The prescription oral antibiotics Claritek 500mg include Clarithromycin 500mg, a potent macrolide antibiotic used in the treatment of many kinds of bacterial infections. Claritek, a broad-spectrum, bacteriostatic antibiotic, acts by irreversibly attaching to the 50S ribosomal subunit, therefore preventing bacterial protein synthesis and reducing the proliferation of infection-causing germs.

Clarithromycin Uses and Indications

Claritek is usually recommended for:

• Infections of the respiratory system including sinusitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia
• In soft tissues and skin, infections
• Diseases of the upper and lower respiratory tracts
• Helicobacter pylori treatment for peptic ulcer disease in combination therapy
• Typical mycobacterial diseases; Legionella pneumonia; and pertussis
• Uses off-label include infections in immunocompromised people and Lyme disease.

Dosage & Administration

Usually, adults take 500 mg every 12 hours—twice a day. Though taken either with or without food, it should be taken consistently.

Unless practically time for the next dose is approaching, a missing dose should be taken as soon as remembered. Never double to compensate for a missed dosage.

Side Effects & Safety Information

Typical Clarithromycin side effects include:

• Taste problems, nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, and diarrhea
• Rare but severe consequences include QT prolongation, hearing loss, hepatic malfunction, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and allergy.

Especially in long-term use, track kidney and liver performance. Steer clear of use in patients with a history of macrolide allergies; use carefully in patients with renal insufficiency, hepatic dysfunction, or cardiac diseases.

Drug Interactions & Contraindications

Not apply with:

• Due to major cardiac risks, cisapride, pimozide, terfenadine, or astemizole
• Unless closely under medical control, ergot alkaloids, statins, or midazolam
• Not advised during pregnancy except absolutely required (FDA Pregnancy Category C)

Storage & Handling

Store room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of youngsters’s reach.