About clarithromycin
Macrolide antibiotic
Used for
- Treats certain serious bacterial infections when intravenous treatment is needed.
Usual adult dose
Usually 500 mg intravenously every 12 hours; dose may be reduced in severe kidney impairment.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain
- Taste changes
- Injection-site pain or inflammation
- Liver problems or abnormal heart rhythm
Important warnings
- Use only for bacterial infections; it does not treat viral illnesses.
- Can prolong the heart’s electrical rhythm and rarely cause serious arrhythmias.
- Seek medical review for severe diarrhoea, jaundice, or allergic reactions.
- Dose adjustment may be needed with kidney or liver impairment.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed after medical assessment; safety information is limited.
Breastfeeding
Passes into breast milk. Infant diarrhoea or thrush may occur; discuss use with a clinician.
Interactions
- Some statins, including simvastatin and lovastatin, can cause severe muscle injury.
- Warfarin and some other blood thinners may increase bleeding risk.
- Colchicine can cause serious toxicity, especially with kidney or liver problems.
- Other medicines affecting heart rhythm may increase arrhythmia risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.