All antibiotics carry unfavorable side effects. But Azithromycin (commonly referred to as the Zpac) has always been considered relatively safe, carrying minimal side effects. Accordingly, it has been one of the most overly prescribed antibiotic. So much so that people are developing a resistance to it. This new study states that during the 5-day Zpac course, people experienced a 3-fold increase risk of cardiovascular disease death.  While it is unfortunate to realize that even the Zpac has major side effects, hopefully it will cause physicians to think twice before prescribing it for common upper respiratory tract infections which will usually heal on their own given rest, immune support and, if needed, herbal anti-microbials.