CLASSIFICATION
Macrolide Antibiotic
RECOMMENDED DOSAGE
250-500 mg per day
ACNE TREATMENT
No
WATER RETENTION
No
HBR (Hormone Binding Ratio)
No
HEPATOTOXICITY RISK
Low
AROMATIZATION
No
MANUFACTURER
Abbott
WAREHOUSE LOCATION
International Warehouse 2
ACTIVE INGREDIENT
Clarithromycin
What is Clarithromycin?
Clarithromycin is a powerful macrolide antibiotic designed to effectively fight bacterial infections in your body. It is often prescribed for a variety of bacterial conditions, particularly targeting infections of the skin and respiratory tract. Additionally, clarithromycin is commonly used alongside other medications to treat stomach ulcers linked to Helicobacter pylori.
Essential Information
To ensure the effectiveness of clarithromycin, it?s crucial to complete the full course prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better before the infection has fully cleared. Skipping doses can increase the risk of developing antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Remember, clarithromycin is ineffective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu.
Do not use this antibiotic if you have a known allergy to clarithromycin or similar antibiotics, a history of jaundice or liver problems stemming from this medication, or if you have liver or kidney disease while taking colchicine.
Always inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking or plan to start or stop. Many drugs can interact with clarithromycin, and some combinations can be harmful.
Precautions Before Taking Clarithromycin
Avoid using clarithromycin if you are allergic to it or to related antibiotics like azithromycin (Zithromax, Z-Pak, Zmax), erythromycin, or telithromycin, or if you have:
- A history of jaundice or liver issues related to clarithromycin
- Liver or kidney disease, especially when using colchicine
Several medications may cause adverse interactions with clarithromycin, and your doctor may need to adjust your treatment if you are taking:
- Cisapride
- Pimozide
- Lovastatin or simvastatin
- Ergotamine or dihydroergotamine
To determine if clarithromycin is right for you, inform your doctor if you have ever experienced:
- Heart conditions
- Long QT syndrome (personal or family history)
- Coronary artery disease (blocked arteries)
- Myasthenia gravis
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- An electrolyte imbalance (like low potassium or magnesium)
Clarithromycin may pose risks to an unborn baby, hence effective birth control is recommended during treatment. Notify your healthcare provider if you become pregnant.
How to Take Clarithromycin
Follow your healthcare provider?s instructions on how to take clarithromycin. Stick to the dosage indicated on your prescription. Do not modify the dose or use it longer than recommended.
This medication should not be used for unverified conditions, and sharing it with others, even if they have similar symptoms, is not advised.
You can take standard tablets and liquid formulations with or without food. However, extended-release tablets should be taken with food. Remember not to crush, chew, or break extended-release tablets; swallow them whole.
Clarithromycin is typically prescribed for a duration of 7 to 14 days. Continue taking it for the entire prescribed period, even if symptoms improve. Missing doses can lead to a higher risk of antibiotic resistance. Note that clarithromycin does not treat 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 you are on multiple medications, carefully follow all directions given by your doctor. Review the instructions that come with each medication and do not alter your doses or schedule without consulting your healthcare provider.