Clarithromycin Injection

Clarithromycin Injection comes with the branding “Clarisin-500” and is used to treat infections caused by certain bacteria, including infections of the chest, like bronchitis or pneumonia, skin infections like cellulitis, which is a bacterial infection that causes the skin to swell up, become red and is usually tender and warm to touch, as well as ear infections. Besides this, the product is also applied as a part of a combination with other medications to treat duodenal ulcers that are associated with H. pylori.

Clarithromycin Injection contains Clarithromycin (antibiotic). It causes impairment of the protein-forming process that is essential to the growth of the bacterial cell. Therefore, bacterial cells cannot reproduce and grow in this case. As a result, it has a bacteriostatic effect and contributes to the prevention of infections.

Medical Benefits

• This medicine belongs to the group of macrolide class of antibiotics and demonstrates a high degree of activity against most Gram-negative and Gram-positive organisms, anaerobes and certain parasites like Balantidium coli and Entamoeba species.
• It is used to treat a wide variety of infections caused by bacteria such as infections of the chest like pneumonia, skin infections like cellulitis or infection in the ear.
• It is also prescribed jointly with other medicines to treat duodenal ulcers in connection with H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori).
• It is sometimes used by people who are allergic to penicillin and another antibiotic with a similar group to penicillin such as amoxicillin.

Directions For Use

• Clean injection site and vial stopper with alcohol swabs.
• Draw air into the syringe, inject it into the vial, and then draw the dose.
• Remove air bubbles.
• Inject at the correct angle (90° for muscle, 45° for under the skin).
• Push the plunger slowly, withdraw the needle, and press the site with a swab.

Storage

• Place the medicine in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight or heat.
• Store it out of reach of children to prevent any potential accidents.

Precautions

• It should be used in pregnant or breastfeeding women only if clinically needed.
• Clarithromycin Injection can be given safely to children in the form of suspension only, dose to be adjusted and recommended by a child specialist only.
• Avoid taking too much calcium, iron-enriched foods and drinks as it might affect the working of this medicine.
• Food containing calcium and iron should be avoided as it may affect the injection’s effectiveness. Also, prevent the intake of grapefruit or grapefruit juice with his medicine.
• Limit the intake of alcohol as it may lead to drowsiness and affect its absorption.

Side Effects

• Taste change
• Bloating
• Nausea (feeling sick)
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Indigestion
• Being sick (vomiting)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can this medicine be used for the common cold? 

Thus, it only works on bacterial infections and not any other types of infections. No, it does not help in viral illnesses such as the flu or a cold.

Is this injection a penicillin? 

No, this medication is in the macrolide antibiotic group of drugs. It can be administered to patients with a penicillin allergy but this has to be under the supervision of a doctor.

What are the side effects of this medication and how long do they last? 

Unfavourable effects of Clarithromycin are quite mild and occur in few patients and most reactions are temporary, clearing after one or two days. If they continue, get in touch with your physician at once.

Can I discontinue Clarithromycin if I start to feel better?

No, you should not stop taking Clarithromycin even if you notice an improvement in your condition. For the same infection not to come back in another worse form, it is crucial to follow the complete regimen laid down by the doctor.