Drug Class: Macrolide Antibiotic | Form: Film-Coated Oral Tablet | Prescription Status: Prescription Only (Rx) — DRAP Registered
What is Klaracid 500mg Tablet?
Klaracid 500mg Tablet contains Clarithromycin 500mg — a stronger-dose macrolide antibiotic used to treat more serious or difficult-to-treat bacterial infections in adults and children over 12 years. It works by entering bacterial cells and blocking the production of proteins that bacteria need to survive and multiply.
Without these proteins, bacteria stop growing and the body's immune system clears the infection. Klaracid 500mg is prescribed for chest, sinus, and skin infections, as well as stomach ulcers caused by H. pylori bacteria.
It must only be taken on a doctor's prescription and for the full number of days advised — stopping early can cause the infection to return and may lead to antibiotic resistance.
What is Klaracid 500mg Used For?
- Community-acquired pneumonia — bacterial lung infection requiring stronger antibiotic coverage (نمونیا)
- Acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis — worsening of long-term chest condition caused by bacteria (برونکائٹس)
- Acute sinusitis — bacterial sinus infection causing facial pain and blocked nose (سائنس کا انفیکشن)
- Skin and soft tissue infections — folliculitis, cellulitis, and erysipelas (جلد کا انفیکشن)
- H. pylori eradication — used alongside other medicines to treat stomach ulcers caused by H. pylori bacteria (معدے کا السر)
- MAC infections — prevention and treatment of Mycobacterium avium complex infections, particularly in HIV-positive patients
How Does Klaracid 500mg Work?
Clarithromycin binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit inside bacterial cells — this is the part of the bacteria responsible for producing proteins essential for its growth and survival. By blocking this process, the bacteria cannot replicate, the infection is contained, and the body clears remaining bacteria naturally.
The 500mg dose provides a higher concentration of clarithromycin in the body, making it more suitable for serious respiratory infections and cases where the lower 250mg dose may not be sufficient.
Dosage and Administration
⚠️ Always take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Never increase the dose on your own. Complete the full course.
| Indication | Usual Adult Dose | Frequency | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pneumonia | 1 tablet (500mg) | Twice daily | 7–14 days |
| Chronic bronchitis (acute worsening) | 1 tablet (500mg) | Twice daily | 7–14 days |
| Sinusitis | 1 tablet (500mg) | Twice daily | 7–14 days |
| Skin infections | 1 tablet (500mg) | Twice daily | 7–14 days |
| H. pylori eradication | 1 tablet (500mg) | Twice daily (with other medicines) | 7 days |
| MAC infections | 1 tablet (500mg) | Twice daily | As directed by doctor |
- Can be taken with or without food — take with food if stomach upset occurs
- Swallow whole with a full glass of water — do not crush or chew
- Take at evenly spaced times each day (e.g., morning and evening)
- Never skip doses and never stop early, even if you feel better
Active Ingredient
| Ingredient | Strength per Tablet |
|---|---|
| Clarithromycin | 500mg |
Who Should NOT Take Klaracid 500mg?
Do not take this medicine if you:
- Are allergic to clarithromycin, erythromycin, or any other macrolide antibiotic
- Have previously experienced jaundice or liver problems caused by clarithromycin
- Have a known heart rhythm problem (QT prolongation) or low blood potassium or magnesium
- Are taking medicines that have serious interactions with clarithromycin (see Drug Interactions below)
Always inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart conditions, or are pregnant or breastfeeding before starting Klaracid 500mg.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea, stomach pain, diarrhoea, or vomiting — take with food to reduce discomfort
- Headache or dizziness
- Altered or metallic taste in the mouth — temporary and not harmful
- Mild skin rash or itching
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
Serious Side Effects — Stop Taking and Seek Emergency Medical Help Immediately:
- Severe allergic reaction — sudden widespread rash, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing (یہ طبی ہنگامی صورتحال ہے)
- Liver damage — yellowing of skin or eyes (یرقان / jaundice), dark urine, or severe stomach pain
- Severe or bloody diarrhoea — may indicate a serious gut infection called C. difficile colitis
- Irregular or fast heartbeat, chest pain — clarithromycin can rarely affect heart rhythm
- Severe skin blistering or peeling — rare but life-threatening; stop immediately and go to hospital
Drug Interactions
| Medicine / Substance | Possible Interaction |
|---|---|
| Statins (e.g., Simvastatin, Lovastatin) | High risk of severe muscle damage — doctor will usually pause your statin during treatment |
| Blood thinners (e.g., Warfarin) | Clarithromycin increases Warfarin's effect — increases risk of bleeding; INR monitoring required |
| Digoxin (heart medicine) | Clarithromycin raises Digoxin blood levels — risk of Digoxin toxicity |
| Colchicine (gout medicine) | Potentially life-threatening toxicity — this combination must be avoided |
| Antiepileptics (e.g., Carbamazepine, Phenytoin) | Clarithromycin significantly raises their blood levels — risk of toxicity |
| Antifungals (e.g., Itraconazole, Fluconazole) | Increases clarithromycin levels and raises risk of heart rhythm problems |
| Antacids (aluminium or magnesium based) | Reduces clarithromycin absorption — take Klaracid at least 2 hours apart from antacids |
| Rifampicin (TB medicine) | Significantly reduces clarithromycin effectiveness — combination generally avoided |
Storage Instructions
- Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place
- Protect from direct sunlight and moisture
- Keep in original blister packaging until use
- Keep out of reach of children (بچوں کی پہنچ سے دور رکھیں)
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack or carton
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the difference between Klaracid 250mg and Klaracid 500mg?
Both contain the same antibiotic — clarithromycin. The 500mg dose is prescribed for more serious infections like pneumonia or when a stronger effect is needed, while 250mg is typically used for milder infections.
Q: Can I stop taking Klaracid 500mg once I feel better?
No — always complete the full course. Stopping early allows surviving bacteria to become resistant, which can make future infections much harder to treat.
Q: Can Klaracid 500mg be taken on an empty stomach?
Yes, it can be taken with or without food. If it causes nausea or stomach discomfort, take it with a meal or immediately after eating.
Q: Is Klaracid 500mg safe during pregnancy?
Klaracid is generally avoided during pregnancy unless there is no safer alternative available. Always consult your doctor before taking any antibiotic if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Q: Why do I have a strange taste in my mouth after taking Klaracid?
An altered or metallic taste is a known and harmless side effect of clarithromycin. It is temporary and will go away once the course is complete.
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This description is provided for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking this medicine. Never self-medicate with antibiotics — antibiotic resistance is a serious public health risk.
DRAP Registered | Prescription Required (Rx) | Complete the full prescribed course — never stop early — inform your doctor of all medicines you are currently taking