PRODUCT CLASSIFICATION
Antibiotic, Macrolide
RECOMMENDED DOSAGE
250-500 mg/day
ACNE TREATMENT
No
WATER RETENTION
No
HBR
No
HEPATOTOXICITY LEVEL
Low
AROMATIZATION
No
MANUFACTURER
Abbott
WAREHOUSE LOCATION
International Warehouse 2
ACTIVE INGREDIENT
Clarithromycin
Discover Clarithromycin
Clarithromycin is a powerful macrolide antibiotic designed to effectively target bacterial infections within the body. This medication is commonly prescribed for a range of bacterial conditions, especially those impacting the skin and respiratory systems. Moreover, clarithromycin plays a key role in combination therapies for treating stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori.
Essential Information
It's crucial to complete the full course of clarithromycin as directed by your healthcare professional, even if you start feeling better before the infection is completely eradicated. Skipping doses may increase the risk of antibiotic resistance. Please note that this antibiotic is not effective against viral infections, such as the common cold or flu.
Avoid using clarithromycin if you are allergic to it or to other related antibiotics, have a history of jaundice or liver complications linked to this medication, or if you are experiencing liver or kidney issues while taking colchicine.
Make sure to inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking or plan to stop, as clarithromycin can interact with various drugs, necessitating careful management.
Before You Start This Medication
Do not take clarithromycin if you are allergic to it or related antibiotics like azithromycin (Zithromax, Z-Pak, Zmax), erythromycin, or telithromycin, or if you have:
- Previously experienced jaundice or liver issues from clarithromycin
- Liver or kidney disease while taking colchicine
Several medications may interact negatively with clarithromycin. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your treatment if you are using:
- Cisapride
- Pimozide
- Lovastatin or simvastatin
- Ergotamine or dihydroergotamine
To ensure clarithromycin is right for you, inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- Heart problems
- Long QT syndrome (personal or family history)
- Coronary artery disease (clogged arteries)
- Myasthenia gravis
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- An electrolyte imbalance (like low potassium or magnesium)
Clarithromycin may pose risks to an unborn baby, so effective birth control is essential while using this medication. Be sure to inform your doctor if you become pregnant.
How to Use Clarithromycin
Take clarithromycin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Follow all the instructions on your prescription label carefully. Do not change the dosage or extend the duration of use without consulting your doctor.
Use this medication strictly for the conditions it was prescribed for and do not share it with others, even if they show similar symptoms.
The standard tablets and oral suspension (liquid) can be taken with or without food, while clarithromycin extended-release tablets must be taken with food. Avoid crushing, chewing, or breaking extended-release tablets; swallow them whole.
Typically, clarithromycin is prescribed for a duration of 7 to 14 days. Continue the treatment for the full prescribed course, even if your symptoms improve. Missing doses could heighten the risk of developing a resistant infection. Remember, clarithromycin is ineffective against viral infections such as the flu or cold.
Store this medication in its original container at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
If your treatment plan includes multiple medications, follow all instructions provided by your physician. Review the guidelines included with each medication and do not alter your doses or schedule without consulting your doctor.