Clarithromycin

Clarithromycin is a widely used antibiotic known for its broad-spectrum effectiveness. It works well against many types of bacterial infections and is part of the macrolide antibiotic family.

Clarithromycin is prescribed to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. These include respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia, sinusitis, bronchitis, and pharyngitis. It’s also used for middle ear infections (acute otitis), skin and soft tissue infections, mycobacterial infections, whooping cough (pertussis), and Helicobacter pylori infections associated with peptic ulcers.

Clarithromycin works by stopping bacteria from producing proteins they need to grow and survive. It binds to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome and blocks the elongation of the protein chain, effectively stopping the bacteria from multiplying.

The dosage depends on the severity of the infection and the individual’s condition. A typical dose is either 250 mg or 500 mg taken twice a day by mouth.

Clarithromycin begins working within a few hours of the first dose. Most people begin to notice symptom improvement within two to three days.

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Don’t take two doses at once.

Side effects can range from mild to serious. Common ones include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, a bad metallic taste, and liver issues. In rare cases, it can cause QT prolongation (a heart rhythm disorder) or Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea.

Clarithromycin generally does not interfere with sleep or alertness.

Yes, but caution is needed. Clarithromycin can interact with a number of other medicines such as anticoagulants, statins, digoxin, benzodiazepines, calcium channel blockers, HIV protease inhibitors, and anti-arrhythmic drugs. These interactions can increase the risk of side effects. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking.

Clarithromycin is classified as a pregnancy category C drug. It is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, due to potential risks to the baby.

Although rare, allergic reactions can occur. Symptoms may include rashes, itching, swelling, or more serious reactions like shortness of breath or anaphylaxis. Severe reactions require urgent medical care.

Yes, drinking alcohol while taking clarithromycin is not known to cause any direct problems. However, it’s always wise to drink in moderation, especially while your body is recovering from an infection.

This antibiotic is not meant for long-term use. It should only be taken for the duration prescribed by your doctor.

Clarithromycin is taken by mouth. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding dosage and treatment duration.

Store it at room temperature in a tightly sealed container, away from light and moisture.

Taking too much can lead to serious side effects such as irregular heart rhythms, jaundice, dark urine, kidney issues, or hearing loss. If this happens, seek emergency medical attention right away.

It’s best to take it with meals to reduce stomach upset and help your body absorb the medication more effectively.

You should avoid clarithromycin if you’re allergic to macrolide antibiotics like erythromycin or azithromycin, if you have certain heart conditions, or if you suffer from liver or kidney disease. It should also be avoided by those taking certain medications, including statins, antiarrhythmics, blood thinners like warfarin, benzodiazepines, HIV medications, and some antifungal drugs.

Do not break or crush extended-release tablets. They should be swallowed whole to ensure proper release of the medicine.

You just need to answer some medical questions and pay upfront. Once a doctor gives the green light, your Clarithromycine is prepared and shipped by the pharmacy.

Yes, a valid prescription is required for Clarithromycine. After you complete a short medical questionnaire and payment, a doctor will review your case and provide a prescription if appropriate.

Once the medical review is completed and the prescription for Clarithromycine is confirmed, the pharmacy dispatches your order quickly.

Because Clarithromycine is a prescription medicine, it cannot be returned once approved by a doctor, in line with strict health and pharmacy rules.