Clarithromycin

What is Clarithromycin used for?

Clarithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat various infections caused by bacteria. In adults, it's used for chest infections like bronchitis and pneumonia, sinus infections, and throat infections. It also treats skin infections and a type of lung infection in people with advanced HIV. In children, clarithromycin is used for throat infections, pneumonia, sinus infections, ear infections, and skin infections. It's also used to prevent a chest infection in children with advanced HIV.

How does Clarithromycin work?

Clarithromycin, an antibiotic, enters body tissues and fluids easily. It builds up more inside cells than in the bloodstream. 

 It binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, preventing the formation of proteins necessary for the bacteria’s growth and survival. Without the ability to produce proteins, the bacteria cannot replicate or repair themselves, leading to their death or inhibition.

Clarithromycin primarily targets Gram-positive bacteria and some Gram-negative bacteria, making it effective in treating respiratory infections, skin infections, and certain types of bacterial stomach infections (like H. pylori). It is often used in combination with other antibiotics for more effective treatment, especially in cases of resistant bacteria.

Is Clarithromycin effective?

Clarithromycin is a medicine that can help treat infections caused by bacteria. When doctors know what kind of bacteria is causing the infection, they can use that information to decide if Clarithromycin is the right medicine to use. They also consider how often certain types of bacteria cause infections in their area and how well different medicines work against those bacteria when making treatment decisions.

How does one know if Clarithromycin is working?

Clarithromycin is a powerful antibiotic that has been used effectively to treat infections caused by bacteria. In one study, 88% of patients taking clarithromycin improved or were cured of their infection. This study involved 223 patients. Another study showed that clarithromycin reduced the risk of a type of bloodstream infection called MAC bacteremia by 69% compared to people who took a placebo. Lastly, 88% of patients treated with clarithromycin saw clinical improvement in a third study. These results were similar to patients treated with a cephalosporin, a different type of antibiotic. Overall, the results show that clarithromycin is effective for treating bacterial infections.

How do I take Clarithromycin?

**Clarithromycin Oral Suspension:** * Can be taken with or without food or milk. **Clarithromycin Extended-Release Tablets:** * Must be taken with food. **Other Food Restrictions:** * No other specific food restrictions are mentioned.

For how long do I take Clarithromycin?

The typical duration of use for Clarithromycin depends on the type and severity of the infection being treated. Generally:

• For respiratory infections (like pneumonia), the typical duration is 7 to 14 days.
• For skin infections, it is usually around 7 to 10 days.
• For H. pylori eradication in combination with other medications, it may be prescribed for 14 days.

How long does it take for Clarithromycin to start working?

Clarithromycin, an antibiotic, starts working quickly, but it's crucial to finish the entire course of treatment for best results. The medicine reaches its maximum levels in your body within a few days or hours, depending on which type you're taking: * Suspension (250 mg every 12 hours): 2-3 days * 1000 mg extended-release tablets: 5-8 hours * 500 mg extended-release tablets: 5-6 hours

How should I store Clarithromycin?

* Don't put the mixed suspension in the fridge. * Keep the mixed suspension at room temperature (between 59° and 86°F) for up to 14 days. * Keep the suspension before mixing it with water below 77°F.

Who should avoid taking Clarithromycin?

**Important Warnings:** * **Allergic reactions:** Clarithromycin can cause severe allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Stop taking it and seek immediate medical help if you experience any of these symptoms. * **Heart problems:** Clarithromycin can prolong your heartbeat and increase the risk of arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). This is especially important if you have existing heart conditions. * **Liver damage:** Clarithromycin can damage your liver, leading to yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, and nausea. If you experience these symptoms, stop taking the medication and consult your doctor. **Medications to Avoid:** Clarithromycin should not be taken with certain other medications, as it can increase their side effects: * Lomitapide, lovastatin, and simvastatin (cholesterol-lowering drugs) * Ergotamine and dihydroergotamine (migraine medications) * Lurasidone (antipsychotic medication) * Colchicine (gout medication), especially if you have kidney or liver problems

Can I take Clarithromycin with other prescription drugs?

Clarithromycin can interact with certain medications. It can increase the effects of some, like colchicine and disopyramide, which can be life-threatening. It can also increase the risk of muscle problems with some cholesterol-lowering drugs, like simvastatin. Additionally, it can cause dizziness and drowsiness when used with certain sedatives, like triazolam. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking Clarithromycin with other medications.

Can I take Clarithromycin with vitamins or supplements?

Clarithromycin may interact with certain vitamins and supplements. Magnesium or calcium supplements can reduce its effectiveness, so take them separately. Probiotics might lower its efficacy, so it's best to take them a few hours apart. Clarithromycin can also increase the effects of Vitamin K antagonists (e.g., warfarin), raising bleeding risk. Always consult a healthcare provider before using supplements with Clarithromycin.

Can Clarithromycin be taken safely while pregnant?

If you are pregnant, it is best to avoid taking Clarithromycin unless there are no other treatment options. If you do become pregnant while taking Clarithromycin, talk to your doctor about the potential risks to your unborn baby.

Can Clarithromycin be taken safely while breastfeeding?

A breastfeeding mother taking 250 mg of clarithromycin twice a day passes on a small amount of the drug (136 mcg/kg/day) to her baby through breast milk. This is less than 2% of the dose she takes and less than 1% of the dose recommended for children over 6 months old. A study found that breastfed babies of mothers taking clarithromycin had similar side effects as babies of mothers taking amoxicillin.

Is Clarithromycin safe for the elderly?

**For older adults with kidney problems:** * The medication's dosage may need to be adjusted. * They may be more likely to have an irregular heartbeat. * The medication may build up in their blood more than usual. **For older adults taking calcium channel blockers:** * Most reports of kidney problems have been in people 65 or older. **For older adults taking clarithromycin:** * They may be more likely to experience toxic effects from colchicine, especially if they also have kidney problems.