Description

COMPOSITION: Clarithromycin 250 mg

Clarithromycin (Macrolide antibiotics)

Mode of Action:

• It is a broad spectrum macrolide antibacterial agent active in vitro and effective in vivo against the major pathogens responsible for respiratory tract infections in immunocompetent patients.

• Clarithromycin exerts its antibacterial action by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunits of susceptible organisms and inhibiting protein synthesis.

• Shown to penetrate macrophages and leukocytes, which makes them particularly effective against intracellular pathogens such as Legionella pneumophila and Chlamydia species.

• In addition to its antimicrobial activity, the drug stimulates cellular host defense mechanisms involving the activation of protein kinase C.

• Clarithromycin is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The absolute bioavailability of 250 mg tablets is approximately 50%.

• Clarithromycin is metabolized in the liver and the stomach.

Comparative to other drugs:

• Clarithromycin provides similar clinical and bacteriological efficacy to that seen with beta-lactam agents, cephalosporins, and other macrolides.

• Pharmacokinetic profiles superior to that of erythromycin.

• Shows equal efficacy and better tolerability as compared to erythromycin in the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia.

• Clarithromycin twice daily is as effective and as well tolerated as penicillin in the treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis.

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

• Hypersensitivity to macrolide antibiotic drugs or any of its excipients Clarithromycin should not be given to patients with a history of ventricular cardiac arrhythmia.