Clarithrime (Clarithromycin) 500 mg Tablets

What it is

Clarithrime is a brand of clarithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of certain bacteria. It is available as 500 mg tablets and is registered with NAFDAC under number B4-6733.

What it's used for

Clarithrime is used for mild to moderate bacterial infections in adults and children. These include acute flare-ups of chronic bronchitis, acute sinusitis, community-acquired pneumonia, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, uncomplicated skin infections, and acute ear infections in children. It is also used to treat and prevent disseminated mycobacterial infections and to treat H. pylori infection with duodenal ulcer disease in adults.

How it's taken

Dosage depends on the infection. Typically, for most adult infections, the prescribed dose is 250 mg or 500 mg taken every 12 hours for 7 to 14 days. For H. pylori eradication, it is taken every 8 or 12 hours for 10 to 14 days along with other medicines. For children, the dose is calculated by weight and given every 12 hours. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

Common side effects

The available product information does not list specific common side effects but warns about serious adverse reactions. These include severe allergic reactions, abnormal heart rhythms (QT prolongation), liver damage, and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea. If you experience any side effects, report them to your healthcare provider.

Important cautions

Do not use Clarithrime if you are allergic to clarithromycin or any macrolide drug, or if you have had liver problems from taking clarithromycin before. It should not be taken with certain medicines such as cisapride, pimozide, colchicine (if you have kidney or liver problems), lomitapide, lovastatin, simvastatin, ergot alkaloids, or lurasidone. Avoid Clarithrime if you have a known QT prolongation or are taking medicines that prolong the QT interval. Always inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking.

Frequently asked questions