Biaxin XL
Generic name:clarithromycin [ kla-RITH-roe-MYE-sin ]
Drug class:Macrolides
What is Biaxin XL?
Biaxin XL (clarithromycin) is a macrolide antibiotic that fights bacteria in your body.
Biaxin XL is used to treat many different types of bacterial infections affecting the skin and respiratory system.
Biaxin XL is also used together with other medicines to treat stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori.
Warnings
Take Biaxin XL for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics. Clarithromycin will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.
You should not use Biaxin XL if you are allergic to clarithromycin or similar antibiotics, if you have ever had jaundice or liver problems caused by taking Biaxin XL, or if you have liver or kidney disease and are also taking colchicine.
Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using. Many drugs can interact with clarithromycin, and some drugs should not be used together.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Biaxin XL if you are allergic to clarithromycin or similar medicines such as azithromycin (Zithromax, Z-Pak, Zmax), erythromycin, or telithromycin, or if:
you have had jaundice or liver problems caused by taking clarithromycin; or
you have liver or kidney disease and you also take a medicine called colchicine.
Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used with Biaxin XL. Your doctor may need to change your treatment plan if you use any of the following drugs:
cisapride;
lovastatin or simvastatin; or
To make sure Biaxin XL is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
a heart disorder;
long QT syndrome (in you or a family member);
coronary artery disease (clogged arter...
