Biaxin

Common Name: clarithromycin

How does Biaxin work?

Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat infections caused by certain bacteria. It works by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria that may cause certain throat infections such as tonsillitis, sinus infections, lung infections such as pneumonia, and skin infections such as impetigo and cellulitis. It is also used in combination with other medications to kill H. Pylori, a bacteria known to cause ulcers in the digestive tract. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Biaxin?

Adults: The recommended adult dose of clarithromycin is 250 mg to 500 mg twice daily, taken with or without meals. The usual duration of treatment for most conditions is 7 to 14 days. Children: The recommended daily dose for children is 15 mg per each kilogram of weight (to a maximum of 1,000 mg per day). This dose should be divided in two and the two half-doses should be taken 12 hours apart, with or without meals. The usual duration of treatment for most conditions is 5 to 10 days. This medication may cause less stomach upset if taken with food. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Finish all of this medication, even if you start to feel better. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

What form(s) does Biaxin come in?

Biaxin® is available in pediatric granules for suspension and tablet form. Pediatric Granules for Suspension: Each bottle consists of a granulation of clarithromycin and carbopol which is coated with HP-55 polymer (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate). Nonmedicinal ingredients: castor oil, citric acid, flavour (artificial and natural fruit), potassium sorbate, povidone (K90), saccharin, silicon dioxide, sodium chloride, sucrose, and xanthan gum. Tablets: 250 mg: Each oval, engraved, yellow, film-coated tablet contains clarithromycin 250 mg. 500 mg: Each oval, engraved, pale yellow, film-coated tablet contains clarithromycin 500 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cellulosic polymers, croscarmellose sodium, D&C Yellow No. 10, magnesium stearate, povidone, propylene glycol, silicon dioxide, sorbic acid, sorbitan monooleate, stearic acid, talc, titanium dioxide, and vanillin. The tablets are tartrazine-free.

What should I NOT take with Biaxin?

Clarithromycin should not be taken by: people with a known allergy to any of the ingredients of the medication people with a known allergy to clarithromycin, erythromycin, or other macrolide antibiotics anyone taking astemizole, terfenadine, cisapride, or pimozide

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Biaxin?

Allergy: Clarithromycin should be taken with caution by anyone who has had some form of drug allergy. It should not be taken by anyone who is allergic to similar drugs (e.g., azithromycin, erythromycin). If an allergic reaction to clarithromycin occurs, stop taking the drug and contact a doctor. Kidney disease: People with kidney disease should be cautious while taking clarithromycin as they may experience increased side effects. Liver disease: People with liver disease should be cautious while taking clarithromycin as they may experience increased side effects. Pregnancy: Clarithromycin should not be used during pregnancy except where no alternative therapy is appropriate. This applies particularly to the first three months of pregnancy. Breast-feeding: Clarithromycin passes into breast milk. The safety of this medication for use while nursing has not been established. Children: There have been no adequate studies on clarithromycin granules mixed with liquid for use by children younger than six months. In cases of pneumonia, the use of clarithromycin granules has not been studied for children younger than three years of age.