Clarithro 500 Tablet

Basic Information

• Brand Name: Clarithro 500 Tablet

• Type: Antibiotic (Macrolide)

• Form: Tablet

• Pack Size: Strip of 4 / 6 / 10 tablets (commonly available)

• Manufacturer / Marketer: Abbott India Ltd. (popular brand; also available from other companies)

Composition (per tablet)

• Clarithromycin – 500 mg

Uses / Indications

Clarithro 500 Tablet is prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections, such as:

• Respiratory tract infections: pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis

• Skin & soft tissue infections: cellulitis, abscesses, wound infections

• Helicobacter pylori infection (as part of combination therapy for peptic ulcers)

• Ear, nose & throat (ENT) infections

• Mycobacterial infections (including MAC – Mycobacterium avium complex in HIV patients)

Mechanism of Action

• Clarithromycin (Macrolide antibiotic):

  • Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit

  • Stops bacterial growth (bacteriostatic) and at higher doses may be bactericidal

• Effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and atypical pathogens

Dosage & Administration

• Adults: Usually 250–500 mg twice daily (every 12 hours), as prescribed

• Duration: 7–14 days, depending on infection type

• In H. pylori treatment: given in combination with PPI (Rabeprazole/Omeprazole) + Amoxicillin/Metronidazole for 10–14 days

• Take with or without food, but preferably after meals to reduce stomach upset

• Swallow whole with water

Side Effects

• Common: nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, altered taste (metallic/bitter)

• Rare: liver enzyme changes, jaundice, abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation), allergic skin reactions

• Severe (rare): Clostridium difficile–associated diarrhea

Precautions & Warnings

• Use only under doctor’s prescription

• Avoid in patients with liver disease, heart rhythm disorders, or kidney impairment

• Interacts with many medicines (statins, anticoagulants, antiarrhythmics, etc.) → inform doctor of all ongoing meds

• Avoid alcohol (increases liver strain & side effects)

• Pregnant & breastfeeding women: use only if prescribed