Clarithromycin

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Clarithromycin⁚ An Essential Guide

Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including those of the skin, respiratory tract, and ears. It works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria, thereby preventing their growth and multiplication.

Clarithromycin is typically taken orally, with or without food. The usual dosage for adults is 250-500 mg every 12 hours. The duration of treatment will vary depending on the type and severity of the infection.

Clarithromycin is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects may occur, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache, and rash. These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own. However, if you experience any severe side effects, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek medical attention immediately.

Clarithromycin may interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, and statins. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting clarithromycin.

Clarithromycin is an effective and well-tolerated antibiotic that can be used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. However, it is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor and to be aware of the potential side effects and interactions.

Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including those of the skin, respiratory tract, and ears. It is also used to prevent and treat Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infections in patients with HIV/AIDS. Clarithromycin works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria, thereby preventing their growth and multiplication.

Clarithromycin was first approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1991. It is available as a generic medication and under the brand name Biaxin. Clarithromycin is typically taken orally, with or without food. The usual dosage for adults is 250-500 mg every 12 hours. The duration of treatment will vary depending on the type and severity of the infection.

Mechanism of action

Clarithromycin binds to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, thereby inhibiting protein synthesis. This prevents the bacteria from growing and multiplying. Clarithromycin is particularly effective against Gram-positive bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. It is also active against some Gram-negative bacteria, such as Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis.

Spectrum of activity

Clarithromycin has a broad spectrum of activity against a wide range of bacteria, including⁚

Gram-positive bacteria⁚ Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus viridans, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium, Listeria monocytogenes, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Bacillus anthracis, Clostridium perfringens, Clostridium difficile, Peptostreptococcus species, Propionibacterium acnes

Gram-negative bacteria⁚ Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Bordetella pertussis, Legionella pneumophila, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Campylobacter jejuni, Helicobacter pylori

Atypical bacteria⁚ Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), Mycobacterium kansasii, Mycobacterium marinum, Mycobacterium chelonae, Mycobacterium fortuitum

Pharmacokinetics

Clarithromycin is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 2-4 hours. Clarithromycin is widely distributed throughout the body and is concentrated in the lungs, tonsils, and middle ear fluid. It is also distributed into breast milk.

Clarithromycin is metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system. The major metabolite, 14-hydroxyclarithromycin, is also microbiologically active. Clarithromycin is excreted in the urine and feces.

For children, the dosage of clarithromycin is based on body weight. The usual dosage is 7.5-15 mg/kg/day, divided into two doses.

Clarithromycin may also be given intravenously (IV) in a hospital setting. The usual dosage for adults is 500 mg every 12 hours.

Side effects

Clarithromycin is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects may occur, including⁚

Gastrointestinal side effects⁚ nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, indigestion, heartburn

Headache

Rash

Itching

Hives

Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)

Difficulty breathing

Liver damage

Kidney damage

Hearing loss

Vision problems

If you experience any of these side effects, be sure to tell your doctor.

Drug interactions

Clarithromycin may interact with other medications, including⁚

Anticoagulants (blood thinners)⁚ Clarithromycin may increase the effects of anticoagulants, which could lead to bleeding.

Anticonvulsants⁚ Clarithromycin may increase the levels of anticonvulsants in the blood, which could lead to side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and seizures.

Statins⁚ Clarithromycin may increase the levels of statins in the blood, which could lead to side effects such as muscle pain, weakness, and damage.

Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting clarithromycin.

Clarithromycin is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to it or to any of its ingredients. It is also contraindicated in patients who are taking certain medications, such as cisapride, pimozide, or ter

Uses of Clarithromycin

Respiratory tract infections

Clarithromycin is commonly used to treat respiratory tract infections, such as⁚

Bronchitis

Pneumonia

Sinusitis

Tonsillitis

Pharyngitis

Otitis media

Clarithromycin is particularly effective against infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.

Skin infections

Clarithromycin is also used to treat skin infections, such as⁚

Cellulitis

Erysipelas

Impetigo

Folliculitis

Acne vulgaris

Clarithromycin is particularly effective against infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes.

Other infections

Clarithromycin may also be used to treat other infections, such as⁚

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infections

Helicobacter pylori infections

Chlamydia trachomatis infections

Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections

Ureaplasma urealyticum infections

Unlabeled uses

Clarithromycin may also be used to treat certain unlabeled conditions, such as⁚

Cat scratch disease

Lyme disease

Q fever

Whipple's disease

Nongonococcal urethritis

It is important to note that clarithromycin is not effective against viral infections, such as the common cold or flu;

How to use clarithromycin

For children, the dosage of clarithromycin is based on body weight. The usual dosage is 7.5-15 mg/kg/day, divided into two doses.

Clarithromycin may also be given intravenously (IV) in a hospital setting. The usual dosage for adults is 500 mg every 12 hours.

If you miss a dose of clarithromycin, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses at once.

Store clarithromycin at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.

Clarithromycin may cause serious side effects, including⁚

Allergic reactions

Liver damage

Kidney damage

Hearing loss

Vision problems

Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions before taking clarithromycin.

Clarithromycin may also interact with other medications. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting clarithromycin.

If you experience any serious side effects while taking clarithromycin, seek medical attention immediately.

Dosage of Clarithromycin

The dosage of clarithromycin will vary depending on the type and severity of the infection being treated. The usual dosage for adults is 250-500 mg every 12 hours. For children, the dosage is based on body weight and is typically 7.5-15 mg/kg/day, divided into two doses.

Dosage for specific infections

The following table provides the usual dosage of clarithromycin for specific infections⁚

| Infection | Dosage |

|---|---|---|

| Bronchitis | 250-500 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days |

| Pneumonia | 250-500 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days |

| Sinusitis | 250-500 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days |

| Tonsillitis | 250-500 mg every 12 hours for 5-10 days |

| Pharyngitis | 250-500 mg every 12 hours for 5-10 days |

| Otitis media | 250-500 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days |

| Cellulitis | 250-500 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days |

| Erysipelas | 250-500 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days |

| Impetigo | 250-500 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days |

| Folliculitis | 250-500 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days |

| Acne vulgaris | 250-500 mg every 12 hours for 12-16 weeks |

| Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infections | 500 mg every 12 hours for 6-12 months |

| Helicobacter pylori infections | 500 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days |

| Chlamydia trachomatis infections | 500 mg every 12 hours for 7 days |

| Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections | 500 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days |

| Ureaplasma urealyticum infections | 500 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days |

Clarithromycin may cause serious side effects, including⁚

Allergic reactions

Liver damage

Kidney damage

Hearing loss

Vision problems

Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions before taking clarithromycin.

Clarithromycin may also interact with other medications. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting clarithromycin.

If you experience any serious side effects while taking clarithromycin, seek medical attention immediately.

Side Effects of Clarithromycin

Clarithromycin is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects may occur. The most common side effects include⁚

Gastrointestinal side effects⁚ nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, indigestion, heartburn

Headache

Rash

Itching

Hives

These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own. However, if you experience any severe side effects, such as⁚

Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)

Difficulty breathing

Liver damage

Kidney damage

Hearing loss

Vision problems

Seek medical attention immediately.

Allergic reactions

Clarithromycin may cause allergic reactions, including⁚

Anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening)

Rash

Hives

Itching

Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Difficulty breathing

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Liver damage

Clarithromycin may cause liver damage, especially in people who have liver disease or who are taking other medications that can damage the liver. Symptoms of liver damage include⁚

Nausea

Vomiting

Abdominal pain

Dark urine

Light-colored stools

Yellowing of the skin or eyes

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking clarithromycin and seek medical attention immediately.

Kidney damage

Clarithromycin may cause kidney damage, especially in people who have kidney disease or who are taking other medications that can damage the kidneys. Symptoms of kidney damage include⁚

Decreased urine output

Swelling of the hands, feet, or ankles

Fatigue

Confusion

Seizures

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking clarithromycin and seek medical attention immediately.

Hearing loss

Clarithromycin may cause hearing loss, especially in people who are taking high doses of the medication for a long period of time. Symptoms of hearing loss include⁚

Difficulty hearing

Ringing in the ears

Dizziness

Loss of balance

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking clarithromycin and seek medical attention immediately.

Vision problems

Clarithromycin may cause vision problems, especially in people who are taking high doses of the medication for a long period of time. Symptoms of vision problems include⁚

Blurred vision

Double vision

Loss of vision

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking clarithromycin and seek medical attention immediately.

Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions before taking clarithromycin⁚

Liver disease

Kidney disease

Hearing loss

Vision problems

Clarithromycin may also interact with other medications. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting clarithromycin.

If you experience any serious side effects while taking clarithromycin, seek medical attention immediately.

Interactions of Clarithromycin

Clarithromycin may interact with other medications, including⁚

Anticoagulants (blood thinners)⁚ Clarithromycin may increase the effects of anticoagulants, which could lead to bleeding.

Anticonvulsants⁚ Clarithromycin may increase the levels of anticonvulsants in the blood, which could lead to side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and seizures.

Statins⁚ Clarithromycin may increase the levels of statins in the blood, which could lead to side effects such as muscle pain, weakness, and damage.

Other medications that can cause liver damage⁚ Taking clarithromycin with other medications that can damage the liver, such as acetaminophen, isoniazid, or ketoconazole, may increase the risk of liver damage.

Ergot alkaloids⁚ Clarithromycin may increase the levels of ergot alkaloids in the blood, which could lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and headache.

Cisapride⁚ Clarithromycin may increase the levels of cisapride in the blood, which could lead to a rare but serious heart rhythm problem called torsades de pointes.

Pimozide⁚ Clarithromycin may increase the levels of pimozide in the blood, which could lead to a rare but serious heart rhythm problem called torsades de pointes.

Terfenadine⁚ Clarithromycin may increase the levels of terfenadine in the blood, which could lead to a rare but serious heart rhythm problem called torsades de pointes.

Astemizole⁚ Clarithromycin may increase the levels of astemizole in the blood, which could lead to a rare but serious heart rhythm problem called torsades de pointes.

It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting clarithromycin. Your doctor may need to adjust the dosage of your medications or monitor you for side effects.

Drug-food interactions

Clarithromycin may interact with certain foods, including⁚

Grapefruit juice⁚ Grapefruit juice may increase the levels of clarithromycin in the blood, which could lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

It is important to avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking clarithromycin.

Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications and supplements you are taking before starting clarithromycin. Your doctor may need to adjust the dosage of your medications or monitor you for side effects.

Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions⁚

Liver disease

Kidney disease

Heart disease

Myasthenia gravis

These conditions may increase your risk of side effects from clarithromycin.

If you experience any serious side effects while taking clarithromycin, seek medical attention immediately.

Cost of Clarithromycin

The cost of clarithromycin will vary depending on the dosage, form, and brand name. The following table provides the average cost of clarithromycin in the United States⁚

|---|---|---|---|

| 250 mg | Tablet | Biaxin | $10-$20 |

| 500 mg | Tablet | Biaxin XL | $15-$25 |

| 500 mg | Extended-release tablet | Biaxin XR | $20-$30 |

Generic clarithromycin is also available and is typically less expensive than brand-name clarithromycin. The average cost of generic clarithromycin in the United States is⁚

| Dosage | Form | Average Cost |

|---|---|---|

| 250 mg | Tablet | $5-$10 |

| 500 mg | Tablet | $7-$15 |

| 500 mg | Extended-release tablet | $10-$20 |

| 1 gram | Granules for oral suspension | $15-$25 |

| 1 gram | Powder for injection | $30-$50 |

The cost of clarithromycin may also vary depending on your insurance coverage. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to find out what your coverage is for clarithromycin.

How to save money on clarithromycin

There are a few ways to save money on clarithromycin⁚

Ask your doctor if a generic version of clarithromycin is available. Generic medications are typically less expensive than brand-name medications.

Shop around at different pharmacies to find the best price on clarithromycin. You can also use a prescription discount card to save money on your medication.

If you have insurance, be sure to check with your insurance provider to find out what your coverage is for clarithromycin. Your insurance may cover the cost of your medication or may offer a discount.

If you are having trouble affording your clarithromycin medication, talk to your doctor. They may be able to help you find a more affordable option.

Generic Versions of Clarithromycin

Clarithromycin is available as a generic medication. Generic medications are copies of brand-name medications that have the same active ingredients. They are typically much less expensive than brand-name medications.

The following are some of the generic versions of clarithromycin that are available in the United States⁚

Clarithromycin

Clarithromycin ER

Clarithromycin XL

Generic clarithromycin is just as effective as brand-name clarithromycin. It is also safe and well-tolerated.

Benefits of generic clarithromycin

There are many benefits to taking generic clarithromycin, including⁚

Cost⁚ Generic clarithromycin is typically much less expensive than brand-name clarithromycin.

Effectiveness⁚ Generic clarithromycin is just as effective as brand-name clarithromycin.

Safety⁚ Generic clarithromycin is safe and well-tolerated.

Convenience⁚ Generic clarithromycin is available at most pharmacies.

How to get generic clarithromycin

To get generic clarithromycin, simply ask your doctor to prescribe it. You can also ask your pharmacist to dispense generic clarithromycin if it is available.

Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting clarithromycin. Clarithromycin may interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, and statins.

Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions⁚

Liver disease

Kidney disease

Heart disease

Myasthenia gravis

These conditions may increase your risk of side effects from clarithromycin.

If you experience any serious side effects while taking clarithromycin, seek medical attention immediately.

Storage of Clarithromycin

Clarithromycin should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.

Tablets and granules

Store clarithromycin tablets and granules in their original container. Do not remove the tablets or granules from the container until you are ready to take them.

Oral suspension

Store clarithromycin oral suspension in the refrigerator. Do not freeze the oral suspension.

Intravenous (IV) solution

Clarithromycin IV solution should be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Do not freeze the IV solution.

Discarding clarithromycin

Discard any unused clarithromycin after the expiration date. Do not flush clarithromycin down the toilet or pour it down the sink.

Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions⁚

Liver disease

Kidney disease

Heart disease

Myasthenia gravis

These conditions may increase your risk of side effects from clarithromycin.

If you experience any serious side effects while taking clarithromycin, seek medical attention immediately.

Precautions and Warnings

Clarithromycin should be used with caution in patients with the following conditions⁚

Liver disease⁚ Clarithromycin may cause liver damage, especially in people who have liver disease or who are taking other medications that can damage the liver. Symptoms of liver damage include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, light-colored stools, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking clarithromycin and seek medical attention immediately.

Kidney disease⁚ Clarithromycin may cause kidney damage, especially in people who have kidney disease or who are taking other medications that can damage the kidneys. Symptoms of kidney damage include decreased urine output, swelling of the hands, feet, or ankles, fatigue, confusion, and seizures. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking clarithromycin and seek medical attention immediately.

Heart disease⁚ Clarithromycin may cause heart rhythm problems, especially in people who have heart disease or who are taking other medications that can cause heart rhythm problems. Symptoms of heart rhythm problems include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fainting. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking clarithromycin and seek medical attention immediately.

Myasthenia gravis⁚ Clarithromycin may worsen the symptoms of myasthenia gravis, a condition that causes muscle weakness. Symptoms of myasthenia gravis include drooping eyelids, double vision, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty breathing. If you have myasthenia gravis, talk to your doctor before taking clarithromycin.

Clarithromycin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. Clarithromycin may cause birth defects if taken during the first trimester of pregnancy. Clarithromycin passes into breast milk. Therefore, breastfeeding should be avoided while taking clarithromycin.

Clarithromycin is not recommended for use in children under the age of 6 months.

Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions⁚

Liver disease

Kidney disease

Heart disease

Myasthenia gravis

These conditions may increase your risk of side effects from clarithromycin.

If you experience any serious side effects while taking clarithromycin, seek medical attention immediately.

Overdose of Clarithromycin

An overdose of clarithromycin can cause serious side effects, including⁚

Nausea

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Abdominal pain

Headache

Confusion

Seizures

Coma

If you think you have taken an overdose of clarithromycin, seek medical attention immediately.

Treatment of overdose

There is no specific antidote for an overdose of clarithromycin. Treatment will be supportive and may include⁚

Gastric lavage (pumping the stomach)

Activated charcoal

Intravenous fluids

Monitoring of vital signs

Treatment of seizures

Keep clarithromycin out of reach of children. In case of accidental overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions⁚

Liver disease

Kidney disease

Heart disease

Myasthenia gravis

These conditions may increase your risk of side effects from clarithromycin.

If you experience any serious side effects while taking clarithromycin, seek medical attention immediately.

Missed Dose of Clarithromycin

It is important to take clarithromycin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Skipping doses can reduce the effectiveness of the medication and increase the risk of side effects.

If you have any questions about what to do if you miss a dose of clarithromycin, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions⁚

Liver disease

Kidney disease

Heart disease

Myasthenia gravis

These conditions may increase your risk of side effects from clarithromycin.

If you experience any serious side effects while taking clarithromycin, seek medical attention immediately;

Patient Education

How to take clarithromycin

For children, the dosage of clarithromycin is based on body weight. The usual dosage is 7.5-15 mg/kg/day, divided into two doses.

Clarithromycin may also be given intravenously (IV) in a hospital setting. The usual dosage for adults is 500 mg every 12 hours.

Store clarithromycin at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.

Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions⁚

Liver disease

Kidney disease

Heart disease

Myasthenia gravis

These conditions may increase your risk of side effects from clarithromycin.

If you experience any serious side effects while taking clarithromycin, seek medical attention immediately.

Side effects of clarithromycin

Clarithromycin is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects may occur, including⁚

Gastrointestinal side effects⁚ nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, indigestion, heartburn

Headache

Rash

Itching

Hives

These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own. However, if you experience any severe side effects, such as⁚

Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)

Difficulty breathing

Liver damage

Kidney damage

Hearing loss

Vision problems

Seek medical attention immediately.

Professional Advice

Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Clarithromycin is typically well-tolerated, but some side effects may occur, including gastrointestinal side effects, headache, rash, and itching.

Dosage and administration

For children, the dosage of clarithromycin is based on body weight. The usual dosage is 7.5-15 mg/kg/day, divided into two doses.

Clarithromycin may also be given intravenously (IV) in a hospital setting. The usual dosage for adults is 500 mg every 12 hours.

Missed dose

If a dose of clarithromycin is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the next dose should be taken at the regular time.

Storage

Clarithromycin should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.

Important safety information

Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions⁚

Liver disease

Kidney disease

Heart disease

Myasthenia gravis

These conditions may increase your risk of side effects from clarithromycin.

If you experience any serious side effects while taking clarithromycin, seek medical attention immediately.

Contraindications

Clarithromycin is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to it or to any of its ingredients. It is also contraindicated in patients who are taking cisapride, pimozide, or terfenadine.

Warnings and precautions

Clarithromycin should be used with caution in patients with liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, or myasthenia gravis.

Clarithromycin may cause liver damage, especially in people who have liver disease or who are taking other medications that can damage the liver. Symptoms of liver damage include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, light-colored stools, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking clarithromycin and seek medical attention immediately.

Clarithromycin may cause kidney damage, especially in people who have kidney disease or who are taking other medications that can damage the kidneys. Symptoms of kidney damage include decreased urine output, swelling of the hands, feet, or ankles, fatigue, confusion, and seizures. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking clarithromycin and seek medical attention immediately.

Clarithromycin may cause heart rhythm problems, especially in people who have heart disease or who are taking other medications that can cause heart rhythm problems. Symptoms of heart rhythm problems include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fainting. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking clarithromycin and seek medical attention immediately.

Clarithromycin may worsen the symptoms of myasthenia gravis, a condition that causes muscle weakness. Symptoms of myasthenia gravis include drooping eyelids, double vision, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty breathing. If you have myasthenia gravis, talk to your doctor before taking clarithromycin.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Children

Clarithromycin is not recommended for use in children under the age of 6 months.