Klacid XL 500 mg 14 Tablets

Medication Name: Klacid XL 500 mg Tablets (14 tablets)
Active Ingredient: Clarithromycin 500 mg (extended-release)
Drug Class: Macrolide antibiotic

Indications:

Klacid XL 500 mg is used for moderate to severe bacterial infections, including:

• Upper and lower respiratory tract infections (sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia)

• Skin and soft tissue infections

• Helicobacter pylori infection (as part of combination therapy for gastric ulcers)

Mechanism of Action:

• Clarithromycin binds to the 50S subunit of bacterial ribosomes, blocking protein synthesis.

• This prevents bacterial growth and replication (bacteriostatic action).

• The XL (extended-release) formulation allows once-daily dosing for sustained antibiotic levels.

Dosage and Administration:

• Typical adult dose: 500 mg once daily for 5–14 days.

• For severe infections, the dose may be 1,000 mg once daily (two 500 mg XL tablets).

• Take the tablet with food and swallow whole—do not break, crush, or chew.

• Complete the entire prescribed course, even if symptoms improve early.

Side Effects:

• Common: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain

• Metallic or bitter taste

• Headache, dizziness, or fatigue

• Rare: rash, liver enzyme elevation, QT prolongation (especially in patients with cardiac conditions)

Warnings and Precautions:

• Do not use if allergic to macrolides (e.g., erythromycin, azithromycin).

• Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment.

• Avoid combining with:

  • Statins (simvastatin, lovastatin) → risk of muscle toxicity

  • Warfarin → increased bleeding risk

  • Carbamazepine, theophylline, digoxin, ergot alkaloids → increased drug levels

• May cause QT prolongation; avoid in patients with heart rhythm disorders.

Storage:

Store at room temperature (below 25°C), away from moisture and direct sunlight.