Clarithromycin 250mg

Clarithromycin 250mg — Uses and Benefits

Clarithromycin 250mg is prescribed to treat various bacterial infections in adults and children.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Respiratory tract infections like bronchitis, sinusitis and pneumonia
• Throat and tonsil infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Certain stomach infections caused by H. pylori (used along with other medicines)
• Some dental and mouth infections as advised by the doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Clarithromycin belongs to a group of antibiotics called macrolides
• It stops bacteria from making proteins they need to grow and multiply
• This helps the body's immune system clear the infection

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not work against viral infections like common cold or flu
• It is not effective for infections not caused by bacteria
• It should not be used to self-treat fever without a doctor's advice
• It is not a painkiller and does not treat pain directly

How to Use Clarithromycin 250mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually twice a day
• Can be taken with or without food, unless your doctor tells you otherwise
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Complete the full course of treatment even if you feel better
• Try to take doses at the same time each day for best effect

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses frequently, inform your doctor

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture
• Keep the medicine in its original packaging
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Clarithromycin 250mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Altered or bitter taste in mouth

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Vomiting
• Indigestion
• Skin rash
• Dizziness
• Sleep disturbances

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe or watery diarrhoea, especially with blood
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
• Severe skin reactions like blistering, peeling or rash with fever
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat or difficulty breathing
• Severe muscle weakness or hearing changes

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

Clarithromycin 250mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should not be taken without a doctor's prescription.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to clarithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics
• Are taking certain medicines like colchicine along with kidney or liver problems
• Have a history of irregular heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
• Are taking certain cholesterol-lowering statins as advised against by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have heart problems or a family history of irregular heartbeat
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have myasthenia gravis or other muscle disorders
• Are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Certain statins used for cholesterol
• Medicines for heart rhythm problems
• Certain migraine medicines (ergot derivatives)
• Medicines that affect liver enzymes, including some antifungals and HIV medicines

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid or limit alcohol as it may worsen stomach side effects.

Can I take this medicine during pregnancy?

Only if your doctor feels it is necessary, as safety in pregnancy should be assessed individually.

Will this medicine make me feel drowsy?

• It is not typically sedating, but if you feel dizzy, avoid driving or operating machinery.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.