PRODUCT CLASSIFICATION
Antibiotic, Macrolide
RECOMMENDED DOSAGE
500 mg per day
ACNE TREATMENT
No
WATER RETENTION
No
HBR
No
HEPATOTOXICITY LEVEL
Low
AROMATIZATION
No
MANUFACTURER
Sanovel
STORAGE LOCATION
International Warehouse 2
ACTIVE INGREDIENT
Clarithromycin
What is Clarithromycin?
Clarithromycin is a powerful antibiotic belonging to the macrolide family, specifically designed to fight bacterial infections in the body. This medication is commonly prescribed for a variety of bacterial infections affecting the skin and respiratory system. Additionally, clarithromycin plays a critical role in combination therapies aimed at treating stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori.
Crucial Information
It?s essential to complete the full course of clarithromycin as directed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better before the treatment ends. Skipping doses can increase the risk of developing antibiotic-resistant infections. Remember, this medication is ineffective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu.
Do not use clarithromycin if you have a known allergy to it or similar antibiotics, have experienced jaundice or liver problems due to this drug, or if you are dealing with liver or kidney disease while taking colchicine.
Always inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking or any new ones you plan to start or stop. Several medications can interact with clarithromycin, so careful management is crucial.
Before Using Clarithromycin
Avoid using clarithromycin if you are allergic to it or related medications, including azithromycin (Zithromax, Z-Pak, Zmax), erythromycin, or telithromycin, or if you have:
- A history of jaundice or liver issues caused by clarithromycin
- Liver or kidney disease while taking colchicine
Certain medications can cause negative interactions with clarithromycin. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your treatment plan if you are using any of the following:
- Cisapride
- Pimozide
- Lovastatin or simvastatin
- Ergotamine or dihydroergotamine
To ensure safety, inform your doctor if you have a history of:
- Heart conditions
- Long QT syndrome (personal or family history)
- Coronary artery disease
- Myasthenia gravis
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Electrolyte imbalances (such as low potassium or magnesium levels)
Clarithromycin may pose potential risks to an unborn baby. Use effective birth control methods while taking this medication and inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant.
How to Take Clarithromycin
Take clarithromycin precisely as instructed by your doctor. Adhere to all guidelines on your prescription label; do not exceed or reduce the prescribed dosage or treatment duration.
Refrain from using this medication for any condition that has not been evaluated by your healthcare provider. Do not share this medication with others, even if they exhibit similar symptoms.
You can take regular tablets and the oral suspension (liquid) with or without food. However, ensure to take the extended-release tablets with food. Swallow these tablets whole?do not crush, chew, or break them.
Typically, clarithromycin is prescribed for 7 to 14 days. Use the medication for the entire duration as directed, even if you feel better quickly, to avoid the risk of antibiotic-resistant infections. Remember, clarithromycin is not effective against viral infections like the flu or common cold.
Store the medication in its original container at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. If your treatment includes a combination of medications, follow your doctor?s instructions closely for each one. Review all provided directions and do not alter your dosage or schedule without consulting your healthcare provider.