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Generic Name: Clarithromycin
Brand Name(s):
Information updated: April 1, 2000
Overview
Biaxin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic related to erythromycin.
It is
prescribed to fight respiratory tract infections including pneumonia and
infections of the skin.
Side Effects and Interactions
The most frequent side effects involve
digestive tract upset.
People taking Biaxin report fewer side effects
than those on erythromycin, but diarrhea, nausea, abnormal taste, stomachache
and upset stomach are potential reactions.
Headache has also been
reported. Let your doctor know promptly of any symptoms you
experience.
Biaxin interacts with a few other medicines.
It may boost
blood levels of the anti-seizure medication Tegretol
by 60 percent or more, leading to increased toxicity.
The asthma drug theophylline,
the blood thinner Coumadin
and the anti-AIDS drug Retrovir (AZT) appear to interact with Biaxin.
It
should not be taken by people who are also taking the antihistamines Seldane or
Hismanal, as it could lead to a dangerous build-up of these drugs in the body.
Check with your pharmacist and physician to make sure Biaxin is safe in
combination with any other drugs you take.
Special Precautions
Because Biaxin, like erythromycin, is eliminated from the body by the liver, this drug should be used very cautiously, if at all, by people with liver problems.
Anyone with a history of allergy to erythromycin-type antibiotics should probably avoid Biaxin. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, rash and itching.
In rare instances allergy may trigger life-threatening anaphylactic shock.
Pregnant women should avoid Biaxin unless the doctor finds no other appropriate therapy. This medication has caused birth defects in animal tests.
Taking the Medicine
Biaxin may be taken with or without food. Doses are usually spaced evenly throughout the day.
Check with your physician or pharmacist for specific instructions, and be sure to complete
the full course of medication unless directed otherwise.
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist. Teresa Graedon holds a doctorate in medical anthropology and is a nutrition expert. Their syndicated radio show can be heard on public radio.
© 2000