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.
Primary Characteristics
Clarithromycin is also known as clarithromycine.
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Hexopyranosyl.
It belongs to Antibacterial (Proetin synthesis inhibitor) pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antibiotics pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 748 · pKa: 8.3 · Solubility in Water: < 1 in 10000 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 200 · Non-proprietary name: Clarithromycin.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Clarithromycin has an oral bioavailability is 50% (±50%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 20% (±20%).
Distribution: Clarithromycin has a volume of distribution is 250 litre. plasma protein binding is 80%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via via liver, plasma half-life is 2.9-9.2 hr, renal excretion is 20-30%(unchanged) 10-15%(metabolite).
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Indications
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.
Clarithromycin is also indicated for secondary conditions like Duodenal ulcer, Endocarditis.
Contraindications
Clarithromycin is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Clarithromycin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 500 – 0 mg | — | Every 12h | IV | IV inj should be administer over 60 minutes for 2-5days |
| 375 mg | 375 mg | Every 12h | PO | For 7-14 days. clarithromycin should be taken without food |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 7.5 mg/kg | 7.5 mg/kg | Every 12h | Oral | - |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 7.5 mg/kg | 7.5 mg/kg | Every 12h | Oral | - |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Clarithromycin in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Renal failure , Interstitial nephritis , Pseudomembranous colitis .
Clarithromycin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include cerebial hemorrhage. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Clarithromycin are Hypoxia, Hypokalemia .
Clarithromycin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, Elevation of liver enzymes, Glossitis, Headache, Hypoglycemia, Increased intracranial pressure, Nausea, Phlebitis , StomatitisX, Taste perversion, Vomiting .
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Clarithromycin may interfere in the diagnosis of Elevations of SGPT and SGOT , Alkaline phosphatase levels are elevated., Serum creatinin raised, serum aspartate amino transferase, urinary catecholamine and 17- hydroxy corticosteroids.
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Multi-Ingredient Combinations
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.2.2.4 — Macrolides
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Clarithromycin in Pakistan: