CRIXAN GEL

Uses and Benefits of CRIXAN GEL (CLARITHROMYCIN)

Clarithromycin is used to treat a range of bacterial infections in different parts of the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Chest infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia
• Throat and sinus infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Helicobacter pylori infection linked to stomach ulcers (used with other medicines)
• Certain infections in people with weakened immunity, as advised by the doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Clarithromycin blocks the ability of bacteria to make proteins they need to grow
• This stops the bacteria from multiplying and allows the body's immune system to clear the infection

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Viral infections such as common cold, flu, or most sore throats
• Fungal infections
• As a general painkiller or fever medicine
• Preventing infections that are not caused by susceptible bacteria

This medicine should only be used for the specific infection your doctor has diagnosed, since using antibiotics unnecessarily can lead to antibiotic resistance.

Side Effects of CRIXAN GEL (CLARITHROMYCIN)

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Abnormal or bitter taste in mouth
• Stomach upset or pain
• Headache

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Vomiting
• Indigestion
• Skin rash
• Dizziness
• Sleep disturbance

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
• Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling skin
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing (allergic reaction)
• Severe muscle weakness or unusual tiredness

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

How to Use CRIXAN GEL (CLARITHROMYCIN)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually twice a day
• Can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset
• Swallow tablets whole with water; do not crush or chew extended-release tablets
• Shake the liquid suspension well before use and measure with the given measuring cup or spoon
• Complete the full course even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to stop
• Try to take doses at the same times each day to maintain steady levels in the body

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light, and moisture
• Keep the liquid suspension in the refrigerator only if the label instructs so
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Discard any unused liquid suspension after the period mentioned on the label

Safety Information and Precautions for CRIXAN GEL (CLARITHROMYCIN)

Clarithromycin is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only as directed by a registered doctor.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to clarithromycin, erythromycin, or other macrolide antibiotics
• Have a history of irregular heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
• Are taking certain medicines like colchicine, ergotamine, or some cholesterol-lowering statins, without doctor's approval

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a heart condition or family history of irregular heartbeat
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are taking blood thinners, seizure medicines, or other antibiotics

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Statins (risk of muscle damage)
• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Certain heart rhythm medicines
• Theophylline and some seizure medicines
• Ergot-containing medicines

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it may worsen stomach side effects and reduce your recovery.

Will this medicine work for a viral cold or flu?

No, it only works against bacterial infections and will not help with viral illnesses.

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

• No, complete the full course as prescribed, as stopping early can lead to the infection returning or antibiotic resistance.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.