CLASSIFICATION
Macrolide Antibiotic
DOSAGE
500 mg/day
ACNE
No
WATER RETENTION
No
HBR
No
HEPATOTOXICITY
Low
AROMATIZATION
No
MANUFACTURER
Sanovel
WAREHOUSE
International Warehouse 2
SUBSTANCE
Clarithromycin
What is Clarithromycin?
Clarithromycin is a powerful macrolide antibiotic designed to effectively combat various bacterial infections within the body. This versatile medication is commonly prescribed for skin and respiratory tract infections, and it plays a crucial role in treating stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori when used in conjunction with other therapies.
Important Information
For optimal results, it's essential to complete the entire course of clarithromycin as directed by your healthcare provider, even if you notice improvements before finishing the treatment. Incomplete courses can lead to antibiotic-resistant infections. Remember, clarithromycin is not effective against viral illnesses such as the common cold or flu.
Do not use this medication if you have a known allergy to clarithromycin or similar antibiotics, have experienced liver issues or jaundice from this drug, or if you have liver or kidney conditions while taking colchicine.
Keep your doctor informed about all medications you're currently taking or any that you plan to start or stop. Clarithromycin can interact with many drugs, some of which should not be combined.
Before Taking this Medication
If you have a history of allergies to clarithromycin or related medications like azithromycin (Zithromax, Z-Pak, Zmax), erythromycin, or telithromycin, avoid using this antibiotic. Additionally, steer clear of clarithromycin if you have:
- Experienced jaundice or liver issues due to clarithromycin
- Liver or kidney disease while taking colchicine
Be cautious, as certain medications can cause harmful interactions with clarithromycin. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your treatment if you're taking any of the following:
- Cisapride
- Pimozide
- Lovastatin or simvastatin
- Ergotamine or dihydroergotamine
For 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 (low potassium or magnesium)
Clarithromycin may pose risks to an unborn baby, so effective contraceptive methods are recommended during treatment. Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while taking this medication.
How Should I Take Clarithromycin?
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully when taking clarithromycin. Adhere to the directions provided on your prescription label, and do not exceed or reduce the prescribed dosage or duration without consulting your healthcare provider.
Only use this medication for conditions that have been evaluated by your doctor, and avoid sharing it with others who exhibit similar symptoms.
You can take both regular tablets and oral suspension (liquid) with or without food, while the extended-release tablets should be taken with food. Remember to swallow the extended-release tablets whole?do not crush, chew, or break them.
Typically, a course of clarithromycin lasts between 7 to 14 days. Complete the treatment even if you start feeling better, as skipping doses can lead to antibiotic-resistant infections. Note that clarithromycin is ineffective against viral infections such as the flu or common cold.
Store your medication in its original container at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
If your treatment involves multiple medications, follow your doctor?s guidance carefully for each one, and do not alter your dosage or schedule without prior consultation.