| name | Clarithromycin |
| classification | Macrolide antibiotic |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Well absorbed orally, bioavailability is approximately 50%. | | distribution | Distributed throughout tissues, including lungs, and the GI tract. Concentrations in the lungs are higher than in serum. | | metabolism | Metabolized primarily in the liver, primarily via the cytochrome P450 system (CYP3A4). | | excretion | Excreted primarily in the bile as metabolites, with a small amount excreted in the urine. |
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| suggested dosage | | typical adult dose | 250 mg to 500 mg twice daily, depending on indication. | | special considerations for 25 year old 70kg male | Typical adult dosages can be applied, but always consult a physician for specific patient needs and tailored dosing. Renal or hepatic impairment may necessitate dose adjustments. | | notes | Dosage adjustments based on renal or hepatic function may be required. Patients with these conditions should be monitored closely. Follow physician's instructions exactly. |
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| indications | | 1 | Treatment of bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis), gastrointestinal infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections. | | 2 | Treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection (in combination with other medications). |
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| safety in pregnancy | | category | Category B. Limited human data; possible adverse effects to fetus; consider the risks and benefits with the physician | | notes | Potential risks to the fetus require careful consideration of risks and benefits with the prescribing physician. |
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| safety in breastfeeding | | category | Limited data; possible excretion into breast milk. Monitor for adverse effects on the infant. Consider the benefits to the mother with the physician. | | notes | Potential excretion into breast milk; possible adverse effects on the infant require careful monitoring. Consult a physician before use. |
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| side effects | | 1 | Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) | | 2 | Headache | | 3 | Abdominal pain | | 4 | Elevated liver enzymes (rare) | | 5 | Skin rash | | 6 | Pruritus | | 7 | Eosinophilia (rare) | | 8 | Increased risk of Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea | | 9 | Rare but serious: jaundice, severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis. | | 10 | ECG changes including prolongation of the QT interval (rare) |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | History of severe allergic reactions to macrolides | | 2 | Known hypersensitivity or intolerance to clarithromycin | | 3 | Severe hepatic impairment |
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| interactions | | 1 | CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, HIV protease inhibitors, azole antifungals): Increased risk of adverse effects, dose adjustments may be needed. | | 2 | CYP3A4 substrates (e.g., warfarin, digoxin): potential interactions; monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary. | | 3 | Drugs that can cause prolongation of QT interval (such as some antiarrhythmics): Increased risk of cardiac events. | | 4 | Other antibiotics and medications: Clarithromycin can have interactions with other drugs; detailed discussion with the physician is essential. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Caution in patients with liver or kidney disease. | | 2 | Caution in patients with a history of QT prolongation or cardiac abnormalities. | | 3 | Monitor for signs of allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, difficulty breathing). | | 4 | Patients should be cautioned to avoid operating machinery or driving if experiencing dizziness or other side effects. | | 5 | Long-term use and/or high doses should be undertaken with medical supervision, since side effects may become more pronounced. |
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| additional informations | | important notes | This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, or any health concerns. |
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