Clarithromycin
Brand: Biaxin (US/EU) / Claribid (IN) / Claric (BD)
Antibiotic
Macrolide
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-life | 5 hours |
| Tmax | 2 h |
| Bioavailability | 55 % (approx) |
| Protein Binding | 70 % |
| Volume of Distribution | 0.25 L/kg (approx) |
| Clearance Route | hepatic |
| Active Metabolites | yes |
| Notes | Active metabolite 14-hydroxy clarithromycin contributes activity; major CYP3A4 interactions. |
⚠️ Safety & Warnings
Severity: Severe
Adverse Effects:
GI upset, taste disturbance, QT prolongation
Contraindications:
History of torsades de pointes / severe hepatic failure
Precautions:
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitor → interacts with many cardio + psych meds; avoid co-administration with QT-prolonging drugs