Biaxin (Clarithromycin)

Do's

• Take Biaxin tablet by mouth with or without food every 12 hours. If stomach upset occurs, you may take it with food or milk. 
• Swallow the Biaxin XL tablet whole, usually once daily. 
• Take the antibiotic at evenly spaced times for the best effect. 
• Take Biaxin at the same time(s) every day to help you remember. 
• Continue taking the medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear if you are using this medication to treat an infection. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection 
• Take Biaxin exactly as directed by your healthcare provider if using it to prevent certain bacterial infections. 
• Adhere to the prescribed dosage and administration instructions to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and minimize the risk of side effects 
• Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance if you have specific questions about the dosage and administration of Biaxin. 

Don’ts 

• Don't crush or chew the XL tablets, as doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. 
• Don't stop taking the medication without your healthcare provider's approval. 

The dosage and length of treatment of Biaxin are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dosage may also be based on weight.

Common Side Effects:

• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• An unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth
• Additionally, headaches have been reported in about 1% to 10% of patients

Serious Side Effects: 

• Severe stomach pain
• Watery or bloody diarrhea
• Fast or pounding heartbeats
• Fluttering in your chest
• Shortness of breath
• Confusion
• Spinning sensation
• Liver problems
• Kidney problems

Seek medical attention if any of these symptoms occur.

Hepatic dysfunction, including increased liver enzymes, and hepatocellular and/or cholestatic hepatitis, with or without jaundice, have been reported. In some instances, hepatic failure with fatal outcomes has been associated with serious underlying diseases and/or concomitant medications.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Biaxin, seek medical advice promptly.

Before taking Biaxin or making any changes to your medication regimen, consult a healthcare provider. This includes seeking advice before commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment, as well as before making any changes to your diet.

Patients should be counseled regarding the potential for dizziness, vertigo, confusion, and disorientation, which may occur with the medication. Take these potential adverse reactions into account before driving or using machines.

If pregnancy occurs while taking Biaxin, there is a potential hazard to the fetus. Be aware of this risk and seek medical advice if there are any concerns related to pregnancy while taking this medication.

Patients who have coronary artery disease should continue medications and lifestyle modifications for their condition, as Biaxin may be associated with an increased risk for mortality years after the end of treatment.

Biaxin should not be used by individuals who are allergic to clarithromycin or similar antibiotics, those who have a history of jaundice or liver problems caused by taking Biaxin, or those with liver or kidney disease who are also taking colchicine.

Take Biaxin for the full prescribed length of time, even if symptoms improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may increase the risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics.

Patients should always inform their healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements they are currently taking, including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements.

This is not an exhaustive list of warnings and precautions associated with Biaxin. If you have any concerns or specific questions about the use of Biaxin, discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and advice.