Clarithromycin 500 mg Tablet, Film Coated
🆔 Identity & classification
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🏷️ RxNorm drug class
This medicine belongs to the Macrolide Antimicrobial class.
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🏭 Manufacturer & labeler
Where does this data come from?
🩺 Clinical
Clarithromycin is used to treat certain bacterial infections. treat and prevent disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection [a type of lung infection that affects people with a weakened immune system. eliminate H. pylori, a bacterium that causes ulcers. Clarithromycin is in a class of medications called macrolide antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics such as clarithromycin will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibioti...
Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗- Clarithromycin is used for a range of bacterial infections — things like community-acquired pneumonia, sinus infections, flare-ups of chronic bronchitis, strep throat, skin infecti...
- What kind of infections does clarithromycin treat?
- It depends on which form you have. Regular clarithromycin tablets can be taken with or without food — your stomach contents don't affect how much of the drug gets absorbed. However...
- Do I need to take clarithromycin with food?
Patient education
Supplement & herbal interactions
Some supplements/herbs that may interact with Clarithromycin — tap one for details:
Clarithromycin may be associated with lower levels of 7 nutrients — worth a chat with your pharmacist, not a cause for alarm.
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Ask a licensed pharmacist directly — free, answered by our team.
💊 What it looks like
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🧪 Inactive Ingredients / Excipients
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.
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UNII OP1R32D61U
Microcrystalline cellulose is a purified form of cellulose, a natural fiber from plant sources. It acts as a binder and filler in tablets and capsules, helping hold ingredients together and give the medicine its shape and size.
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Croscarmellose sodium is a plant-based substance derived from cellulose. It acts as a disintegrant, helping tablets and capsules break down quickly in the digestive system so the medicine can be absorbed.
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Ferric oxide yellow is a naturally occurring iron compound used as a colorant in medications. It gives tablets, capsules, and other forms a yellow or golden hue for identification and appearance.
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Hydroxypropyl cellulose is a plant-derived thickening agent made from cellulose. It acts as a binder to hold tablet ingredients together and as a film-former to coat tablets or control how fast the medicine releases.
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Hypromellose 2910 is a plant-based thickening agent derived from cellulose. In medicines, it forms a protective coating on tablets or capsules and controls how quickly the drug dissolves and releases into your body.
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Magnesium stearate is a salt made from magnesium and stearic acid, a fatty substance. It's used in tablets and capsules as a lubricant and glidant to help ingredients flow smoothly during manufacturing and prevent sticking.
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Povidone K30 is a synthetic polymer made from petroleum. It acts as a binder to hold tablet ingredients together and as a disintegrant to help the tablet break apart in the stomach so the medicine can be absorbed.
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Propylene glycol is a clear liquid derived from petroleum or vegetable sources. It acts as a solvent, humectant, and preservative in medicines, helping dissolve active ingredients and maintain product stability.
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Silicon dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral used as a glidant and anti-caking agent. It helps powder ingredients flow smoothly and prevents clumping during manufacturing and storage.
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Sorbic acid is a preservative derived from berries that prevents mold, yeast, and bacterial growth in medicines. It keeps the product stable and safe during storage.
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Titanium dioxide is a bright white mineral powder commonly used as a colorant and opacifying agent. It makes pills and tablets white or lighter in color and helps make coatings non-transparent.
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UNII CHI530446X
Vanillin is a natural or synthetic aromatic compound that gives vanilla flavor. It's used in medicines as a flavoring agent to mask bitter tastes and improve how the medicine tastes.
12 inactive ingredients listed in the exact product block matched to this NDC.
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ingredient classCode="IACT" elements from the exact product block matched by this NDC. Label-section narrative from DailyMed / the openFDA label index is shown separately when available.Inactive ingredient FAQ
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💲 Pricing
A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.
| Price system | Per ea | Per package |
|---|---|---|
| Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly | $0.456 | $13.67 / 30 tablet |
| Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo | No recent Medicaid claims on file for this NDC — rare and low-volume NDCs are suppressed in the public data. | |
| Medicare drug plans payPart D · Q2 2026 | $0.6937 | $20.81 / 30 tablet |
Where does this data come from?
🔁 Therapeutic equivalents
| Product | Labeler | Pack | NADAC/unit | TE | Status | Price vs. this |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 00527-1932-06 | Lannett | 60 tablets | $0.456 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 00904-6872-04 | Major | 1 tablet | $0.456 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mgthis 50268-0179-13 | AvPAK | 1 tablet | $0.456 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 57237-0045-60 | Rising | 60 tablets | $0.456 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 60687-0435-21 | American | 1 tablet | $0.456 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 62135-0615-60 | Chartwell | 60 tablets | $0.456 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 68002-0104-04 | American | 1 tablet | $0.456 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 73473-0910-60 | Solaris | 60 tablets | $0.456 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 00781-1962-60 | Sandoz | 60 tablets | $0.488 | AB | Availability likely | +7% |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 43063-0530-14 | PD-Rx | 14 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 43063-0752-14 | PD-Rx | 14 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 43063-0823-20 | PD-Rx | 20 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 46708-0345-30 | Alembic | 30 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 50090-1830-00 | A-S | 20 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 50090-5282-00 | A-S | 20 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 51655-0668-20 | Northwind | 20 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 62332-0345-30 | Alembic | 30 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 63187-0376-20 | Proficient | 20 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 63187-0625-14 | Proficient | 14 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 65862-0226-10 | Aurobindo | 10 tablets | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 67046-1515-03 | Coupler | 30 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 68071-3116-02 | NuCare | 20 tablets | — | AB | Discontinued | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 68071-5045-02 | NuCare | 20 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 68788-8480-02 | Preferred | 20 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 70518-0204-00 | REMEDYREPACK | 30 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 71335-0017-01 | Bryant | 20 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 71335-1493-01 | Bryant | 20 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 72189-0299-20 | DirectRx | 20 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 72189-0639-10 | Direct_Rx | 10 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 76420-0051-14 | Asclemed | 14 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 82804-0069-20 | Proficient | 20 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 82804-0141-14 | Proficient | 14 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 82868-0085-20 | Northwind | 20 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 85766-0198-01 | Sportpharm | 100 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Clarithromycin 500 mg 85766-0203-01 | Sportpharm | 100 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
Where does this data come from?
⏳ Availability & generic status
This product is an FDA-approved generic. Other versions of the same drug are listed under Therapeutic equivalents, least expensive first.
Where does this data come from?
📊 Medicare Part D spend CMS · PART D · 2026 (Q1)
📦 Packaging — all sizes for this product
| Package NDC | Description | Marketing start | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50268-0179-13 You're viewing this | 30 BLISTER PACK in 1 BOX, UNIT-DOSE (50268-179-13) / 1 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BLISTER PACK (50268-179-11) | 2016-10-10 | Active |
📄 Full prescribing information FDA SPL
🎯 Indications and Usage ▾
INDICATIONS AND USAGE
1.1Acute Bacterial Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis Clarithromycin tablets are indicated in adults for the treatment of mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible isolates due to Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae [see Indications and Usage (1.9)].
1.2Acute Maxillary Sinusitis Clarithromycin tablets are indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible isolates due to Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae [see Indications and Usage (1.9)].
1.3Community-Acquired Pneumonia Clarithromycin tablets are indicated [see Indications and Usage (1.9)] for the treatment of mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible isolates due to: • Haemophilus influenzae (in adults) • Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae (clarithromycin tablets [in adults and pediatric patients])
1.4Pharyngitis / Tonsillitis Clarithromycin tablets are indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible isolates due to Streptococcus pyogenes as an alternative in individuals who cannot use first line therapy.
1.5Uncomplicated Skin and Skin Structure Infections Clarithromycin tablets are indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible isolates due to Staphylococcus aureus, or Streptococcus pyogenes.
1.6Acute Otitis Media Clarithromycin tablets are indicated in pediatric patients for the treatment of mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible isolates due to Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae [see Clinical Studies (14.2)].
1.7Treatement of Prophylaxis of Disseminated Mycobacterial Infections Clarithromycin tablets are indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible isolates due to Mycobacterium avium or Mycobacterium intracellulare in patients with advanced HIV infection [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].
1.8Helicobacter pylori Infection and Duodenal Ulcer Disease Clarithromycin tablets are given in combination with other drugs in adults as described below to eradicate H. pylori. The eradication of H. pylori has been demonstrated to reduce the risk of duodenal ulcer recurrence [see Clinical Studies (14.3)]. • Clarithromycin tablets in combination with amoxicillin and PREVACID (lansoprazole) or PRILOSEC (omeprazole) Delayed-Release Capsules, as triple therapy, are indicated for the treatment of patients with H. pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease (active or five-year history of duodenal ulcer) to eradicate H. pylori. • Clarithromycin tablets in combination with PRILOSEC (omeprazole) capsules are indicated for the treatment of patients with an active duodenal ulcer associated with H. pylori infection.
Regimens which contain clarithromycin tablets as the single antibacterial agent are more likely to be associated with the development of clarithromycin resistance among patients who fail therapy Clarithromycin containing regimens should not be used in patients with known or suspected clarithromycin resistant isolates because the efficacy of treatment is reduced in this setting.
1.9Limitations of Use There is resistance to macrolides in certain bacterial infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. Susceptibility testing should be performed when clinically indicated.
1.10Usage To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of clarithromycin tablets and other antibacterial drugs, clarithromycin tablets should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the em…
⏱️ Dosage and Administration ▾
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
2.1Importrant Administration Instructions Clarithromycin tablets may be given with or without food.
2.2Adult Dosage The recommended dosages of clarithromycin tablets for the treatment of mild to moderate infections in adults are listed in Table 1. 1
2.3Combination Dosing Regimens for H. pylori Infection • Triple therapy: Clarithromycin tablets/lansoprazole/amoxicillin The recommended adult dosage is 500 mg clarithromycin tablets, 30 mg lansoprazole, and 1 gram amoxicillin, all given every 12 hours for 10 or 14 days [see Indications and Usage (1.8) and Clinical Studies (14.3)]. • Triple therapy: Clarithromycin tablets/omeprazole/amoxicillin The recommended adult dosage is 500 mg clarithromycin tablets, 20 mg omeprazole, and 1 gram amoxicillin; all given every 12 hours for 10 days.
In patients with an ulcer present at the time of initiation of therapy, an additional 18 days of omeprazole 20 mg once daily is recommended for ulcer healing and symptom relief [see Indications and Usage (1.8) and Clinical Studies (14.3)]. • Dual therapy: Clarithromycin tablets/omeprazole The recommended adult dosage is 500 mg clarithromycin tablets given every 8 hours and 40 mg omeprazole given once every morning for 14 days. An additional 14 days of omeprazole 20 mg once daily is recommended for ulcer healing and symptom relief [see Indications and Usage (1.8) and Clinical Studies (14.3)].
2.4Pediatric Dosage The recommended daily dosage is 15 mg/kg/day divided every 12 hours for 10 days (up to the adult dose). Refer to dosage regimens for mycobacterial infections in pediatric patients for additional dosage information [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].
2.5Dosage Regimens for Mycobacterial Infections For the treatment of disseminated infection due to Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), clarithromycin tablets are recommended as the primary agents. Clarithromycin tablets should be used in combination with other antimycobacterial drugs (e.g., ethambutol) that have shown in vitro activity against MAC or clinical benefit in MAC treatment [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. Adult Patients For treatment and prophylaxis of mycobacterial infections in adults, the recommended dose of clarithromycin tablets is 500 mg every 12 hours.
Pediatric Patients For treatment and prophylaxis of mycobacterial infections in pediatric patients, the recommended dose is 7.5 mg/kg every 12 hours up to 500 mg every 12 hours. [See Use in Specific Populations (8.4) and Clinical Studies (14.1)]. Clarithromycin tablets therapy should continue if clinical response is observed. Clarithromycin tablets can be discontinued when the patient is considered at low risk of disseminated infection.
2.6Dosage Adjustment in Patients with Renal Impairment See Table 2 for dosage adjustment in patients with moderate or severe renal impairment with or without concomitant atazanavir or ritonavir-containing regimens [see Drug Interactions (7)]. 1
2.7Dosage Adjustment Due to Drug Interactions Decrease the dose of clarithromycin tablets by 50 % when co-administered with atazanavir [see Drug Interactions (7)]. Dosage adjustments for other drugs when co-administered with clarithromycin tablets may be recommended due to drug interactions [see Drug Interactions (7)].
⛔ Contraindications ▾
CONTRAINDICATIONS
4.1Hypersensitivity Clarithromycin tablets are contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to clarithromycin, erythromycin, or any of the macrolide antibacterial drugs [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
4.2Cisapride and Pimozide Concomitant administration of clarithromycin tablets with cisapride and pimozide is contraindicated [see Drug Interactions (7)]. There have been postmarketing reports of drug interactions when clarithromycin is co-administered with cisapride or pimozide, resulting in cardiac arrhythmias (QT prolongation, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and torsades de pointes) most likely due to inhibition of metabolism of these drugs by clarithromycin tablets. Fatalities have been reported.
4.3Cholestatic Jaundice / Hepatic Dysfunction Clarithromycin tablets are contraindicated in patients with a history of cholestatic jaundice or hepatic dysfunction associated with prior use of clarithromycin.
4.4Colchicine Concomitant administration of clarithromycin tablets and colchicine is contraindicated in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.
4.5Lomitapide, Lovastatin, and Simvastatin Concomitant administration of clarithromycin tablets with lomitapide is contraindicated due to potential for markedly increased transaminases [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Drug Interactions (7)]. Concomitant administration of clarithromycin tablets with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) that are extensively metabolized by CYP3A4 (lovastatin or simvastatin) is contraindicated, due to the increased risk of myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Drug Interactions (7)].
4.6Ergot Alkaloids Concomitant administration of clarithromycin and ergotamine or dihydroergotamine is contraindicated [see Drug Interactions (7)].
4.7Lurasidone Concomitant administration of clarithromycin and lurasidone is contraindicated since it may result in an increase in lurasidone exposure and the potential for serious adverse reactions [see Drug Interactions (7)].
4.8Contraindications for Co-administered Drugs For information about contraindications of other drugs indicated in combination with clarithromycin tablets, refer to their full prescribing information (contraindications section).
⚠️ Warnings and Cautions ▾
5.1Severe Acute Hypersensitivity Reactions In the event of severe acute hypersensitivity reactions, such as anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), Henoch-Schonlein purpura, and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, discontinue clarithromycin therapy immediately and institute appropriate treatment.
5.2QT Prolongation • Clarithromycin has been associated with prolongation of the QT interval and infrequent cases of arrhythmia. Cases of torsades de pointes have been spontaneously reported during postmarketing surveillance in patients receiving clarithromycin. Fatalities have been reported.
Avoid clarithromycin in the following patients: • patients with known prolongation of the QT interval, ventricular cardiac arrhythmia, including torsades de pointes • patients receiving drugs known to prolong the QT interval [see also Contraindications (4.2)] • patients with ongoing proarrhythmic conditions such as uncorrected hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, clinically significant bradycardia and in patients receiving Class IA (e.g., quinidine, procainamide, disopyramide) or Class III (e.g., dofetilide, amiodarone, sotalol) antiarrhythmic agents.
Elderly patients may be more susceptible to drug-associated effects on the QT interval [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5)].
5.3Hepatotoxicity Hepatic dysfunction, including increased liver enzymes, and hepatocellular and/or cholestatic hepatitis, with or without jaundice, has been reported with clarithromycin. This hepatic dysfunction may be severe and is usually reversible. In some instances, hepatic failure with fatal outcome has been reported and generally has been associated with serious underlying diseases and/or concomitant medications.
Symptoms of hepatitis can include anorexia, jaundice, dark urine, pruritus, or tender abdomen. Discontinue clarithromycin immediately if signs and symptoms of hepatitis occur.
5.4Serious Adverse Reactions Due to Concomitant Use with Other Drugs Drugs metabolized by CYP3A4: Serious adverse reactions have been reported in patients taking clarithromycin concomitantly with CYP3A4 substrates. These include colchicine toxicity with colchicine; markedly increased transaminases with lomitapide; rhabdomyolysis with simvastatin, lovastatin, and atorvastatin; hypoglycemia and cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., torsades de pointes) with disopyramide; and hypotension and acute kidney injury with calcium channel blockers metabolized by CYP3A4 (e.g., verapamil, amlodipine, diltiazem, nifedipine).
Most reports of acute kidney injury with calcium channel blockers metabolized by CYP3A4 involved elderly patients 65 years of age or older. Use clarithromycin with caution when administered concurrently with medications that induce the cytochrome CYP3A4 enzyme. The use of clarithromycin with lomitapide, simvastatin, lovastatin, ergotamine, or dihydroergotamine is contraindicated [see Contraindications (4.5, 4.6) and Drug Interactions (7)].
Colchicine : Life-threatening and fatal drug interactions have been reported in patients treated with clarithromycin and colchicine. Clarithromycin is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and this interaction may occur while using both drugs at their recommended doses. If co-administration of clarithromycin and colchicine is necessary in patients with normal renal and hepatic function, reduce the dose of colchicine.
Monitor patients for clinical symptoms of colchicine toxicity. Concomitant administration of clarithromycin and colchicine is contraindicated in patients with renal or hepatic impairment [see Contraindications (4.4) and Drug Interactions (7)]. Lomitapide: Concomitant use of clarithromycin with lomitapide is contraindicated [see Contraindications (4.5)].
Lomitapide is metabolized by CYP3A4, and concomitant treatment with clarithromycin increases the plasma concentration of lomitapide, which increases the risk of elevation in transaminases [see Drug Interactions…
🤒 Adverse Reactions ▾
ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are described below and elsewhere in the labeling: • Acute Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] • QT Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] • Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] • Serious Adverse Reactions Due to Concomitant Use with Other Drugs [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] • Clostridium difficile Associated Diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)] • Exacerbation of Myasthenia Gravis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]
6.1Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Based on pooled data across all indications, the most frequent adverse reactions for both adult and pediatric populations observed in clinical trials are abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and dysgeusia. Also reported were dyspepsia, liver function test abnormal, anaphylactic reaction, candidiasis, headache, insomnia, and rash.
The subsequent subsections list the most common adverse reactions for prophylaxis and treatment of mycobacterial infections and duodenal ulcer associated with H. pylori infection. In general, these profiles are consistent with the pooled data described above. Prophylaxis of Mycobacterial Infections In AIDS patients treated with clarithromycin over long periods of time for prophylaxis against M. avium, it was often difficult to distinguish adverse reactions possibly associated with clarithromycin administration from underlying HIV disease or intercurrent illness.
Median duration of treatment was 10.6 months for the clarithromycin group and 8.2 months for the placebo group. Discontinuation due to adverse reactions occurred in 18% of patients receiving clarithromycin compared to 17% of patients receiving placebo in this trial. Primary reasons for discontinuation in clarithromycin treated patients include headache, nausea, vomiting, depression, and taste perversion.
Changes in Laboratory Values Selected laboratory adverse experiences that were reported during therapy in greater than 2 % of adult patients treated with clarithromycin in a randomized double-blind clinical trial involving 682 patients are presented in Table 5. In immunocompromised patients receiving prophylaxis against M. avium, evaluations of laboratory values were made by analyzing those values outside the seriously abnormal value (i.e., the extreme high or low limit) for the specified test. Treatment of Mycobacterial Infections The adverse reaction profiles for both the 500 mg and 1000 mg twice a day dose regimens were similar.
In AIDS patients and other immunocompromised patients treated with the higher doses of clarithromycin over long periods of time for mycobacterial infections, it was often difficult to distinguish adverse reactions possibly associated with clarithromycin administration from underlying signs of HIV disease or intercurrent illness. The following analysis summarizes experience during the first 12 weeks of therapy with clarithromycin. Data are reported separately for trial 1 (randomized, double-blind) and trial 2 (open-labeled, compassionate use) and also combined.
Adverse reactions were reported less frequently in trial 2, which may be due in part to differences in monitoring between the two studies. In adult patients receiving clarithromycin 500 mg twice a day, the most frequently reported adverse reactions, considered possibly or possibly related to study drug, with an incidence of 5% or greater, are listed below (Table 6). Approximately 8% of the patients who received 500 mg twice a day and 12% of the patients who received 1000 mg twice a day discontinued therapy due to drug related adverse reactions during the first 12 weeks of therapy; adverse reactions leading to discontinuatio…
🔄 Drug Interactions ▾
DRUG INTERACTIONS Co-administration of clarithromycin is known to inhibit CYP3A, and a drug primarily metabolized by CYP3A may be associated with elevations in drug concentrations that could increase or prolong both therapeutic and adverse effects of the concomitant drug. Clarithromycin should be used with caution in patients receiving treatment with other drugs known to be CYP3A enzyme substrates, especially if the CYP3A substrate has a narrow safety margin (e.g., carbamazepine) and/or the substrate is extensively metabolized by this enzyme.
Adjust dosage when appropriate and monitor serum concentrations of drugs primarily metabolized by CYP3A closely in patients concurrently receiving clarithromycin. 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
👥 Use in Specific Populations ▾
USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on findings from animal studies, clarithromycin is not recommended for use in pregnant women except in clinical circumstances where no alternative therapy is appropriate. If pregnancy occurs while taking clarithromycin, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]. Limited data from a small number of published human studies with clarithromycin use during pregnancy are insufficient to inform drug-associated risks of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes.
In animal reproduction studies, administration of oral clarithromycin to pregnant mice, rats, rabbits, and monkeys during the period of organogenesis produced malformations in rats (cardiovascular anomalies) and mice (cleft palate) at clinically relevant doses based on body surface area comparison. Fetal effects in mice, rats, and monkeys (e.g., reduced fetal survival, body weight, body weight gain) and implantation losses in rabbits were generally considered to be secondary to maternal toxicity (see Data). The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown.
All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data Animal reproduction studies were conducted in mice, rats, rabbits, and monkeys with oral and intravenously administered clarithromycin.
In pregnant mice, clarithromycin was administered during organogenesis (gestation day [GD] 6 to 15) at oral doses of 15, 60, 250, 500, or 1000 mg/kg/day. Reduced body weight observed in dams at 1000 mg/kg/day (3 times the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD] based on body surface area comparison) resulted in reduced survival and body weight of the fetuses. At ≥ 500 mg/kg/day, increases in the incidence of postimplantation loss and cleft palate in the fetuses were observed.
No adverse developmental effects were observed in mice at ≤ 250 mg/kg/day (≤ 1 times MRHD based on body surface area comparison). In pregnant Sprague Dawley rats, clarithromycin was administered during organogenesis (GD 6 to 15) at oral doses of 15, 50, or 150 mg/kg/day. Reductions in body weight and food consumption was observed in dams at 150 mg/kg/day.
Increased resorptions and reduced body weight of the fetuses at this dose were considered secondary to maternal toxicity. Additionally, at 150 mg/kg/day (1 times MRHD based on body surface area comparison), a low incidence of cardiovascular anomalies (complete situs inversus, undivided truncus, IV septal defect) was observed in the fetuses. Clarithromycin did not cause adverse developmental effects in rats at 50 mg/kg/day (0.3 times MRHD based on body surface area comparison).
Intravenous dosing of clarithromycin during organogenesis in rats (GD 6 to 15) at 15, 50, or 160 mg/kg/day was associated with maternal toxicity (reduced body weight, body-weight gain, and food consumption) at 160 mg/kg/day but no evidence of adverse developmental effects at any dose (≤ 1 times MRHD based on body surface area comparison). In pregnant Wistar rat, clarithromycin was administered during organogenesis (GD 7 to 17) at oral doses of 10, 40, or 160 mg/kg/day. Reduced body weight and food consumption were observed in dams at 160 mg/kg/day but there was no evidence of adverse developmental effects at any dose (≤ 1 times MRHD based on body surface area comparison).
In pregnant rabbits, clarithromycin administered during organogenesis (GD 6 to 18) at oral doses of 10, 35, or 125 mg/kg/day resulted in reduced maternal food consumption and decreased body weight at the highest dose, with no evidence of any adverse developmental effects at any dose (≤ 2 times MRHD based on body surface area comparison). In…
🆘 Overdosage ▾
OVERDOSAGE Overdosage of clarithromycin can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. Treat adverse reactions accompanying overdosage by the prompt elimination of unabsorbed drug and supportive measures. As with other macrolides, clarithromycin serum concentrations are not expected to be appreciably affected by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.
🧬 Clinical Pharmacology ▾
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1Mechanism of Action Clarithromycin is a macrolide antimicrobial drug [see Microbiology (12.4)].
12.3Pharmacokinetics Absorption The absolute bioavailability of 250 mg clarithromycin tablets was approximately 50%. For a single 500 mg dose of clarithromycin, food slightly delays the onset of clarithromycin absorption, increasing the peak time from approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Food also increases the clarithromycin peak plasma concentration by about 24%, but does not affect the extent of clarithromycin bioavailability.
Food does not affect the onset of formation of the active metabolite, 14-OH clarithromycin or its peak plasma concentration but does slightly decrease the extent of metabolite formation, indicated by an 11% decrease in area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC). Therefore, clarithromycin tablets may be given without regard to food. In non-fasting healthy human subjects (males and females), peak plasma concentrations were attained within 2 to 3 hours after oral dosing.
Distribution Clarithromycin and the 14-OH clarithromycin metabolite distribute readily into body tissues and fluids. There are no data available on cerebrospinal fluid penetration. Because of high intracellular concentrations, tissue concentrations are higher than serum concentrations.
Examples of tissue and serum concentrations are presented below. Table 9. Tissue and Serum Concentrations of Clarithromycin CONCENTRATION (after 250 mg q 12 h) Tissue Type Tissue (mcg/g) Serum (mcg/mL) Tonsil 1.6
0.8Lung 8.8
1.7Metabolism and Elimination Steady-state peak plasma clarithromycin concentrations were attained within 3 days and were approximately 1 mcg/mL to 2 mcg/mL with a 250 mg dose administered every 12 hours and 3 mcg/mL to 4 mcg/mL with a 500 mg dose administered every 8 hours to 12 hours. The elimination half-life of clarithromycin was about 3 hours to 4 hours with 250 mg administered every 12 hours but increased to 5 hours to 7 hours with 500 mg administered every 8 hours to 12 hours. The nonlinearity of clarithromycin pharmacokinetics is slight at the recommended doses of 250 mg and 500 mg administered every 8 hours to 12 hours.
With a 250 mg every 12 hours dosing, the principal metabolite, 14-OH clarithromycin, attains a peak steady-state concentration of about 0.6 mcg/mL and has an elimination halflife of 5 hours to 6 hours. With a 500 mg every 8 hours to 12 hours dosing, the peak steady-state concentration of 14-OH clarithromycin is slightly higher (up to 1 mcg/mL), and its elimination half-life is about 7 hours to 9 hours. With any of these dosing regimens, the steady-state concentration of this metabolite is generally attained within 3 days to 4 days.
After a 250 mg tablet every 12 hours, approximately 20% of the dose is excreted in the urine as clarithromycin, while after a 500 mg tablet every 12 hours, the urinary excretion of clarithromycin is somewhat greater, approximately 30%. In comparison, after an oral dose of 250 mg (125 mg/5 mL) suspension every 12 hours, approximately 40% is excreted in urine as clarithromycin. The renal clearance of clarithromycin is, however, relatively independent of the dose size and approximates the normal glomerular filtration rate.
The major metabolite found in urine is 14-OH clarithromycin, which accounts for an additional 10% to 15% of the dose with either a 250 mg or a 500 mg tablet administered every 12 hours. Specific Populations for Clarithromycin Tablets HIV Infection Steady-state concentrations of clarithromycin and 14-OH clarithromycin observed following administration of 500 mg doses of clarithromycin every 12 hours to adult patients with HIV infection were similar to those observed in healthy volunteers. In adult HIVinfected patients taking 500 mg or 1000 mg doses of clarithromycin every 12 hours, steady-state clarithromycin Cmax values ranged from 2 mcg/mL to 4 mcg/mL and 5 mcg/mL to 10 mcg/mL, respectively.
Hepatic Impairment The steady-state concentration…
📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling ▾
HOW SUPPLIED Clarithromycin Tablets USP, 250 mg are light yellow colored, oval shaped, biconvex film-coated tablets, with 'D' debossed on one side and '62' on the other side. NDC 50268-178-15 (10 tablets per card, 5 cards per carton) Clarithromycin Tablets USP, 500 mg are light yellow colored, oval shaped, biconvex film-coated tablets, with 'D' debossed on one side and '63' on the other side. NDC 50268-179-13 (10 tablets per card, 3 cards per carton) Dispensed in Unit Dose Package.
For Institutional Use Only. Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
📋 Description ▾
DESCRIPTION Clarithromycin is a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic. Chemically, it is 6- 0 -methylerythromycin. The molecular formula is C 38 H 69 NO 13 , and the molecular weight is 747.96.
The structural formula is: Clarithromycin USP is a white or almost white, crystalline powder. It is soluble in acetone, slightly soluble in methanol, ethanol, and acetonitrile, and practically insoluble in water. Clarithromycin tablets, USP are available as immediate-release tablets.
Each film-coated tablet contains 250 mg or 500 mg of clarithromycin USP and the following inactive ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, povidone, hypromellose, titanium dioxide, hydroxypropyl cellulose, iron oxide yellow, propylene glycol, vanillin, and sorbic acid. Chemcial Structure