Biaxin (generic name: Clarithromycin) is used to treat many different types of bacterial infections affecting the skin and respiratory system, including:
Strep throat
Pneumonia
Sinusitis (inflamed sinuses)
Tonsillitis (inflamed tonsils)
Acute middle ear infections
Acute flare-ups of chronic bronchitis
It also is used to treat and prevent disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection [a type of lung infection that often affects people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)]. It is used in combination with other medications to eliminate H. pylori, a bacteria that causes ulcers.
It also is used sometimes to treat other types of infections including Lyme disease (an infection that may develop after a person is bitten by a tick), crypotosporidiosis (an infection that causes diarrhea), cat scratch disease (an infection that may develop after a person is bitten or scratched by a cat), Legionnaires' disease (a type of lung infection), and pertussis (whooping cough; a serious infection that can cause severe coughing). It is also sometimes used to prevent heart infection in patients having dental or other procedures.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Biaxin works by stopping the growth of or killing sensitive bacteria by interfering with their protein synthesis.
Recommendations
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Take Biaxin by mouth with or without food.
Biaxin works best if it is taken at the same time each day.
Continue to take Biaxin even if you feel well.
Do not miss any doses. If you miss a dose of Biaxin, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.
Contact your doctor if you experience any allergic reaction while taking Biaxin.
Biaxin is not recommended for children under 6 months of age.
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