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Clarithromycin

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Clarithromycin is used for the treatment of infections including those of the chest, skin and ear. It is also used for some types of stomach ulcer.
Even if your condition improves it is important to complete the prescribed course of clarithromycin or your infection could come back.
The most common side effects are feeling sick, being sick, tummy pain, diarrhoea and indigestion or heartburn. You can try taking it with food to help stop this if it does occur.

About clarithromycin

Type of medicine	Antibiotic
Used for	Treatment of infections including chest, skin, ear and some types of stomach ulcers.
Also called	Klaricid®; Klaricid® XL;
Available as	Tablet; liquid; granule; modified release tablet

Clarithromycin is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections; it works by killing bacteria that cause the infection.

Before taking clarithromycin

Before taking clarithromycin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
If you suffer from diabetes
If you suffer from liver problems
If you suffer from kidney problems
If you suffer from heart problems
If you suffer from porphyria (a blood disorder)

How to take clarithromycin

Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
Swallow clarithromycin tablets whole (not crushed or chewed), with plenty of water.
Dissolve or mix clarithromycin granules in water before taking.
Try to take this medicine at regular intervals, as directed by your doctor, to keep a steady level of clarithromycin in your body.
Try not to miss any doses. If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Never take two doses at the same time to compensate.

Getting the most from your treatment

Even if your condition has improved it is important to complete the prescribed course of clarithromycin. If you stop taking this medicine too soon your infection is likely to return and could be more difficult to treat.
Some people develop thrush after taking a course of antibiotics. If you think you have thrush speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
If you are taking oral contraceptives, you should follow the advice in your 'pill booklet'. If you are unsure ask for advice from your doctor or pharmacist.

Can clarithromycin cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine	What can I do if I experience this
Nausea (feeling sick), vomiting (being sick), abdominal pain	Try taking the medicine immediately after food. Drink plenty of liquid. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast. If vomiting continues to be a problem speak to your doctor.
Diarrhoea	Drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids. If diarrhoea continues to be a problem speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
Indigestion or heartburn	Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable remedy. If this continues speak with your doctor.
Tooth or tongue discolouration and changes in taste	This will usually disappear after you finish your treatment. It is harmless.
Sore throat with inflamed gums, lips or tongue	Speak with your doctor if this becomes a problem.
Headache	Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If headache continues speak with your doctor.
Changes in sense of smell

Clarithromycin can also cause other side effects but they are much less common, if you experience any other problems that you think may be caused by your medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

Important: If you experience a skin rash, itching, fever (high temperature), jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) or joint pains, stop taking clarithromycin and contact your doctor immediately.

How to store clarithromycin

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk

DocID: 3421

DocRef: dils2509

Last Reviewed: 7 Feb 2007

Version: 23

The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest. Find out more about updating.

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