Biaxin is also prescribed to treat infections of the skin. Combined with other medications, it is used to treat ulcers near the exit from the stomach (duodenal ulcers) caused by H. pylori bacteria. It can also be prescribed to combat Mycobacterium avium infections in people with AIDS.

Biaxin is available in tablet and suspension form, and in extended-release tablets (Biaxin XL). The extended-release form is used only for sinus inflammation and flare-ups of bronchitis.

How should this medicine be used?

Clarithromycin comes as a tablet, an extended-release (long-acting) tablet, and a suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. The regular tablet and liquid are usually taken with or without food every 12 hours (twice a day) for 7-14 days. The long-acting tablet is usually taken with food every 24 hours (once a day) for 7-14 days. Take clarithromycin at around the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take clarithromycin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly.

The tablets should be taken with a full glass of water. Swallow the long-acting tablets whole; do not split, chew, or crush them.

Take clarithromycin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. If you stop taking clarithromycin too soon, your infection may not be completely treated and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.

How should you take this medication?

You may take Biaxin suspension or tablets with or without food. Biaxin XL, however, should always be taken with food. Do not chew or crush Biaxin XL tablets. Shake Biaxin suspension before each dose and use it within 14 days.

Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and be sure to continue taking it for the full course of treatment.

• If you miss a dose...
  Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take the one you missed and take the next one 5 to 6 hours later. Then go back to your regular schedule.

• Storage instructions...
  Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from light. Do not refrigerate the suspension.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Clarithromycin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• diarrhea
• nausea
• heartburn
• abnormal taste
• stomach pain
• headache

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• rash
• hives
• itching
• swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• hoarseness
• blisters or red splotches on skin
• fever
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• unusual bruising or bleeding
• pain in the upper right part of the stomach
• lack of energy
• flu-like symptoms
• fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat

Clarithromycin may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/index.html] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

• stomach pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea