KLARION-500

# Clarithromycin 500 mg ## SHORT DESCRIPTION Clarithromycin 500 mg is a **macrolide antibiotic** used to treat certain bacterial infections. It works by stopping susceptible bacteria from producing proteins necessary for their growth and multiplication. It may be prescribed for respiratory tract infections, certain skin and soft-tissue infections, and as part of combination therapy for **Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)** infection. Clarithromycin does **not** treat viral infections such as the common cold or influenza. ## KEY BENEFITS * Helps treat susceptible bacterial infections * Effective against a range of respiratory tract bacteria * May be used for certain skin and soft-tissue infections * Can be used in combination therapy to eradicate *H. pylori* * Provides antibacterial activity against susceptible Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms * Available as an oral antibiotic for convenient administration ## USES / INDICATIONS Clarithromycin 500 mg may be prescribed for: * Community-acquired pneumonia * Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis * Acute bacterial sinusitis * Pharyngitis or tonsillitis caused by susceptible bacteria * Certain skin and soft-tissue infections * Certain atypical respiratory infections * *Helicobacter pylori* eradication as part of combination therapy The exact approved uses may vary by country and product. Clarithromycin should only be used when a bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed to be susceptible to the antibiotic. ## HOW IT WORKS Clarithromycin binds to the **50S subunit of bacterial ribosomes** and inhibits bacterial protein synthesis. By preventing susceptible bacteria from producing essential proteins, clarithromycin stops their growth and helps the immune system eliminate the infection. ## DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION * Take clarithromycin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. * For many adult infections, the usual dose is **250 mg twice daily**, while **500 mg twice daily** may be prescribed for more severe infections or specific indications. * The exact dose and treatment duration depend on the type and severity of infection, age, kidney function and other medicines being taken. * Clarithromycin may generally be taken with or without food. * Swallow the tablet whole with water if using an immediate-release tablet. * Take doses at evenly spaced times. * Complete the prescribed course even if you start feeling better, unless your doctor tells you to stop. * Do not share antibiotics with another person. ### Missed Dose Take the missed dose when you remember unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not take two doses together to compensate for a missed dose. ## SIDE EFFECTS Common side effects may include: * Nausea * Vomiting * Diarrhea * Abdominal pain or discomfort * Indigestion * Headache * Changes in taste * Loss of appetite Less common but serious side effects may include: * Severe or persistent diarrhea * Liver problems * Allergic reactions * Hearing disturbances * Abnormal heart rhythm or QT prolongation * Severe skin reactions Seek immediate medical attention if you develop difficulty breathing, facial or throat swelling, severe skin reactions, fainting or a rapid/irregular heartbeat. ## PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS * Do not use clarithromycin if you have a serious allergy to clarithromycin, erythromycin or other macrolide antibiotics. * Inform your doctor if you have a history of **QT prolongation or abnormal heart rhythms**. * Tell your doctor if you have low potassium or magnesium levels. * Inform your doctor if you have liver disease or significant kidney impairment. * Clarithromycin may require dose adjustment in patients with reduced kidney function. * Tell your doctor if you have previously experienced liver problems associated with antibiotic treatment. * Seek medical attention if severe or persistent diarrhea develops during or after treatment. * Do not use antibiotics for viral infections unless specifically prescribed for a bacterial complication. * Complete the prescribed course unless your healthcare professional advises otherwise. * Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding. ## DRUG INTERACTIONS Clarithromycin has **significant drug-interaction potential** because it can inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme and affect other drug transport and metabolism pathways. Important interactions include: * **Simvastatin and lovastatin** — combination is contraindicated because of increased risk of serious muscle toxicity. * **Certain calcium-channel blockers** such as verapamil and diltiazem — may increase the risk of low blood pressure, kidney problems and other adverse effects. * **Warfarin and other anticoagulants** — may increase bleeding risk; monitoring may be required. * **Digoxin** — clarithromycin may increase digoxin levels. * **Colchicine** — potentially serious or life-threatening toxicity can occur, particularly in patients with kidney or liver impairment. * **Carbamazepine** — clarithromycin may increase carbamazepine concentrations. * **Certain antiarrhythmic medicines** — may increase the risk of dangerous heart-rhythm disturbances. * **Ergotamine or dihydroergotamine** — may cause serious ergot toxicity and should not be combined. * **Some sedatives and other CYP3A4 substrates** — concentrations may increase. * **Certain HIV medicines and other anti-infective medicines** may require specific dose adjustments. This is not a complete list. Always provide your doctor or pharmacist with a complete list of your medicines, vitamins and supplements. ## STORAGE INFORMATION * Store according to the manufacturer's instructions. * Keep tablets in their original packaging. * Protect from excessive heat and moisture. * Keep away from direct sunlight. * Keep out of reach of children. * Do not use after the expiry date. * Do not use tablets if the packaging is damaged or the medicine appears abnormal. ## PRESCRIPTION STATUS **Prescription medicine.** Clarithromycin 500 mg should be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Prescription requirements may vary according to local regulations. ## GENUINE MEDICINE ASSURANCE For safe and genuine medicine use: * Purchase Clarithromycin 500 mg only from a licensed and reputable pharmacy. * Check the medicine name, strength, batch number and expiry date. * Ensure the packaging and seal are intact. * Do not purchase medicines from unauthorized or suspicious sources. * Avoid medicines with damaged, altered or incomplete packaging. * Check that the tablets and packaging match the prescribed product. * Consult a pharmacist if you have concerns about product authenticity. ## FAQ ### What is Clarithromycin 500 mg used for? Clarithromycin 500 mg is an antibiotic used to treat certain **bacterial infections**, including some respiratory infections, skin infections and, in combination with other medicines, *H. pylori* infection. ### Is Clarithromycin 500 mg an antibiotic? Yes. Clarithromycin is a **macrolide antibiotic**. ### Does Clarithromycin treat viral infections? No. Clarithromycin does not treat viral infections such as the common cold, influenza or most viral sore throats. ### How does Clarithromycin work? It prevents susceptible bacteria from producing essential proteins by binding to the bacterial 50S ribosomal subunit. This inhibits bacterial growth. ### How often should Clarithromycin 500 mg be taken? For some adult infections, 500 mg may be prescribed **twice daily**, but the appropriate dose depends on the infection and the patient's medical condition. Follow your doctor's prescription. ### Should Clarithromycin 500 mg be taken with food? Immediate-release clarithromycin tablets can generally be taken with or without food. Follow the instructions supplied with your specific product. ### How long should I take Clarithromycin 500 mg? Treatment duration depends on the type and severity of the infection. Take it for the full duration prescribed by your doctor. ### Can I stop Clarithromycin when I feel better? Do not stop the antibiotic early unless your doctor tells you to. Stopping treatment prematurely can result in treatment failure or recurrence of infection. ### Can Clarithromycin 500 mg cause diarrhea? Yes. Diarrhea is a common antibiotic-related side effect. Severe, persistent or bloody diarrhea may indicate a more serious intestinal infection and requires medical evaluation. ### Can Clarithromycin cause a metallic or altered taste? Yes. Changes in taste, including an unpleasant or metallic taste, are known side effects of clarithromycin and usually resolve after treatment. ### Can Clarithromycin affect the heart? Clarithromycin can prolong the **QT interval** and may increase the risk of serious abnormal heart rhythms in susceptible individuals. Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart rhythm problems or take medicines that prolong the QT interval. ### Can Clarithromycin be taken with statins? Some statins interact significantly with clarithromycin. In particular, **simvastatin and lovastatin should not be combined with clarithromycin**. Tell your doctor which cholesterol medicine you take before starting treatment. ### Can Clarithromycin be taken with warfarin? Clarithromycin may increase the effects of warfarin and increase bleeding risk. Your healthcare professional may need to monitor your blood clotting more closely. ### Can Clarithromycin be used during pregnancy? Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding. Your doctor will determine whether clarithromycin is appropriate based on the potential benefits and risks. ### Can children take Clarithromycin 500 mg? Clarithromycin can be used in children for certain infections, but the dose is usually based on age and/or body weight. A 500 mg tablet may not be appropriate for every child. ### What should I do if I miss a dose of Clarithromycin? Take the missed dose when you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose. ### What happens if I take too much Clarithromycin? An overdose may cause gastrointestinal symptoms and other adverse effects. Contact a healthcare professional or emergency medical service if you have taken significantly more than prescribed. ### Why is Clarithromycin used with other medicines for H. pylori? *H. pylori* infection can be difficult to eradicate with one antibiotic. Clarithromycin may therefore be combined with other medicines, such as an acid-suppressing medicine and another antibiotic, as part of an appropriate eradication regimen. ### Can antibiotic resistance occur with Clarithromycin? Yes. Bacteria can become resistant to clarithromycin. Using antibiotics only when necessary and taking them exactly as prescribed helps reduce inappropriate antibiotic use and resistance. ## MEDICAL DISCLAIMER This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Clarithromycin 500 mg is a prescription antibiotic and should be used only when prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. The appropriate dose and duration depend on the infection, kidney and liver function, age and other medicines being taken. Clarithromycin has important drug interactions, so provide your doctor or pharmacist with a complete medication history before use.