Clarithromycin (Clarithromycin)
Overview of Clarithromycin
Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic. Macrolides are compounds characterized by a macrocyclic lactone ring to which deoxy sugars are attached. Clarithromycin is a semisynthetic derivative of Erythromycin obtained by the addition of methyl group to hydroxyl group at carbon 6. Clarithromycin is effective against gram positive bacteria. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect. This is achieved by taking the medication at regular interval of time throughout the day and night as prescribed. Clarithromycin is important to take the drug for the full time period as prescribed. If you discontinue the therapy, it may result in ineffective treatment.
Indication of Clarithromycin
Clarithromycin is primarily indicated in conditions like Chronic bronchitis, Metastatic germ cell cancer, Mycobacterial infection, Otitis media, Pharyngitis, Pneumonia, Respiratory tract infections, Rtis; otitis media, Sinusitis, Skin infections, Soft tissue infections, To counteract the folate-antagonist action of methotrexate, Tonsillitis, and can also be given in adjunctive therapy as an alternative drug of choice in Duodenal ulcer, Endocarditis.
Contraindication of Clarithromycin
Clarithromycin is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.
Side Effects of Clarithromycin
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Clarithromycin, which give rise to further complications include Pseudomembranous colitis, Renal failure, Interstitial nephritis.,Clarithromycin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include cerebial hemorrhage. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Clarithromycin therapy.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Clarithromycin include Hypokalemia, Hypoxia.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Clarithromycin are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Headache, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Phlebitis, Glossitis, StomatitisX, Elevation of liver enzymes, Taste perversion, Increased intracranial pressure, Hypoglycemia.
Precautions of Clarithromycin
Clarithromycin should be used with caution in patients with other illnesses or any allergy, especially allergies to drugs, arrythmias ,liver disease, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), kidney disease , or a history of colitis or stomach problems. This drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or lactation.