Clarithro 500 XL Syrup

Basic Information

• Brand Name: Clarithro 500 XL Syrup

• Type: Antibiotic (Macrolide, Extended Release)

• Form: Oral Suspension (Extended Release / XL formulation)

• Pack Size: Bottle of 60 ml / 70 ml with measuring cup/spoon (commonly available)

• Manufacturer / Marketer: Abbott India Ltd.

Composition (per 5 ml of reconstituted suspension)

• Clarithromycin – 125 mg / 250 mg (XL formulation)
  (After reconstitution, the total content is equivalent to 500 mg Clarithromycin per prescribed dose)

Uses / Indications

Clarithro 500 XL Syrup is prescribed for:

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

• Skin & soft tissue infections – cellulitis, abscess, wound infections

• Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) infections – otitis media, sinusitis

• Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy (in combination with PPI & Amoxicillin/Metronidazole)

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

Mechanism of Action

• Clarithromycin (Macrolide antibiotic):

  • Binds to 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria

  • Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis → halts growth (bacteriostatic)

  • Effective against Gram-positive, Gram-negative & atypical pathogens

• XL Formulation (Extended Release): Maintains steady drug levels in the body → allows once-daily dosing

Dosage & Administration

• Adults & Children (≥12 years): Typically 500 mg once daily, or as prescribed by doctor

• Reconstitution: Add boiled & cooled water up to the marked line → shake well until uniform suspension forms

• Shake well before each dose

• Take after meals to reduce stomach upset

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

Side Effects

• Common: nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache, metallic/bitter taste

• Rare: liver enzyme changes, rash, dizziness, irregular heartbeat (QT prolongation)

• Severe (rare): antibiotic-associated diarrhea (C. difficile infection)

Precautions & Warnings

• Use strictly under doctor’s prescription

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

• Drug interactions: interacts with statins, anticoagulants, antifungals, antiarrhythmics → inform doctor about all medicines

• Avoid alcohol (increases liver strain)

• Pregnant & breastfeeding women: use only if clearly prescribed