Biaxin / Clarithromycin is a Macrolide antibiotic and is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and infections of the ears, lungs, sinuses, skin, and throat. It also is used to prevent disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It is used in combination with other medications to eliminate H. pylori and is sometimes used to treat Lyme disease and toxoplasmosis. It is also used sometimes to prevent heart infection in patients having dental or other procedures.
Directions
Biaxin / Clarithromycin comes as a tablet to take by mouth. The regular tablet is usually taken with or without food every 12 hours (twice a day) for 7-14 days. To help you remember to take clarithromycin, take it around the same time every day.
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take clarithromycin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
The tablets should be taken with a full glass of water.
Take Biaxin / Clarithromycin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Stopping clarithromycin too soon may cause bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics.
Side Effects
Biaxin / Clarithromycin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea
- upset stomach
- abnormal taste
- stomach pain
- headache
Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
- severe skin rash
- hives
- itching
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
Biaxin / Clarithromycin may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
If you take too much (Overdose)
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
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