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what is the drug clarithromycin used for

by Lizeth Wisoky Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Clarithromycin is used to treat bacterial infections in many different parts of the body. It is also used in combination with other medicines to treat duodenal ulcers caused by H. pylori. This medicine is also used to prevent and treat Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection.Aug 1, 2022

Precautions

Clarithromycin generally is well tolerated, and side effects usually are mild and transient. Common side effects of clarithromycin are: nausea, diarrhea, abnormal taste, dyspepsia, abdominal pain and; headache. Other important side effects which are rare, but serious include: liver failure, abnormal heart beats, hearing loss, and ; seizures.

What are the side effects of clarithromycin?

What happens if I overdose on Clarithromycin (Biaxin)? Overdose symptoms may include severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

What happens with overdose of clarithromycin?

swollen glands. tightness in the chest. unpleasant breath odor. unusual behavior. unusual tiredness or weakness. vomiting of blood. Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine.

Does clarithromycin make you tired?

Common antibiotics used to treat urinary tract infections include trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, amoxicillin, Augmentin, doxycycline, and fluoroquinolones. Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic and is not typically used to treat UTI's.

Can clarithromycin be used to treat UTI's?

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What type of bacteria does clarithromycin treat?

Clarithromycin is a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic chemically related to erythromycin and azithromycin (Zithromax). It is effective against a wide variety of bacteria, such as Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and mycobacterium avium, and many others.

What are the most common side effects of clarithromycin?

The more common side effects of clarithromycin oral tablet can include:stomach pain.diarrhea.nausea.vomiting.abnormal taste in your mouth.

Is clarithromycin stronger than amoxicillin?

We conclude that clarithromycin appears to be as effective as amoxicillin/clavulanate in acute maxillary sinusitis and may cause fewer gastrointestinal upsets.

What is the benefit of clarithromycin?

Clarithromycin is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. This medication can also be used in combination with anti-ulcer medications to treat certain types of stomach ulcers. It may also be used to prevent certain bacterial infections. Clarithromycin is known as a macrolide antibiotic.

How quickly does clarithromycin work?

When should the medicine start working? Your child should start to get better after taking the medicine for 2-3 days. It is important that they take the whole course of the medicine that has been prescribed.

How does clarithromycin make you feel?

You might feel dizzy or faint, or you might have a fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat. Make sure your doctor knows if you or anyone in your family has ever had a heart rhythm problem, such as QT prolongation. Clarithromycin may increase the risk for heart and blood vessel problems in patients with these conditions.

What can you not take with clarithromycin?

If you have kidney or liver disease, do not take this medicine together with colchicine (Colcrys®). Using these medicines together may increase the risk for more serious side effects. If your or your child's symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

What is the strongest antibiotic for bacterial infection?

The world's last line of defense against disease-causing bacteria just got a new warrior: vancomycin 3.0. Its predecessor—vancomycin 1.0—has been used since 1958 to combat dangerous infections like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Is clarithromycin good for Covid?

Based on the above analysis, it seems likely that treatment of patients with COVID-19 with oral clarithromycin will substantially increase their anti-inflammatory properties and decrease the chances for development of severe respiratory failure.

How safe is clarithromycin?

Safety Announcement. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising caution before prescribing the antibiotic clarithromycin (Biaxin) to patients with heart disease because of a potential increased risk of heart problems or death that can occur years later.

How long is a course of clarithromycin?

Duration of therapy: The duration of therapy with Clarithromycin film-coated tablets depends on the type and severity of the infection and has to be defined in any case by the physician. The usual duration of treatment is 7 to 14 days. Therapy should be continued at least for 2 days after symptoms have subsided.

Can you take clarithromycin on an empty stomach?

You may take this medicine with meals or milk or on an empty stomach. However, clarithromycin extended release tablets should be taken with food. If you are using the extended-release tablets: Swallow the tablet whole.

What are the side effects of clarithromycin 500mg?

What side effects can this medication cause?diarrhea.nausea.vomiting.stomach pain.heartburn.gas.change in taste.headache.

Does clarithromycin make you feel sick?

It is important to complete the prescribed course (unless you are told to stop). Otherwise your infection could come back. Any side-effects are usually mild. The most common are diarrhoea, feeling sick (nausea), tummy (abdominal) discomfort, and unusual tastes.

What is the strongest antibiotic for bacterial infection?

The world's last line of defense against disease-causing bacteria just got a new warrior: vancomycin 3.0. Its predecessor—vancomycin 1.0—has been used since 1958 to combat dangerous infections like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

How safe is clarithromycin?

Safety Announcement. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising caution before prescribing the antibiotic clarithromycin (Biaxin) to patients with heart disease because of a potential increased risk of heart problems or death that can occur years later.

What is the antibiotic clarithromycin used for?

Clarithromycin is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is usually given to treat pneumonia, sinus infections, and ear infections. It...

Is clarithromycin the same as an amoxicillin?

No. Although amoxicillin and clarithromycin are both antibiotics, they belong to different groups of antibiotics. They target different bacteria in...

How long does it take for clarithromycin to work?

For most infections, you should start to feel better within a few days. Other infections, like H. pylori ulcers or skin infections, can take a litt...

What medications interact with clarithromycin?

Clarithromycin is known to have many interactions. Some common ones include warfarin, insulin, and simvastatin. Before starting clarithromycin, tel...

Does clarithromycin leave a bitter taste in your mouth?

Clarithromycin can cause a change in taste or a metallic taste in your mouth. This is a common side effect and it should go away after you stop tak...

What is clarithromycin used for?

Clarithromycin is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. This medication can also be used in combination with anti-ulcer medications to treat certain types of stomach ulcers. It may also be used to prevent certain bacterial infections. Clarithromycin is known as a macrolide antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu ). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections.

What medical conditions can you have before taking clarithromycin?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease (including liver problems with past clarithromycin use), kidney disease, heart disease ( coronary artery disease, heart attack ), a certain type of muscle disease ( myasthenia gravis ).

How to report clarithromycin side effects?

You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345. Precautions. Before taking clarithromycin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it;

Does clarithromycin work for viral infections?

Clarithromycin is known as a macrolide antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu ). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can cause it to not work for future infections.

Why is clarithromycin used?

Clarithromycin is used to prevent and treat certain infections caused by bacteria.

Can Clarithromycin cause allergic reactions?

Clarithromycin can cause a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms can include:

Is clarithromycin a tablet?

This dosage information is for clarithromycin oral tablet. All possible dosages and drug forms may not be included here. Your dosage, drug form, and how often you take the drug will depend on:

Can you take clarithromycin and colchicine together?

Colchicine. If you have kidney or liver problems, you shouldn’t take colchicine and clarithromycin together. People with liver problems might have higher levels of colchicine in their body. Taking these drugs together can increase your risk of side effects.

Does Clarithromycin make you sleepy?

Clarithromycin oral tablet doesn’t cause drowsiness. However, it can cause other side effects.

Can Clarithromycin interact with other medications?

Clarithromycin oral tablet can interact with other medications, vitamins, or herbs you may be taking. An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. This can be harmful or prevent the drug from working well.

Is Clarithromycin a generic drug?

Clarithromycin oral tablet is a prescription drug that’s available as the brand-name drug Biaxin. It’s also available as a generic drug. Generic drugs usually cost less. In some cases, they may not be available in every strength or form as the brand-name version.

What is clarithromycin used for?

Clarithromycin is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is usually given to treat pneumonia, sinus infections, and ear infections. It can also be used along with other medications like amoxicillin and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to treat stomach ulcers.

How long is clarithromycin good for?

Keep the liquid version of clarithromycin at room temperature. Do not put it in the fridge. The liquid is good for up to 14 days after it has been mixed by your pharmacist. If you have diarrhea after taking clarithromycin, try taking probiotic supplements to help lessen this side effect. Separate the probiotic from clarithromycin by ...

What are the side effects of clarithromycin?

With any medication, there are risks and benefits. Even if the medication is working, you may experience some unwanted side effects.

What are the risks and warnings for clarithromycin?

Clarithromycin can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options

What are alternatives to clarithromycin?

There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of clarithromycin. Compare a few possible alternatives below.

What is the name of the antibiotic that stops bacteria from producing nutrients?

Clarithromycin belongs to a group of antibiotics called macrolide antibiotics. It treats your infection by stopping bacteria from producing important nutrients it needs to survive.

What is the FDA approved treatment for yeast infections?

FDA recently approved Scynexis’s new treatment for vaginal yeast infections called Brexafemme (Ibrexafunger p). Brexafemme is the only non-azole antifungal and the first novel antifungal approved in over two decades. Learn more about Brexafemme and how it differs from Monistat, a popular azole antifungal medication.

Why is clarithromycin prescribed?

Why is this medication prescribed? Clarithromycin is used to treat certain bacterial infections, such as pneumonia (a lung infection), bronchitis (infection of the tubes leading to the lungs), and infections of the ears, sinuses, skin, and throat.

How long does clarithromycin stay in your system?

The extended-release tablet is usually taken with food every 24 hours (once a day) for 7 to 14 days. Your doctor may tell you to take clarithromycin for a longer time depending on your condition. Take clarithromycin at around the same time (s) every day.

How should this medicine be used?

Clarithromycin comes as a tablet, an extended-release (long-acting) tablet, and a suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. The regular tablet and liquid are usually taken with or without food every 8 (three times a day) to 12 hours (twice a day) for 7 to 14 days. The extended-release tablet is usually taken with food every 24 hours (once a day) for 7 to 14 days. Your doctor may tell you to take clarithromycin for a longer time depending on your condition. Take clarithromycin at around the same time (s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take clarithromycin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

What to do if you don't feel better after taking clarithromycin?

If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, call your doctor. Take clarithromycin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. If you stop taking clarithromycin too soon, or skip doses, your infection may not be completely treated and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.

Can you split clarithromycin?

Take clarithromycin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Shake the suspension well before each use to mix the medication evenly. Swallow the long-acting tablets whole; do not split, chew, or crush them.

Does clarithromycin help with colds?

Clarithromycin is in a class of medications called macrolide antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics such as clarithromycin will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

Can you take clarithromycin if you have jaundice?

Your doctor will probably tell you not to take clarithromycin.

What Is Clarithromycin and How Does It Work?

It may also be used to prevent certain bacterial infections. Clarithromycin is known as a macrolide antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

What Are Dosage of Clarithromycin?

Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Actinomyces israelii, Actinomyces naeslundii, Actinomyces odontolyticus, Afipia felis, Arachnia propionica, Bartonella henselae, Bartonella quintana, Chlamydia pneumoniae (TWAR agent), Bordetella pertussis, Borrelia recurrentis, Calymmatobacterium granulomatis, Campylobacter jejuni, Chlamydia spp, Haemophilus ducreyi, Haemophilus influenzae, Helicobacter pylori, Legionella pneumophila, Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC ), Mycobacterium chelonae, Mycobacterium fortuitum, Mycobacterium genavense, Mycobacterium gordonae, Mycobacterium kansasii, Mycobacterium leprae, Mycobacterium marinum, Mycobacterium scrofulaceum, Mycobacterium simiae, Mycobacterium szulgai, Mycobacterium ulcerans, Mycobacterium xenopi, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Moraxella (Branhamella ) catarrhalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus (group C, G), Streptococcus agalactiae (group B), Streptococcus bovis (group D), Streptococcus intermedius group (Streptococcus anginosus, Streptococcus intermedius, Streptococcus constellatus), Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin sensitive; minimal inhibitory concentration [MIC] under 0.1 mcg/mL), Streptococcus pyogenes (group A), viridans streptococci, Ureaplasma urealyticum

What is the name of the antibiotic that stops bacteria from growing?

Clarithromycin is known as a macrolide antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Clarithromycin is available under the following different brand names: Biaxin, and Biaxin XL. Dosage of Clarithromycin: Adult and pediatric dosages: Oral suspension.

How many drugs interact with clarithromycin?

Clarithromycin has moderate interactions with at least 238 different drugs. Clarithromycin has minor interactions with at least 98 different drugs. This information does not contain all possible interactions or adverse effects.

Can you take Biaxin XL if you are allergic to clarithromycin?

Do not take Biaxin or Biaxin XL if you are allergic to clarithromycin or any ingredients contained in this drug.

What is Clarithromycin used for?

As a macrolide antibiotic, Clarithromycin is used in the treatment of infections caused by bacteria. The infections may include pneumonia, respiratory tract infections, lyme disease, strep throat, skin infections, H. pylori infection, among others.

What are the interactions of Clarithromycin ?

Whenever you take more than one medicine, or mix it with certain foods or beverages, you"re at risk of a drug interaction.

How long does it take for clarithromycin to work?

Ans: Usually, Clarithromycin starts working soon after taking it. However, it may take some days to kill all the harmful bacteria and make you feel better.

What is the antibiotic that stops the growth of bacteria?

Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that stops the growth of bacteria by inhibiting protein synthesis. It binds reversibly to the 50S ribosomal subunits which prevent peptidyl transferase activity which in turn interferes with the translocation process thus preventing peptide chain elongation.

Is clarithromycin good for endocarditis?

Clarithromycin is also indicated for prophylaxis of bacterial endocarditis in patients who are allergic to penicillin and undergoing surgical or dental procedures.

Is fucidin H cream antifungal?

For fungal infection candid cream is useful . These Fucidin H cream, clarithromycin or imiquimod cream.are not antifungal

Does fluconazole increase clarithromycin?

Fluconazole increases clarithromycin levels and AUC by ~25%; death has been reported with administration of pimozide and clarithromycin. Concurrent use is contraindicated.

What is the purpose of Clarithromycin?

Clarithromycin (kla rith" roe mye' sin) is a semisynthetic macrolide antibiotic used widely to treat mild-to-moderate bacterial infections caused by sensitive agents. Clarithromycin, like other macrolide antibiotics such such as eythromycin and azithromycin, is bacteriostatic against many gram positive bacteria including many strains of streptococci, staphylococci, clostridia, corynebacteria, listeria, haemophilus sp., moxicella, and Neisseria meningitidis. Clarithromycin is also active against Chlamydia pneumoniae, Helicobacter pylori, and several atypical mycobacteria. Macrolide antibiotics act by inhibiting protein synthesis of bacteria by binding to the 50S ribosomal element. Resistance occurs by several mechanisms. Clarithromycin was approved for use in the United States in 1993, and currently more than 3 million prescriptions are filled yearly. Typical indications are for upper respiratory infections, bronchitis, sinusitis, community acquired pneumonia, and skin and tissue infections. Clarithromycin is also used for infections caused by Chlamydia pneumoniae, Helicobacter pylori and atypical mycobacteria. Clarithromycin is available in tablets of 250 and 500 mg generically under several commercial names including Biaxin, Claripen and Clacid. Extended release formulations are also available. The typical course is 250 to 500 mg twice daily (or 1000 mg extended release tablets once daily) for 7 to 14 days. Clarithromycin is given chronically in some situations such as prophylaxis against mycobacterium avium complex in patients with HIV infection. Clarithromycin is generally well tolerated, but side effects can include nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, headache, dizziness, angioedema and rash.

What day does jaundice appear with clarithromycin?

Nausea and jaundice arose on day 7 of a 10 day course of clarithromycin

Does clarithromycin cause elevated aminotransferase levels?

Clarithromycin, like other macrolide antibiotics, has been linked to a low rate of acute, transient and usually asymptomatic elevations in serum aminotransferase levels which occur in 1% to 2% of patients treated for short periods and a somewhat higher proportion of patients given clarithromycin long term. Asymptomatic elevations in serum enzymes are particularly common among elderly patients given higher doses of clarithromycin.

Is clarithromycin a macrolide?

Clarithromycin is a semisynthetic macrolide antibiotic used for a wide variety of mild-to-moderate bacterial infections. Clarithromycin has been linked to rare instances of acute liver injury that can be severe and even fatal.

Can clarithromycin cause liver damage?

The cause of the idiosyncratic liver injury due to clarithromycin is unknown, but the rapidity of onset and prompt recurrence upon rechallenge suggests hypersensitivity. Clarithromycin is extensively metabolized by the microsomal cytochrome P450 system and is a potent inhibitor of CYP 3A4, for which reason it can cause serious drug-drug interactions with agents that are metabolized by CYP 3A4 such as siapride, terfenadine, ergotamine, colchicine, amlodipine, diltiazem and many statins and benzodiazepines. Thus, in some situations, clarithromycin may lead to liver injury from a concurrent medication because of a decrease in its metabolism and increased blood levels.

Is clarithromycin a drug induced liver disease?

A convincing history for drug induced liver disease and the only new medication taken was clarithromycin. The latency was short (one week) as is typical for macrolide induced hepatotoxicity, and the pattern of liver enzyme elevations was cholestatic which also is typical. Despite the patient’s age and depth of jaundice, recovery was complete, taking somewhat longer than usual for this form of drug induced liver injury probably because of the height of the bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase elevations.

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Medical uses

Clarithromycin is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. This medication can also be used in combination with anti-ulcer medications to treat certain types of stomach ulcers. It may also be used to prevent certain bacterial infections.

May Treat: Haemophilus influenzae acute otitis media · Haemophilus influenzae bronchitis · Haemophilus influenzae pneumonia · Haemophilus parainfluenza pneumonia · Helicobacter pylori gastritis and more

Brand Names: Biaxin · Biaxin XL · Biaxin XL Pak

Drug Class: Macrolide Antibiotics

Availability: Prescription Required

Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before using

Lactation: Consult a doctor before using

Precautions

  • Tell your pharmacist & Dr if you have allergies
  • Success is dependent on completing therapy course
  • Tell doctor if fainting or faintness occurs.

  • Tell your pharmacist & Dr if you have allergies
  • Success is dependent on completing therapy course
  • Tell doctor if fainting or faintness occurs.
  • Call MD if new abdominal pain/yellowing eyes/skin
  • Call DR if rash or severe diarrhea occur.
  • For suspension, reconstituted, oral products : Shake well before using. Discard after 14 days. Measure dose using a dosing spoon/cup/syringe.
  • For tablet products : Space doses evenly throughout the day. May alter taste. Review all drugs you are taking with your doctor.
  • For tablet, extended release 24 hr products : Do not chew or crush. OK to split tablet if scored. Take with food.

Administration

Treatment

Diet

Prevention

  • Clarithromycin is used to treat certain bacterial infections, such as pneumonia (a lung infection), bronchitis (infection of the tubes leading to the lungs), and infections of the ears, sinuses, skin, and throat. It also is used to treat and prevent disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection [a type of lung infection that often affect...
See more on medlineplus.gov

Diagnosis

  • Clarithromycin comes as a tablet, an extended-release (long-acting) tablet, and a suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. The regular tablet and liquid are usually taken with or without food every 8 (three times a day) to 12 hours (twice a day) for 7 to 14 days. The extended-release tablet is usually taken with food every 24 hours (once a day) for 7 to 14 days. Your doctor may tell you to …
See more on medlineplus.gov

Risks

  • You should begin to feel better during the first few days of treatment with clarithromycin. If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, call your doctor. Take clarithromycin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. If you stop taking clarithromycin too soon, or skip doses, your infection may not be completely treated and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics. D…
See more on medlineplus.gov

Preparation

  • Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
See more on medlineplus.gov

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