Why is this medication prescribed?

Clarithromycin is a prescription antibiotic medication used to treat various bacterial infections. It belongs to a class of antibiotics called macrolides. Clarithromycin is prescribed for the treatment of the following conditions caused by susceptible bacteria:

• Respiratory tract infections: Including acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, community-acquired pneumonia, and sinusitis.
• Skin and soft tissue infections: Such as cellulitis and erysipelas.
• H. pylori infection: As part of combination therapy to eradicate Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which can cause peptic ulcers.
• Mycobacterial infections: Clarithromycin is sometimes used in combination therapy for certain mycobacterial infections, such as Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infections in HIV-positive patients.

How should this medicine be used?

The dosing and duration of treatment with Clarithromycin depend on the type and severity of the infection being treated. Here are general guidelines:

• Dosage: Clarithromycin is typically taken orally in the form of tablets or oral suspension. The dosage varies based on the specific infection and patient factors. It’s crucial to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Frequency: It is usually taken 1 to 2 times daily. Again, follow your doctor’s instructions on when and how often to take the medication.
• Duration: Treatment duration can vary from a few days to several weeks, depending on the infection being treated. It’s essential to complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed, even if you start feeling better before finishing them.
• Special instructions: Clarithromycin can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.
• Adherence: Take Clarithromycin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Skipping doses or stopping the medication early can lead to antibiotic resistance or incomplete treatment of the infection.
• Consultation: Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to take Clarithromycin, especially regarding dosing, side effects, or interactions with other medications.

As with any antibiotic, it’s important to use Clarithromycin only when prescribed by a healthcare professional to ensure appropriate treatment and minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Other uses for this medicine

• Lyme disease: In some cases, Clarithromycin may be used as part of combination therapy for treating Lyme disease.
• Toxoplasmosis: Clarithromycin can be part of the treatment regimen for toxoplasmosis, especially in patients who are intolerant to sulfonamides.
• Chronic prostatitis: It may be used in combination with other antibiotics for treating chronic bacterial prostatitis.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions for Clarithromycin:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to Clarithromycin, other macrolide antibiotics (such as erythromycin), or any other medications.
• Liver problems: Clarithromycin can affect liver function, so inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease or abnormal liver function tests.
• Kidney problems: If you have kidney disease or impaired kidney function, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage of Clarithromycin.
• Heart conditions: Clarithromycin can prolong the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which may lead to an irregular heart rhythm. Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart rhythm disorders or are taking medications that can prolong the QT interval.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Clarithromycin should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and under the supervision of a healthcare provider. It passes into breast milk, so caution is advised when breastfeeding.
• Drug interactions: Clarithromycin can interact with various medications, including blood thinners, statins, and certain antiarrhythmic drugs. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Clarithromycin.
• Side effects: Common side effects of Clarithromycin include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and changes in taste. Contact your doctor if you experience severe or persistent side effects.
• Resistance: Use Clarithromycin only for bacterial infections it is intended to treat and as prescribed by your doctor. Misuse or overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and advice regarding the use of Clarithromycin, and do not hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification on any concerns you may have about its use and potential risks.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for Clarithromycin. However, taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset. If you experience nausea or stomach discomfort, taking the medication with a meal or snack can often help alleviate these symptoms.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Clarithromycin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Clarithromycin, like any medication, can cause side effects. These can vary in severity and occurrence from person to person. Common side effects of Clarithromycin include:

• Gastrointestinal effects: These are the most common and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and changes in taste.
• Central nervous system effects: Headache, dizziness, and insomnia can occur, although they are less common.
• Allergic reactions: Rarely, Clarithromycin can cause allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of a serious allergic reaction.
• Liver problems: Clarithromycin can affect liver function, leading to abnormal liver enzyme tests or hepatitis. Contact your doctor if you notice symptoms such as persistent nausea/vomiting, severe stomach or abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, or dark urine.
• Heart rhythm disturbances: Clarithromycin may prolong the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which can lead to an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). This is more likely in patients with certain medical conditions or those taking other medications that can also prolong the QT interval.
• Other side effects: Less common side effects can include muscle pain, joint pain, and ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

It’s important to note that not everyone experiences these side effects, and some individuals may not experience any at all. If you are prescribed Clarithromycin and are concerned about potential side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjusting your treatment plan if needed.

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

Storage and disposal of Clarithromycin:

• Storage: Store Clarithromycin tablets and oral suspension at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused Clarithromycin properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so. Ask your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance on how to safely dispose of unused medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as trouble breathing or passing out, call emergency services (911 in the US) immediately.
• Overdose symptoms: Symptoms of Clarithromycin overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Seek medical attention promptly if you suspect an overdose.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-up: Keep all appointments with your doctor and laboratory while taking Clarithromycin. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body’s response to the medication.
• Missed doses: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
• Drug interactions: Clarithromycin can interact with other medications, including blood thinners, statins, and certain antiarrhythmic drugs. Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
• Antibiotic resistance: Use Clarithromycin only as prescribed by your doctor for bacterial infections it is intended to treat. Avoid using it for viral infections (e.g., common cold) or unnecessary use, as this contributes to antibiotic resistance.
• Allergic reactions: If you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction to Clarithromycin, such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
• Driving and operating machinery: Clarithromycin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you know how this medication affects you.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Clarithromycin should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and under medical supervision.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and advice regarding the use of Clarithromycin. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification and guidance.