Drug name: Biaxin (Clarithromycin)

Therapeutic effects: The preparation is an antibacterial drug, belonging to the group of Macrolides. The drug is a semi-synthetic derivative of erythromycin. Due to the changes in the molecule the drug, in comparison with erythromycin, the drug is more stable, more bioavailable and as a result the spectrum of affected bacteria increases and the frequency of intakes is lowered to 2 a day. The drug is rapidly absorbed and the maximum concentration is reached within 2-3 hours after administration.

Indications: The drug is administered in treatment of susceptible bacterial flora:

• Sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis and upper respiratory tract infections
• Folliculitis, erysipelas, streptodermia
• Bronchitis, pneumonia
• Ortodontal system infections
• Certain mycobacterial infections for example Mycobacterium intacellulare
• As complex treatment of Heliobacter Pylori infections

The drug may express the following side-effects:

• Gastrointestinal tract: nausea, stomatiits, epigastral pain, glossitis, vomiting, change of taste, tongue discoloration, diarrhea, pseudomembranous colitis.
• CNS: headache, confusion, dizziness, anxiety, insomnia, ear ringing, hallucinations, disorientation, psychosis, depersonalization.
• Cardiovascular system: prolongation of QT interval, tachycardia.
• Allergic reactions: rash, hives, anaphylactic shock.
• Change in laboratory indices.

Drug interactions:

The drug interacts with:

• Xantines
• Immunosupressors
• Alkaloids
• Tranquilizers
• Anticoagulants
• Cardiac glycosides
• Statine drugs
• Antivirals

Cautions and restrictions:

• The drug must be avoided in the following conditions:
• Age prior to 12 years
• Known allergic reactions to the drug or to other macrolides
• Porphyry

Additional information:

The drug should be kept in dry conditions, away from heating sources, at temperatures not exceeding 25C.