Clarithromycin

Clarithromycin

Clarithromycin is a versatile antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including skin infections, respiratory tract infections, and stomach ulcers associated with H. pylori. It works by stopping bacteria from growing by interfering with their protein production. Clarithromycin is available in tablets, oral suspension, and extended-release forms, making it suitable for adults and children when prescribed. It’s known for its practical, broad-spectrum antibacterial activity & is generally well-tolerated with a convenient dosing schedule.

Product Overview

Clarithromycin is an effective antibiotic belonging to the macrolide class. It is used to treat various bacterial infections, including acute otitis media, sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, community-acquired pneumonia, and infections caused by Mycobacterium avium complex, especially in people with HIV. It’s also prescribed for acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis and to treat and prevent duodenal ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori.

Clarithromycin works by inhibiting the protein synthesis of bacteria, thereby stopping their growth and spread. It offers the benefit of a twice-daily dosing regimen and can be taken with or without food, which enhances patient compliance. The medication is available in various forms, including 250 mg and 500 mg tablets, oral suspension, and extended-release tablets.

Patients typically experience symptom relief quickly, within a few days of starting treatment with clarithromycin. It can cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and headaches. Proper usage as directed by a healthcare provider is crucial to prevent resistance and ensure effectiveness.

What Is Clarithromycin Used for Treating?

• Acute otitis media, a type of ear infection
• Sinusitis
• Pharyngitis or tonsillitis, which are infections of the mouth
• Community-acquired pneumonia
• Infections caused by mycobacteria
• Acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and duodenal ulcer disease
• Uncomplicated infections of the skin and skin structure, such as ulcers, abscesses, burns, or wounds

What Are the Benefits of Clarithromycin?

• Effectively treats various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and H. pylori infections.
• Works against many common bacteria that cause bronchitis, pneumonia, and sinus infections.
• Can be used to prevent and treat Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection in people with HIV.
• Generally well-tolerated with a convenient twice-daily dosing schedule.
• Available in different forms including tablets, oral suspension, and extended-release tablets.
• Can be used in combination with other medications to treat stomach ulcers caused by H. pylori.
• Starts working quickly, with many patients experiencing improvement within a few days.
• Suitable for both adults and children when prescribed appropriately.
• Has a broad spectrum of activity against many types of bacteria.
• May be an alternative for patients who are allergic to penicillin-based antibiotics.
• Usually requires a shorter course of treatment compared to some other antibiotics.

What Are the Side Effects of Clarithromycin?

Common Clarithromycin side effects may include:

• Bloating and Indigestion
• Vomiting
• Difficulty Sleeping (Insomnia)
• Diarrhea
• Feeling Nauseous
• Headaches

[Note: This list is not exhaustive, if you notice any other symptoms that are not mentioned above, consult your doctor immediately.]

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Clarithromycin?

Clarithromycin is available in the following forms & strengths:

• Tablets: 250 mg, 500 mg
• Oral Suspension: 125mg per 5mL, 250mg per 5mL
• Tablets ER (extended-release): 500 mg

What Is the Typical Dosage of Clarithromycin?

Dosage of Clarithromycin for Bacterial Infections

• Adults: 250 to 500 mg taken every 12 hours for 7 to 14 days.
• Children (6 months and older): Dosage is usually 7.5 mg per kg of body weight every 12 hours for 10 days, as determined by a doctor.
• Infants (under 6 months): Dosage should be determined by a doctor.

Dosage of Clarithromycin for Community-Acquired Pneumonia

• Adults: Typically, 250 mg every 12 hours for 7 to 14 days.
• Children (6 months and older): Dosage based on the child’s weight, as determined by a doctor.
• Infants (under 6 months): Dosage must be determined by a doctor.

Dosage of Clarithromycin for Treatment of Ulcers Associated with H. Pylori Infection

• Adults: 500 mg every 8 hours for 14 days with omeprazole, or 500 mg every 12 hours with amoxicillin and lansoprazole for 10 to 14 days, or with amoxicillin and omeprazole for 10 days.
• Children: Dosage should be determined by a doctor.

Dosage of Clarithromycin to Prevent or Treat Mycobacterium Avium Complex (MAC) Infection

• Adults: 500 mg twice daily.
• Children (20 months and older): Typically 7.5 mg per kg of body weight, not to exceed 500 mg twice daily, as determined by a doctor.
• Children (under 20 months): Dosage must be determined by a doctor.

How to Take Clarithromycin?

• General Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s prescription carefully. You can take clarithromycin with or without food, with milk, or on an empty stomach.
• Extended-Release Tablets: Swallow whole without breaking, crushing, or chewing. This ensures proper release and absorption. Take with food to enhance absorption. It is normal to see remnants of the tablet in your stools, as these are indigestible components.
• Oral Liquid: Measure the liquid precisely with a special measuring device, not a household teaspoon. Shake the bottle well before each use. If taking clarithromycin with zidovudine, space them at least two hours apart to avoid absorption issues.
• Duration of Treatment: Continue taking the medication for the full duration prescribed, even if you start feeling better. Stopping early can allow the infection to return and potentially become resistant to treatment.

What to Do When You Miss a Dose of Clarithromycin?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double doses. 

[Note: Do not take two doses of Clarithromycin at the same time to compensate for a missed dose. This can increase your risk of experiencing side effects.]

What Happens When You Overdose on Clarithromycin?

Overdosing on clarithromycin can cause severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you overdose, seek immediate medical attention to manage these symptoms.

[Note: If you notice you have taken too much medication, call your local emergency number immediately.]

How Does Clarithromycin Work?

Clarithromycin is an antibiotic that stops bacteria from growing by interfering with their protein production. This prevents the bacteria from multiplying and spreading, effectively treating the infection.

What Are the Important Safety Precautions of Clarithromycin?

• Coronary Artery Disease: Risk of increased mortality for up to ten years after treatment initiation.
• Kidney Dysfunction: Risk of drug accumulation in patients with severe kidney problems, necessitating careful monitoring and possible dosage adjustments.
• Clostridioides Difficile-Associated Diarrhea: Can cause severe colitis; monitor closely, especially in patients with a history of gastrointestinal diseases.
• Hepatotoxicity: Monitor liver function; discontinue if symptoms like jaundice or dark urine appear.
• Myasthenia Gravis: May exacerbate symptoms; use with caution in affected patients.
• Renal Dysfunction: Adjust dosages in severe cases; monitor for drug accumulation.
• QT Prolongation: Avoid in patients with known QT prolongation or severe arrhythmias.

• Allergies: Avoid if allergic to clarithromycin or other macrolides.
• Breastfeeding: Clarithromycin can pass into breast milk; discuss risks with your doctor.
• Use in Children: Not safe for children under 20 months for certain infections; not recommended for children under 6 months for other infections.

How Do You Store Clarithromycin?

• Store clarithromycin at room temperature in a dry place away from heat and light.
• Ensure the container is tightly closed and out of reach of children.
• Do not refrigerate or freeze the oral liquid. 
• Discard any unused oral liquid after 14 days.

What Drugs Interact with Clarithromycin?

• Warfarin
• Lurasidone
• Certain HIV Drugs
• Ergotamine and Dihydroergotamine
• Colchicine
• Theophylline
• Sildenafil, Tadalafil, and Vardenafil
• Calcium Channel Blockers
• Insulin and Certain Oral Diabetes Drugs
• Pimozide
• Quetiapine
• Benzodiazepines
• Carbamazepine
• Quinidine and Disopyramide
• Certain Statins
• Digoxin

[Note: This list of interactions isn’t complete. Talk to your doctor if you notice any interaction with food, over-the-counter drugs, prescriptions or supplements.]

What Are the Alternatives to Clarithromycin?

• Levaquin (levofloxacin)
• Zithromax (azithromycin)
• Cipro (ciprofloxacin)
• Ery-Tab (erythromycin)
• Vibramycin (doxycycline)
• Amoxil (amoxicillin)

[Note: Your healthcare provider will choose which Clarithromycin alternative is best for you. Taking or consuming them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]

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Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does clarithromycin work?

Clarithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, starts working by killing the bacteria that cause infections. You should begin to feel better within a few days of starting the medication.

Is clarithromycin good for a cough?

Clarithromycin is effective only against bacterial infections. It should not be used for coughs, colds, or lung issues caused by viruses, as it will not be effective and could cause unnecessary side effects.

Can I drink coffee with clarithromycin?

It’s recommended to avoid consuming large meals, smoking, and drinking alcohol, tea, or coffee in the evening while taking clarithromycin to prevent potential interference with sleep or medication effectiveness.

Why no dairy with clarithromycin?

To ensure clarithromycin works effectively, avoid taking it with dairy products. Dairy can interact with the antibiotic, reducing its effectiveness. Take clarithromycin either 2 hours before or 6 hours after consuming dairy.

Is 500mg of clarithromycin twice a day strong?

The typical dose for clarithromycin ranges from 250mg to 500mg taken twice daily. Dosage may be adjusted for children or those with kidney issues. For severe infections, the dosage might be higher.

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