Antimicrobials
Clarithromycin

Clarithromycin

Medium
Moderate (40 to 70%)
$

Spectrum of Activity

Dosing

General Information

  • CAP
  • Pertussis
  • URTI
  • H. pylori
  • 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
  • Use caution with QTc prolonging medications

Prisma Health Inpatient Formulary
Suspension: 250 mg/5 mL

Other Available Outpatient Strengths
Suspension: 125 mg/5 mL

Prisma Health Inpatient Formulary
Tablet: 250 mg, 500 mg

Other Available Outpatient Strengths
Extended-release tablet (24-hr): 500 mg

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)