Why is this medication prescribed?

Biaxin XL Filmtab, which is the brand name for generic clarithromycin, is commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infections. This antibiotic is effective against a variety of bacteria, including those responsible for respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and certain types of stomach ulcers caused by the bacteria H. pylori.

How should this medicine be used?

The dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the type and severity of the infection, as well as individual factors such as age and overall health. It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and take the medication exactly as prescribed.

Typically, Biaxin XL Filmtab is taken orally, usually once daily with food to help reduce stomach upset. The tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or broken, as this may affect the release of the medication.

It’s important to complete the full course of treatment even if you start feeling better before you’ve finished all the medication. Stopping antibiotics prematurely can lead to the resurgence of infection or the development of antibiotic resistance.

If you have any questions or concerns about how to take Biaxin XL Filmtab, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific medical situation.

Other uses for this medicine

Biaxin XL Filmtab (clarithromycin) may also be prescribed for other conditions beyond bacterial infections, but this would be at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Off-label uses might include certain types of skin infections, sinusitis, and other bacterial infections not listed in the official prescribing information.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Biaxin XL Filmtab, it’s important to observe certain precautions to ensure its safe and effective use:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to clarithromycin, other antibiotics, or any other medications.
• Medical History: Provide your healthcare provider with your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, heart rhythm problems (such as prolonged QT interval), myasthenia gravis, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Drug Interactions: Clarithromycin can interact with other medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. Make sure to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications (including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal supplements, and vitamins) you are currently taking.
• Liver Function: Biaxin XL Filmtab can affect liver function, so regular monitoring of liver enzymes may be necessary during treatment, especially for individuals with pre-existing liver conditions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Clarithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and under the supervision of a healthcare provider. It is excreted in breast milk, so caution is advised when breastfeeding while taking this medication.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, which can include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and changes in taste. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
• Completion of Treatment: Finish the entire course of medication as prescribed, even if you start feeling better before you have completed the course. Stopping antibiotics prematurely can lead to the recurrence of infection or the development of antibiotic resistance.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about Biaxin XL Filmtab to ensure safe and effective use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions, you can generally take Biaxin XL Filmtab with or without food. However, if you experience stomach upset, taking it with food may help alleviate this side effect. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Biaxin XL Filmtab, as it may interact with the medication and increase the risk of side effects.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Biaxin XL Filmtab, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you’re unsure about what to do, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice. It’s important to maintain a consistent dosing schedule to ensure the effectiveness of the medication.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Biaxin XL Filmtab (clarithromycin) may cause various side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal Effects: These can include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and changes in taste.
• Central Nervous System Effects: Some people may experience headache, dizziness, or difficulty sleeping (insomnia).
• Skin Reactions: Rash and itching are possible side effects of clarithromycin. Severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis are rare but serious and require immediate medical attention.
• Liver Problems: Clarithromycin can affect liver function, leading to elevated liver enzymes. In rare cases, it may cause liver inflammation (hepatitis).
• Cardiovascular Effects: Clarithromycin has been associated with prolongation of the QT interval, which can lead to a potentially serious irregular heart rhythm called torsades de pointes, especially in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
• Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to clarithromycin, including hives, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Other Side Effects: Less common side effects may include muscle pain or weakness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and changes in blood cell counts.

It’s essential to report any side effects you experience while taking Biaxin XL Filmtab to your healthcare provider. They can help determine whether the side effects are related to the medication and advise you on the appropriate course of action. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, especially those affecting your breathing, heart rhythm, or liver function, seek medical attention promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to storage and disposal of Biaxin XL Filmtab, consider the following:

• Storage: Store Biaxin XL Filmtab at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as moisture can degrade the medication.
• Disposal: Do not keep expired or unused Biaxin XL Filmtab. Dispose of any unused medication properly according to local guidelines or by using a medication take-back program. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose of Biaxin XL Filmtab, seek emergency medical attention or call your local poison control center immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea.

What other information should I know?

• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Biaxin XL Filmtab.
• Do not share Biaxin XL Filmtab with others, even if they have similar symptoms, as it may not be suitable for their condition.
• Complete the full course of medication as prescribed, even if you start feeling better before you’ve finished all the medication.
• Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Biaxin XL Filmtab, as it may interact with the medication and increase the risk of side effects.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Biaxin XL Filmtab, including its usage, side effects, or interactions, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

Following these guidelines will help ensure the safe and effective use of Biaxin XL Filmtab and minimize the risk of adverse effects or complications.