Clarithromycin: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic for chest infections and part of ulcer (H. pylori) treatment. It belongs to the Antibiotic (other) group. These antibiotics from various families treat specific bacterial infections; they do not work against viruses.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Antibiotic (other)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Chest infections and pneumonia
Throat, sinus and ear infections
Skin infections
Stomach ulcers caused by H. pylori (with other medicines)

Common brand names

India: Claribid, Crixan, Synclar
Worldwide: Biaxin

Common side effects

Altered or metallic taste
Nausea, diarrhoea or tummy pain
Headache
Trouble sleeping

Before taking it — precautions

Many medicines interact (some statins, blood thinners, heart medicines) — share your full list
Tell your doctor about heart-rhythm problems, liver or kidney disease
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

When to see a doctor urgently

Fainting, palpitations or irregular heartbeat (urgent)
Yellow eyes or skin, dark urine
Severe or bloody diarrhoea, or swelling of the face (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of clarithromycin depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Why does clarithromycin cause a metallic taste?

Taste change is a common side effect and goes away after the course ends.

Can I take clarithromycin with a statin?

Some statins, like simvastatin, must be paused because clarithromycin raises their levels. Tell your doctor.

Is clarithromycin used for stomach ulcers?

Yes — combined with other medicines to clear H. pylori, a bacterium that causes ulcers.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.