Claribid Granules 21.15 Gm/30 Ml Suspension

CLARIBID GRANULES for Oral Suspension

CLARIBID GRANULES for Oral Suspension, manufactured by Abbott, is an antibiotic medication primarily used to treat various bacterial infections. This product, specified as "21.15 GM/30 ML SUSPENSION", is designed to be reconstituted into an oral suspension.

• Name:

  • Common Name: Clarithromycin
  • Brand Name: Claribid Granules for Oral Suspension (by Abbott)

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredient: Clarithromycin. It is a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic.
  • When reconstituted, common strengths are 125 mg/5 mL or 250 mg/5 mL of clarithromycin.

• Uses: Claribid is prescribed for a wide range of bacterial infections, including:

  • Respiratory Tract Infections: Such as acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, community-acquired pneumonia, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and sinusitis.
  • Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: Including cellulitis.
  • Ear Infections: Particularly otitis media (middle ear infection).
  • Eradication of Helicobacter pylori: In conjunction with other medicines to manage peptic ulcer disease.
  • Infections in Immunocompromised Individuals: Such as Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) in patients with HIV.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Claribid Granules are for oral administration after reconstitution.
  • Shake the bottle well before each use.
  • Measure the exact quantity using a measuring spoon or cup as advised by your doctor.
  • It can be taken with or without food.
  • Typical Dosage Guidance:
    • Children (6 months to 12 years): Recommended dose is usually 7.5 mg/kg body weight twice a day for 5 to 10 days.
    • Adults and Adolescents (>12 years): Standard dose is typically 250 mg twice daily, which may be increased to 500 mg twice daily for severe infections. The usual duration is 7 to 14 days.
    • For H. pylori Eradication: Typically 500 mg twice daily as part of a triple therapy regimen.
  • It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning or worsening.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia (indigestion), taste disturbances (e.g., metallic taste), headache, dizziness, insomnia, rash, and pruritus (itching).
  • Serious Side Effects: Include severe or persistent diarrhea (potentially Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea), allergic reactions (e.g., difficulty breathing, swelling of face/throat), liver problems (jaundice, dark urine), kidney issues, and heart rhythm abnormalities (e.g., QT prolongation, tachycardia).

• Precautions:

  • Allergies: Do not use if allergic to clarithromycin or any other macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, azithromycin).
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Caution is advised. It is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. Clarithromycin can pass into breast milk and may cause side effects in breastfed infants.
  • Liver and Kidney Impairment: Use with caution. Dose adjustments may be necessary. Contraindicated in severe liver disorders combined with kidney disorders.
  • Heart Conditions: Caution is advised in patients with existing heart rhythm abnormalities (e.g., QT prolongation, ventricular arrhythmias) or low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, as Claribid can interact with various drugs (e.g., certain antihistamines, statins, and medications for heart conditions). Avoid taking antacids within 2 hours of this medicine.
  • Driving and Machinery Use: May cause dizziness, vertigo, or confusion, so exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
  • Do not store above 30°C.
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Do not refrigerate or freeze the oral liquid after reconstitution.
  • Discard any unused mixed suspension after 14 days.

What is CLARIBID GRANULES used for?

CLARIBID GRANULES (Clarithromycin) is an antibiotic primarily used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. These include infections of the respiratory tract (like bronchitis and pneumonia), ear infections (such as acute otitis media), throat and sinus infections, and skin and soft tissue infections (like cellulitis and impetigo). It is also used in combination with other medicines to treat duodenal ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Additionally, it can be used for infections in individuals with reduced immunity, such as those with HIV, and as an alternative for people allergic to penicillin.

How does CLARIBID GRANULES work?

CLARIBID GRANULES contains Clarithromycin, which is a macrolide antibiotic. It works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria. By binding to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, it prevents the bacteria from producing essential proteins needed for their growth and reproduction, thereby stopping the infection from spreading and allowing the body's immune system to clear the bacteria.

What is the usual dosage?

The dosage of CLARIBID GRANULES depends on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient's age and body weight. It is typically given orally twice a day, usually in the morning and early evening. For children aged 6 months to 12 years, the recommended dose is often 7.5 mg/kg twice a day. It is crucial to follow the dose, timing, and method prescribed by the doctor.

What are the possible side effects?

Common side effects of CLARIBID GRANULES include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, bloating, indigestion, headaches, and difficulty sleeping (insomnia). Some patients may also experience changes in taste, including a metallic taste. More serious, but rare, side effects can include abnormal heart rhythms (QT prolongation), severe allergic reactions, and severe gastrointestinal infections. If severe or persistent side effects occur, medical attention should be sought.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

CLARIBID GRANULES is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first three months, as it may increase the risk of major birth defects. However, a doctor may prescribe it if the benefits outweigh the potential risks. For breastfeeding mothers, clarithromycin passes into breast milk at very low levels and is generally considered acceptable upon a doctor's recommendation. It is important to consult a doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Can it be taken with other medications?

CLARIBID GRANULES can interact with certain other medications, potentially leading to increased drug levels or serious side effects. For example, it should be avoided with certain cholesterol-lowering drugs (HMG CoA reductase inhibitors like lovastatin and simvastatin), ergot alkaloids, and some medications that can affect heart rhythm (leading to QT prolongation). Antacids and iron supplements should be taken at least 2 hours apart from CLARIBID GRANULES as they can lower its efficiency. Always inform your doctor about all other medicines, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, before starting CLARIBID GRANULES.

What precautions should be taken?

Before taking CLARIBID GRANULES, inform your doctor about any allergies to antibiotics (especially macrolides), kidney or liver problems, heart conditions (such as heart rhythm disorders), lupus, myasthenia gravis, or oesophagitis. It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning or developing antibiotic resistance. Long-term use may require monitoring of blood, kidney, and liver health. Avoid alcohol consumption as its interaction is unknown.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If a dose of CLARIBID GRANULES is missed, it should be taken as soon as you remember, provided it's not too close to the time for the next scheduled dose. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. If you remember up to 4 hours after a missed dose (for a twice-daily regimen), you can still give it, but if it's beyond that, skip it.

How should it be stored?

CLARIBID GRANULES should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, at temperatures between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC. It is important to keep it out of sight and reach of children. The reconstituted suspension should not be refrigerated. Shake the suspension well before each use.