Concerns Splitting Clarithromycin 500mg Tablets

In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses splitting clarithromycin 500mg tablets.

Question

Hi, I was given clarithromycin 500 mg. The pill has 'D 63' on it. Can it be cut in half?

Asked by Caitlin On May 26, 2025

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published May 27, 2025
Last updated May 29, 2025

Answer

Hello and thanks for reaching out! In a pinch, you could split your clarithromycin 500 mg tablets, but it’s not ideal based on the film-coating the tablets have.

Clarithromycin 500 mg tablets with the imprint “D 63” are not extended-release or modified-release, so splitting them won’t interfere with any time-based drug delivery. However, they are film-coated, and that coating is there for a reason:

  • It helps mask the bitter taste of the medication
  • It improves ease of swallowing
  • It protects the drug from moisture and light
  • It helps ensure consistent absorption

In addition, your clarithromycin tablets are not scored, meaning they aren't designed to be split. Here's an image of the tablets:

Clarithromycin 500 tab

The lack of a score could make them tough to break evenly (especially with the film coating).

If you’re trying to get a 250 mg dose, you have some options. Clarithromycin is available as a 250 mg tablet and also as a liquid suspension. Either of those would be a better choice than cutting a 500 mg tablet.

That said, if you find yourself in a situation where you really do need to split the 500 mg tablets, for example, if you already have it in hand and can’t swallow it whole, I do have a couple of tips for you:

  • Use a clean, sharp pill splitter for the best chance at an even cut
  • Don’t split all the tablets at once, only split right before taking
  • Don’t store split halves for long, as the exposed interior may degrade faster without the film coating
  • Take both halves at the same time to ensure you’re getting the full dose

So overall, yes, you can split it in a pinch, but if you can get the 250 mg tablet or liquid instead, that’s the better route.

Thanks for contacting us!

References

  • Erythromycin 500mg Monograph, DailyMED

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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