Kalixocin (Clarithromycin)

Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information

Prescription Required

Quick Facts

Generic Name
clarithromycin
Drug Class
macrolide antibiotic
Used For
treating bacterial infections and preventing specific infections associated with HIV
How Taken
oral tablet, typically twice a day

What Is Kalixocin Used For?

Kalixocin is an antibiotic medication that helps treat various bacterial infections. It is effective against respiratory tract infections, ear infections, skin infections, and peptic ulcers. Additionally, it is used to prevent certain bacterial infections in individuals with HIV.

Primary Uses

Kalixocin is primarily used for respiratory tract infections, ear infections, skin infections, and peptic ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori.

How It Works

Kalixocin works by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause infections. It is not effective against viral infections such as colds or flu.

Good to know: Kalixocin is not addictive.

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How to Take Kalixocin

It is important to take Kalixocin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow their instructions carefully for the best results.

Dosage Instructions

The usual adult dose for respiratory and skin infections is one 250 mg tablet twice daily. For more severe infections, the dose may be increased to two 250 mg tablets twice daily. Always follow your doctor's guidance regarding dosage.

What If You Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.

Important: Never double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Available Tablet Strengths

250mg
250mg Tablet Yellow, Ovaloid

Side Effects

Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.

Common Side Effects

These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:

  • stomach cramps
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • diarrhoea
  • oral thrush
  • vaginal thrush
  • change in taste sensation
  • headache
  • asthma
  • shortness of breath
  • muscle weakness
  • pain or spasms
  • conjunctivitis
  • chills
  • fatigue
  • belching
  • stomach bloating
  • flatulence

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • yellowing of the eyes or skin
  • feeling unwell with poor appetite
  • hearing disturbances
  • chest pain
  • dizziness
  • confusion
  • hallucinations
  • convulsions
  • fainting
  • irregular heartbeat
  • skin rash
  • itching
  • hives
  • severe diarrhoea
  • severe upper stomach pain with nausea and vomiting

Important Warnings

Before taking Kalixocin, be aware of certain warnings and contraindications.

Who Should Not Take Kalixocin

Do not take Kalixocin if you are allergic to clarithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics, have severe liver problems, poor kidney function, an irregular heartbeat, or a history of long QT syndrome.

Medical Conditions to Discuss

Discuss with your doctor if you have heart problems, liver issues, poor kidney function, myasthenia gravis, or any electrolyte imbalances.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding, to understand the risks and benefits of taking Kalixocin.

Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.

Drug Interactions

Kalixocin may interact with several medications, affecting how it works or how other drugs work.

Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may interact with Kalixocin, consult your doctor.

  • astemizole
  • terfenadine
  • cisapride
  • colchicine
  • domperidone
  • ergotamine
  • ivabradine
  • lomitapide
  • lovastatin
  • simvastatin
  • midazolam
  • pimozide
  • ticagrelor
  • ranolazine
  • aminoglycosides
  • calcium channel blockers
  • carbamazepine
  • phenytoin
  • phenobarbital
  • sodium valproate
  • ciclosporin
  • tacrolimus
  • cilostazol
  • digoxin
  • quinidine
  • disopyramide
  • fluconazole
  • itraconazole
  • fluoxetine
  • St John's Wort
  • ibrutinib
  • insulin
  • hydroxychloroquine
  • corticosteroids
  • omeprazole
  • quetiapine
  • rifabutin
  • rifapentine
  • rifampicin
  • sildenafil
  • tadalafil
  • vardenafil
  • statins
  • theophylline
  • tolterodine
  • triazolam
  • alprazolam
  • vinblastine
  • warfarin

Alcohol & Driving

Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while taking Kalixocin.

Alcohol

Consult your doctor about alcohol consumption while on Kalixocin.

Driving and Operating Machinery

Exercise caution when driving or using machinery until you know how Kalixocin affects you.

Storage

Store Kalixocin tablets in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose Information

If you suspect an overdose of Kalixocin, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kalixocin typically starts to work within a few days, but it's important to complete the full course of treatment.

You can take Kalixocin with or without food, but follow your doctor's instructions.

No, Kalixocin is not considered addictive.

Do not stop taking Kalixocin without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to incomplete treatment of your infection.

Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while taking Kalixocin.

Weight gain is not a commonly reported side effect of Kalixocin.

Elderly patients should use Kalixocin with caution, especially those with dementia.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose.

Important Disclaimer

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

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