CLARITHROMYCIN
Background and Date of Approval
Clarithromycin is an antibiotic medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It received initial approval on 26 October 1991 for the treatment of respiratory tract infections.
Uses
Clarithromycin helps to treat various bacterial infections, including skin infections, respiratory tract infections, and certain types of stomach ulcers caused by a bacteria called H. pylori, which is related to peptic ulcer disease.
How is it administered?
Clarithromycin will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. It is usually administered as an intravenous injection into a vein. Your physician will decide the dose, route of administration, and frequency based on your disease condition and other factors.
Side Effects
The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Clarithromycin are Injection site reactions (pain, tenderness), increased sweating, alterations in the sense of taste, sleeping troubles, widening of blood vessels, headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea.
Warnings
Suppose you have a history of jaundice or liver problems that occurred while taking Clarithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics in the past. In that case, informing your healthcare provider about this medical history is important. Individuals who have previously experienced those conditions may have an increased risk of developing further liver problems or experiencing a recurrence of jaundice if exposed to the drug again. Your doctor will consider this information when prescribing medications and may recommend alternative antibiotics less likely to cause liver problems or choose a different approach to manage your condition.
Precautions
This drug can increase the chance of side effects that affect the heart, particularly by prolonging the QT interval. Prolongation of the QT interval leads to a serious heart rhythm abnormality called torsades de pointes. Before taking Clarithromycin, it is important to be aware of the side effects and discuss them with your healthcare provider. It is advised to avoid using the drug if you are mainly allergic to it or its ingredients.
Word of Advice
Complete the full course of Clarithromycin as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before treatment concludes. Stopping early can result in incomplete infection eradication and allow bacteria to develop resistance. Contact your doctor if symptoms worsen or do not improve during treatment. Your doctor may need to reassess your condition and modify your treatment plan if necessary. Clarithromycin is prescribed for your specific condition and should not be shared with others, including those with similar symptoms.
References
Ibrigen S.r.l, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [ Revised on Nov 2021] [ Accessed on 30th May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.8825.pdf Package leaflet: Information for the user - Clarithromycin. www.hpra.ie . [Revised on July 2022], Available at: https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/4869e2cd-19c1-41cf-887d-d8632748caab.pdf (Accessed on 30th May 2023). Goodman & Gilmanâs, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Protein synthesis inhibitors and miscellaneous antibacterial agents, 12th edition, 2011, 1529 -1534. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Macrolide and other antibacterial antibiotics, 7th edition, 2013, 754.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Clarithromycin work?
Clarithromycin works by inhibiting the growth and spread of bacteria. It does this by interfering with their ability to produce proteins essential for survival.
What conditions does Clarithromycin treat?
Clarithromycin is commonly used to treat respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and sinusitis. It is also effective against skin and soft tissue infections and certain bacterial stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori.
Can Clarithromycin be used for viral infections?
No, Clarithromycin is only effective against bacterial infections. It has no activity against viral infections, such as the common cold or influenza.
What are the possible drug interactions with Clarithromycin?
Clarithromycin may interact with other medications, including certain blood thinners, antifungal drugs, HIV medications, and cholesterol-lowering drugs. Before initiating the treatment, you must inform your physician about all your medications, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins.
Can Clarithromycin be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Clarithromycin is considered safe during pregnancy only if necessary, and the benefits outweigh the risks. It can pass into breast milk, so caution should be exercised when using this drug while breastfeeding.