Clarithromycin: how to take it safely
Klacid
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats chest, throat and skin infections, and is used to clear stomach ulcer bacteria.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
- Finish the full course, even if you feel better.
When to take it
Take it twice a day, about 12 hours apart.
Take it with
With or without food.
What to avoid
- Stopping the course early.
- Sharing or saving leftover antibiotics.
- Grapefruit juice.
- Tell your doctor if you have heart rhythm problems or liver disease.
- Tell your pharmacist about all medicines you take, including statins.
Possible side effects
Taste changes, nausea, diarrhoea, stomach pain.
Get help if
Rash, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, or trouble breathing: get urgent help. Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, or no improvement after 2 to 3 days: see a doctor. Palpitations or fainting: get help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.