Box Warning' does not typically apply to this medicine. However, official product information highlights serious adverse reactions, including the risk of QT interval prolongation, which is documented as a significant cardiac arrhythmia risk.

How should Aswad be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Aswad?

Official regulatory documentation defines precise storage and disposal requirements to maintain product stability and safety.

Storage Conditions

Aswad must be stored at controlled room temperature, specifically between 20 C and 25 C (68 F and 77 F), with temporary excursions permitted. The product must be kept in its original container to protect it from environmental exposure, including excessive moisture. It is strictly required that the product not be frozen and that exposure to excessive heat be avoided.

Storage Classification Requirement
Temperature Controlled Room Temperature
Stability after Opening Discard 14 days after opening
Handling Do not freeze; protect from moisture

Disposal and Security

To prevent accidental ingestion or misuse, the medication must be kept securely out of the reach of children and pets. Unused or expired Aswad should be disposed of according to local environmental regulations. Patients should check for an authorized drug take-back program; do not flush the product down the toilet unless specific regulatory instructions advise doing so.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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