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Clarithromycin
kla-RITH-roe-mye-sin   

Clarithromycin

Brand Name: Biaxin
Other Name(s): A-56268, Abbott-56268, TE-031
Drug Class: Opportunistic Infection and Other Drugs
Clarithromycin, also known as Biaxin, belongs to the class of medicines known as antibacterials. Antibacterials kill bacteria or stop bacteria from multiplying. Clarithromycin controls the infection and allows the body's immune system to kill the bacteria. Clarithromycin is used to fight many common bacteria that cause sore throat, ear infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, and skin infections. Clarithromycin can also be used to treat some stomach ulcers.


HIV/AIDS-Related Uses
Clarithromycin is used to prevent and treat Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) disease. MAC is an opportunistic infection caused by types of mycobacteria. Opportunistic infections are more common in people with weakened immune systems, including those with HIV or AIDS. Clarithromycin was approved by the FDA for treatment of MAC on December 23, 1993, and for the prevention of MAC on October 12, 1995. Different doses of the drug may be needed for treatment and prevention. When used for treatment of MAC, clarithromycin should be given together with other antibacterial drugs.


Dosage Form/Administration
Clarithromycin comes in immediate-release and extended-release tablet forms and in liquid form and is taken by mouth. Both the immediate-release tablet and liquid forms may be taken with or without food, but the extended-release tablet should be taken with food.

Contraindications
Individuals should tell a doctor about any medical conditions before taking this medicine. Clarithromycin should not be used during pregnancy unless no other drugs will work against the infection.

Possible Side Effects
Along with its desired effects, clarithromycin can cause some serious unwanted effects. Serious side effects of this medicine include severe abdominal pain, fever, severe nausea and vomiting, unusual bleeding or bruising, watery or bloody diarrhea, yellow skin or eyes, or skin rash and itching. Individuals should tell a doctor if they have any of these side effects.Other side effects may not be serious and may lessen or disappear with continued use of the medicine. Less serious side effects of this medicine include diarrhea, headache, nausea and vomiting, and change in taste. Individuals should tell a doctor if these side effects continue or are bothersome.

Drug and Food Interactions
A doctor should be notified of any other medications being taken, including prescription, nonprescription (over-the-counter), and herbal medications.


Clinical Trials
Click here to search ClinicalTrials.gov for trials that use Clarithromycin.

Manufacturer Information
Biaxin
Abbott Laboratories
One Hundred Abbott Park Rd
Abbott Park, IL 60064-3500
Phone: 800-633-9110

Clarithromycin
Abbott Laboratories
One Hundred Abbott Park Rd
Abbott Park, IL 60064-3500
Phone: 800-633-9110
Last Updated: January 11, 2008