What it is used for
- Chest and respiratory infections such as some pneumonia and bronchitis
- Ear, throat and sinus infections
- Some skin infections
- Part of combination treatment for stomach ulcers linked to H. pylori
How it works
Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic. It stops bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow and multiply, helping the body clear the infection. It is often chosen for people who cannot take penicillins.
How it is taken
Comes as tablets (including slow-release tablets), a liquid (oral suspension), and an injection in hospital. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label. Swallow slow-release tablets whole. Complete the full course as advised.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach upset
- Changes in taste (often a bitter or metallic taste)
- Headache
- Vomiting
Serious effects — get help
- Severe allergic reaction with swelling or breathing difficulty
- An irregular or fast heartbeat or fainting
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Severe, persistent or bloody diarrhoea
- Confusion, hallucinations or mood changes
- Severe blistering skin reactions
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Some statins (cholesterol medicines)
- Blood thinners such as warfarin
- Certain heart-rhythm medicines
- Some medicines for migraine (ergot type)
- Certain sedatives
- Colchicine
- Many other medicines processed by the liver
Who should take care
- Tell your clinician about any macrolide allergy
- Tell your clinician if you have heart rhythm problems
- Tell your clinician if you have liver or kidney problems
- It interacts with many medicines, so share a full list with your clinician and pharmacist
- Discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with your doctor or pharmacist