Often used for:
Preventing or treating infections
What is clarithromycin?
Clarithromycin is used to prevent or treat infections. It is available as 250 mg tablets, 500 mg tablets, 500 mg extended-release (XL) tablets, and a 25 mg/mL liquid suspension, all taken by mouth.
Clarithromycin at home
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed.
- Follow the food instructions for each form to reduce stomach upset.
- Store all forms properly as directed.
- Use the measuring device provided for liquid doses.
- Dispose of any remaining liquid after 14 days or when it expires.
Possible side effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Changed taste
- Headache
- Stomach pain
- Indigestion
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck
- Not all patients who take clarithromycin will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.
Tips for patients and families
- Discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist.
- All forms except the extended-release tablets can be taken with or without food; take with food if stomach pain occurs.
- Extended-release (XL) tablets should be taken one time a day with food.
- Store tablets at room temperature in a dry place.
- Shake the liquid well before each dose and measure with an oral syringe or medicine cup.
- Store the liquid suspension at room temperature; do not refrigerate.
- Discard the liquid medicine after 14 days or the expiration date on the label.
