Clarimac Tablet: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Clarimac Tablet contains clarithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections and skin infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria so the body's immune system can clear the infection. It is also used as part of combination therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection and duodenal ulcer. Clarimac is available in tablet, capsule, syrup, and injection forms.

What is Clarimac Tablet

Clarimac is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract infections and skin infections. It belongs to the macrolide class of antibiotics, which work by stopping the growth of bacteria. It contains clarithromycin, which fights bacteria by stopping their growth so your body's immune system can clear the infection.

Clarimac Tablet uses

• Respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia
• Sinus infections (sinusitis)
• Throat infections, including tonsillitis and pharyngitis
• Ear infections like otitis media (middle ear infections)
• Skin and soft tissue infections such as impetigo, erysipelas, folliculitis and furunculosis
• Part of combination therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection and duodenal ulcer, along with amoxicillin and omeprazole

Benefits of Clarimac Tablet

• Bacterial Infection Treatment: Helps treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
• Respiratory Infection Support: Used for certain bacterial infections of the throat, sinuses, and respiratory tract.
• Skin Infection Treatment: May be prescribed for certain susceptible bacterial skin infections.
• Ear Infection Support: Can be used for selected bacterial ear infections.
• H. pylori Treatment: Used in combination with other medicines as part of some H. pylori eradication regimens.

How Clarimac Tablet works

Clarimac works by attaching to a part of the bacteria called the ribosome, which the bacteria use to make proteins. By blocking this process, it stops bacteria from growing and multiplying, allowing your body's immune system to fight off the infection.

Clarimac Tablet dosage

Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not break, chew, or crush it. It can be taken with or without food. If your stomach gets upset, take it with food. Take doses spaced evenly, usually twice a day, as directed by your doctor. Continue taking the full course even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to stop, since stopping early may let the infection come back. 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 and continue your normal schedule; do not take two doses at once. A course of treatment usually lasts about 1 to 2 weeks.

Available forms and strengths

• Tablet
• Capsule
• Syrup
• Injection

Side effects of Clarimac Tablet

Common

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea (loose motions)
• Abdominal pain and discomfort
• Indigestion or bloating (dyspepsia)
• Changes in taste
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Rash or itching
• Joint pain (arthralgia) and muscle pain (myalgia)

Serious

• Severe allergic reactions
• Heart rhythm problems
• Liver damage or abnormal liver function, including hepatitis and cholestasis with or without jaundice
• Worsening of myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakness disorder)
• Pseudomembranous colitis (severe diarrhea) following antibiotic use
• Hearing loss with or without ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or vertigo, in cases of overdose

Warnings and precautions

• Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to it, to clarithromycin, or to other macrolide antibiotics, or if you have a history of liver problems related to its use.
• This medicine should not be taken together with ergot-based medicines, or with cisapride, pimozide, and terfenadine, due to serious interaction risks.
• Use with caution if you have a heart rhythm disorder, as this medicine may increase the risk of dangerous heart rhythm problems.
• Use with caution if you have low potassium or magnesium levels in your blood, as this can add to heart rhythm risks.
• Diarrhea that develops during or after taking this antibiotic could be a sign of a serious bowel condition and should be checked by a doctor.
• This medicine can interact with several other drugs, including blood thinners like warfarin and certain cholesterol-lowering statins, raising the risk of bleeding or muscle problems.
• Older adults may be more prone to side effects such as liver problems or heart rhythm changes and should be closely monitored, especially those above 70.
• The safety of Clarimac during pregnancy is not well-established. It should only be used if the benefits outweigh the risks, under medical supervision.
• Clarimac passes into breast milk and its effects on a breastfed infant are not well known. It may cause side effects like diarrhea or rash in the infant, so caution and a doctor's advice are needed.
• People with kidney problems should use this medicine with caution, and the dose may need to be reduced.
• People with liver problems should use this medicine with caution, as it can affect liver function.
• It is advised to be careful when drinking alcohol while taking this medicine, as it may increase side effects. Always consult your doctor for specific guidance.
• This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If this happens, avoid driving or operating machinery until you feel normal again.

Storage

• Store at room temperature, ideally between 15°C to 30°C
• Avoid exposing the medicine to moisture and light
• Do not refrigerate or freeze the tablets
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the package
• Check the expiration date regularly and dispose of any unused or expired medication properly

When to see a doctor

• Get medical help right away if you notice signs of a severe allergic reaction.
• Contact your doctor if you have severe stomach pain, persistent loose motions, or signs of an allergic reaction.
• If you accidentally take more than the prescribed dose and have symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort, tell your doctor right away.
• If your symptoms do not improve or get worse while taking this medicine, contact your doctor so your treatment can be adjusted.
• If side effects do not improve or become serious, speak to your doctor right away.

Alternatives

• Azithromycin
• Erythromycin
• Amoxicillin