Biaxin

Uses:
Clarithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections and skin infections. It is also used to treat peptic ulcers in combination with anti-ulcer medication. It is also used to treat ear infections in children.

How to Take:
Biaxin may be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. Shake well before using. Take each dose followed by fluids. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Continue to take Biaxin until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow resulting in a relapse of the infection.

Side Effects:
Biaxin may cause stomach upset, nausea, indigestion, loose stools, loss of appetite, vomiting, headache, or a strange taste in the mouth the first few days as your body adjusts to it. If these symptoms continue or become severe, inform your doctor. If you develop diarrhea while taking Biaxin, notify your doctor. Do not take any nonprescription medications to treat diarrhea without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Unlikely but report promptly dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin, mental/mood changes, or an irregular heartbeat. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing. Use of Biaxin for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a secondary infection (e.g., oral, bladder or vaginal yeast infection). If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions:
Tell your doctor if you have other illnesses or any allergies, especially allergies to drugs. If you have had liver disease, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), kidney disease, a history of colitis; stomach or heart problems, tell your doctor before taking Biaxin. Biaxin should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Small amounts of drug do appear in breast milk, so consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions:
Tell your doctor of all drugs you may use, (prescription and nonprescription), especially of the following: barbiturates; benzodiazepines (e.g., midazolam, triazolam); birth control pills; carbamazepine; cisapride; cyclosporine; digoxin; ergotamine/ergot related drugs; certain live vaccines; omeprazole; phenytoin; pimozide; terfenadine; astemizole; theophylline; warfarin; certain drugs for high cholesterol (e.g., lovastatin). Biaxin may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Notes:
Biaxin has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or give it to someone else. A different medication may be necessary.

Storage:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Discard suspension after 14 days.

NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.