Antimicrobials
Clarithromycin

Clarithromycin

Medium
Excellent
$1/day

Spectrum of Activity

General Information

Second line for community aquired pneumonia (drug of choice if atypical), URTI, H. pylori, and mycobacterial infections

Monitor QTc in patients with increased risk

  • GI upset, diarrhea
  • Rash
  • Prolongation of QTc interval

Substrate of CYP3A4. Multiple CYP450 interactions possible - consult a pharmacist for more detail. May increase digoxin, carbamazepine level. Caution with QTc prolonging medications

Concentration: 25 mg/mL Taste: palatable Not all strengths of oral liquids are listed nor are available on IWK formulary

250 mg tablet

Tablets and capsules are preferred especially over an unpleasant tasting liquid.

Not all strengths of oral tablets/capsules are listed and they are not all available on the IWK formulary.

Antimicrobial class: Macrolide

Average serum half life: Adult: Clarithromycin: 3-7 hours 14-OH-clarithromycin (active metabolite): 5-9 hours

Route of Elimination: Urine (20-40% as unchanged drug, additional 10%-15% as active metabolite); feces (29% to 40% mostly as metabolites)