Clarithromycin is part of a group of antibiotics called macrolides. Clarithromycin works by destroying some types of bacteria that cause certain infections. Clarithromycin may be used to treat infections that are caused by bacteria in the chest, throat, sinuses and ear [particularly inflammation of middle ear (otitis media)] and infections of the skin and the layers of flesh just under the skin. Clarithromycin Oral Suspension is used in children 6 months to 12 years old.
Clarithromycin is a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic. Chemically, it is 6-0-methylerythromycin. The molecular formula is C38H69NO13, and the molecular weight is 747.96. Clarithromycin is a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is soluble in acetone, slightly soluble in methanol, ethanol, and acetonitrile, and practically insoluble in water.
Antimicrobial Spectrum:
Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Bordetella pertussis, Chlamydia trachomatis, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Gardnerella vaginalis, H. influenzae, Legionella pneumophila, Moraxella catarrhalis, Mycobacterium spp., Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Pasteurella multocida, S. pneumoniae, S. pyogenes.
Mechanism of Action:
Macrolides inhibit protein synthesis. They impair the elongation cycle of the peptidyl chain by specifically binding to the 50 S subunit of the ribosome.
Clarithromycin Oral Suspension with food and drink
Clarithromycin Oral Suspension may be taken with or without food.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding
The safety of clarithromycin in pregnancy and breast-feeding is not known and it is not usually given during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless it is considered very necessary. As clarithromycin may be given to girls of childbearing age, you should speak to your Doctor before giving this medicine if pregnancy is known or suspected.
Driving and using machines
Clarithromycin is known to cause dizziness, vertigo, confusion, and disorientation. This may affect your child’s ability to drive and use machines. Make sure you know how your child reacts to clarithromycin before he/she drives, uses machines, or engages in any other activity that could be dangerous if he/she is not alert.
Clarithromycin Oral Suspension contains sucrose
If you have been told by your doctor that your child has an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before giving this medicinal product.
Clarithromycin Oral Suspension also contains aspartame
Aspartame is a source of phenylalanine. It may be harmful for people with phenylketonuria.
How to take Clarithromycin
Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Clarithromycin may be taken with or without food
Clarithromycin 500 mg film-coated tablet is not suitable for doses below 500 mg.
Adults including the elderly and adolescents (children over 12 years)
The usual dose is 250 mg twice a day.
The usual dose is 250 mg twice daily.
In severe infections, your doctor may increase the dose to 500 mg twice daily. The treatment takes 7-14 days and should last at least two days after the disappearance of the symptoms.
Use in infections with H. pylori:
In adult patients with ulcers of stomach and duodenum by infection with H. Pylori, as a part of triple combination therapy administered usual dose is 500 mg twice a day.
Possible side effects
If any of the following happens, stop taking this medicine and tell your doctor immediately or go to the casualty department at your nearest hospital:
• Allergic reactions such as sudden difficulty in breathing, speaking and swallowing
• Extreme dizziness or fainting
• Severe or itchy skin rash, especially if this shows blistering and there is soreness of the eyes, mouth or genital organs
