Clarithromycin Tablets BP 250mg

Product Description

Clarithromycin Tablets BP 250mg is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. It belongs to the class of antibiotics known as macrolides and works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, thereby preventing them from multiplying and causing infection.

Active Ingredient:

• Clarithromycin: It works by interfering with the bacteria's ability to produce proteins, which are essential for their growth and reproduction. This helps to stop the infection from spreading.

Common Uses:

Clarithromycin is prescribed for the treatment of a variety of bacterial infections, including:

• Respiratory tract infections:
  • Pneumonia (especially caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae).
  • Bronchitis and sinusitis.
  • Pharyngitis (sore throat) and tonsillitis.
• Skin and soft tissue infections: This includes infections like cellulitis and impetigo caused by susceptible bacteria.
• Ear infections (Otitis media): Infections of the middle ear.
• Helicobacter pylori infection: Clarithromycin is often used in combination with other medications to treat H. pylori infections, which are associated with peptic ulcers.
• Chlamydia infections: It can be used to treat infections caused by Chlamydia pneumoniae.
• Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection: Used in combination therapy for people with advanced HIV/AIDS to prevent or treat MAC infection.

Dosage and Administration:

• Concentration: Each tablet contains 250mg of Clarithromycin.

• Typical dosage for adults:

  • For most infections, the usual dose is 250mg twice a day for 7 to 14 days, depending on the severity of the infection.
  • In some cases, particularly for more severe infections or for Helicobacter pylori eradication, the dose may be increased to 500mg twice a day.

• Children's dosage: The dosage for children is based on their weight and the condition being treated. A typical dose for children could range from 7.5 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 250 mg per dose) twice daily.

• How to take: Clarithromycin should be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take the tablet with a full glass of water. If you have trouble swallowing tablets, speak to your healthcare provider about alternatives such as liquid formulations.

Side Effects:

• Common side effects:
  • Gastrointestinal disturbances: Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or indigestion.
  • Taste disturbance: Some people report a strange or metallic taste.
  • Headache or dizziness.
• Serious side effects (less common):
  • Liver problems: Symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or abdominal pain.
  • Severe allergic reactions: Rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and difficulty breathing.
  • QT prolongation: Clarithromycin can affect the heart™s rhythm, causing QT interval prolongation, which can lead to a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat). This is especially a concern in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
  • Muscle pain or weakness: Rare, but could indicate muscle damage, especially when used in combination with certain other drugs.

Precautions and Warnings:

• Allergic reactions: If you have a known allergy to clarithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics like erythromycin, you should not take clarithromycin.
• Liver or kidney disease: Clarithromycin is processed by the liver, so caution is needed in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustments may be necessary for patients with renal impairment (kidney problems).
• Heart issues: If you have heart disease or a history of arrhythmias, be cautious as clarithromycin may affect your heart's electrical activity and increase the risk of severe arrhythmias.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Clarithromycin is considered safe to use during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks (Category C). It passes into breast milk, so consult a healthcare provider if breastfeeding.
• Drug interactions: Clarithromycin may interact with several medications, including statins, blood thinners (like warfarin), certain antihistamines, and anti-seizure drugs. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

When to consult a doctor:

• If you develop severe diarrhea, particularly if it is watery or bloody (a possible sign of Clostridium difficile infection, which can occur after antibiotic use).
• If you experience any signs of liver problems (yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or pain in the upper abdomen).
• If you have any symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
• If your infection doesn™t improve or if it gets worse despite taking the antibiotic as prescribed.

Conclusion:

Clarithromycin Tablets 250mg is an effective antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is important to take it exactly as prescribed and to complete the full course of treatment to prevent antibiotic resistance. Be aware of potential side effects and interactions with other medications. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns regarding your treatment.