Box of Clarithromycin Tablets for respiratory infections

Clarithromycin Tablets

Price range: £24.99 through £29.95

Clarithromycin Tablets are a prescription antibiotic used to treat chest, skin, throat, and stomach infections.
Available in 250mg and 500mg strengths.
Common alternative for patients allergic to penicillin.
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Clarithromycin Tablets are a macrolide antibiotic used to treat a range of bacterial infections. They are commonly prescribed when patients cannot take penicillin-based antibiotics or for specific conditions that respond better to macrolides. Clarithromycin is particularly effective in treating respiratory infections, throat and sinus infections, skin infections, and bacterial stomach ulcers caused by H. pylori (as part of combination therapy). It is suitable for adults and children (age-dependent dosage) and is available in 250mg and 500mg strengths.

How It Works

Clarithromycin works by stopping the growth of bacteria. It binds to the bacterial ribosomes, preventing them from producing essential proteins. Without these proteins, the bacteria cannot grow or replicate, and the infection is cleared by the body’s immune system. This makes Clarithromycin a bacteriostatic agent, effective against many common pathogens, including atypical bacteria not well-covered by penicillins.

Clarithromycin is rapidly absorbed into the body and reaches high tissue concentrations, making it especially useful for chest, throat, and sinus infections.

Why Choose Clarithromycin Tablets

Clarithromycin Tablets for infection are a reliable and trusted option when penicillin alternatives are required. They offer broad-spectrum action against common bacteria and are often used as part of dual or triple therapy for eradicating H. pylori when managing stomach ulcers. The twice-daily dosing is convenient and fits easily into daily routines.

Clarithromycin is often better tolerated than some older macrolides and has a more targeted spectrum than broad-spectrum antibiotics, which helps reduce the risk of resistance when used correctly.

Important Note

Clarithromycin may interact with several medicines, especially statins, warfarin, and other antibiotics. Always inform your doctor about all medicines you take. Complete the full prescribed course even if you feel better. Store below 25°C and keep out of reach of children. Do not use leftover antibiotics for future infections.

Directions

Note: Always follow your doctor’s instructions or the pharmacy label.

  • Dosage and Frequency: Usually 250mg or 500mg twice daily

  • Application: Swallow with water. May be taken with or without food

  • Safety Reminders:

    • Avoid missed doses

    • Complete full course

    • Do not take with grapefruit juice

Storage:

  • Store below 25°C

  • Keep in original packaging

  • Keep out of reach of children

Ingredients

Active Ingredient:

  • Clarithromycin 250 mg or 500 mg

Other Ingredients:

  • Lactose monohydrate

  • Povidone

  • Magnesium stearate

  • Microcrystalline cellulose

  • Talc

  • Hypromellose

  • Titanium dioxide

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

  • Nausea

  • Diarrhoea

  • Taste disturbance

  • Abdominal discomfort

  • Headache

Serious (rare) side effects:

  • Liver problems (jaundice)

  • Irregular heart rhythm

  • Severe allergic reaction

  • Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea

Stop the medicine and seek medical attention if serious side effects occur.

Warnings

Do not take Clarithromycin if you are allergic to macrolide antibiotics. It is not recommended for people with liver dysfunction, QT prolongation, or those taking medications that interact with CYP3A4 enzymes. Caution is advised in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Avoid alcohol and grapefruit juice during treatment.

  • While alcohol does not directly affect the medication, it’s best to avoid drinking as it may increase the risk of side effects like stomach upset.

  • Yes. Clarithromycin can be taken with or without food, but taking it with a meal may help reduce nausea.

  • Clarithromycin usually begins working within 1–2 days, but symptoms may take a few more days to improve depending on the infection.

  • Yes, Clarithromycin is often prescribed as an alternative to penicillin for patients with allergies.

  • It is used for a variety of bacterial infections including chest infections, throat infections, sinusitis, skin infections, and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) in stomach ulcers.

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