About clarithromycin + tablet
Macrolide antibiotic
Used for
- Certain bacterial respiratory infections, including pneumonia and bronchitis
- Throat, sinus, and ear infections
- Skin and soft-tissue infections
- Part of combination treatment for Helicobacter pylori
Usual adult dose
Usually 250–500 mg twice daily for 5–14 days; regimens vary by infection. H. pylori treatment uses combination therapy.
Usual dose in children
Usually 7.5 mg/kg twice daily, up to 500 mg per dose; duration depends on infection.
Common side effects
- Nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
- Taste changes
- Headache
- Liver problems or abnormal heart rhythm, rarely
Important warnings
- Use only for bacterial infections; it does not treat viral illnesses.
- Seek urgent care for severe allergic reactions, jaundice, or fainting.
- Can prolong the QT interval; caution with heart rhythm problems or low potassium.
- Dose adjustment may be needed with kidney impairment.
Pregnancy
Use only when clinically necessary; discuss risks and benefits with a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk; monitor for infant diarrhoea, rash, or thrush.
Interactions
- Major interactions include simvastatin, lovastatin, colchicine, and some heart-rhythm medicines.
- May interact with warfarin, digoxin, carbamazepine, and some seizure medicines.
- Avoid combining with other medicines that prolong the QT interval unless advised.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.