Maclar
Generic Name
Clarithromycin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| maclar 125 mg suspension | ৳ 395.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Maclar 125 mg Suspension contains Clarithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, skin and soft tissue, and otitis media.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
While 125 mg suspension is typically for pediatric use, adult dosage for clarithromycin is usually 250-500 mg twice daily depending on the infection.
Elderly
Similar to adults, but dose adjustment may be necessary in elderly patients with severe renal impairment.
Children
For Maclar 125 mg/5 ml suspension, the usual pediatric dose is 7.5 mg/kg twice daily (up to a maximum of 500 mg daily).
Renal_impairment
For patients with creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min, the dose should be halved or dosing interval doubled.
How to Take
Oral administration. Shake the bottle well before each use. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce gastrointestinal upset. Use the provided measuring spoon or cup for accurate dosing.
Mechanism of Action
Clarithromycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, thereby preventing their growth and reproduction.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical effects usually observed within hours of administration.
Excretion
Both clarithromycin and its active metabolite are excreted via the urinary (renal) and fecal routes.
Half life
The plasma elimination half-life of clarithromycin is approximately 3 to 7 hours, depending on the dose and formulation.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract following oral administration, with high bioavailability. Food may slightly delay absorption but typically enhances gastrointestinal tolerance.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver via the cytochrome P450 CYP3A4 enzyme system, forming the active metabolite 14-hydroxyclarithromycin.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to clarithromycin or any other macrolide antibiotic.
- Concomitant administration with ergot alkaloids (e.g., ergotamine, dihydroergotamine), colchicine (especially in patients with renal or hepatic impairment), or statins extensively metabolized by CYP3A4 (e.g., lovastatin, simvastatin) due to risk of rhabdomyolysis.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of INR is recommended.
Colchicine
Increased risk of colchicine toxicity, especially in patients with renal/hepatic impairment.
Oral Hypoglycemics/Insulin
Can potentiate effects, leading to hypoglycemia.
Digoxin, Theophylline, Carbamazepine
Clarithromycin can increase serum levels of these drugs, potentially leading to toxicity. Dose adjustments and monitoring may be necessary.
Statins (e.g., Simvastatin, Lovastatin)
Clarithromycin inhibits CYP3A4, increasing plasma concentrations of these statins, which can lead to increased risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.
Storage
Store the dry powder below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. After reconstitution, store the suspension at room temperature (below 30°C) or in a refrigerator (2-8°C) for up to 14 days, do not freeze.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptoms may include gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain) and rarely, neurological effects. Management should involve gastric lavage and general supportive measures. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis do not significantly affect plasma levels of clarithromycin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Clarithromycin is excreted into breast milk; therefore, it is generally advised to avoid breastfeeding or use with caution during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to clarithromycin or any other macrolide antibiotic.
- Concomitant administration with ergot alkaloids (e.g., ergotamine, dihydroergotamine), colchicine (especially in patients with renal or hepatic impairment), or statins extensively metabolized by CYP3A4 (e.g., lovastatin, simvastatin) due to risk of rhabdomyolysis.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of INR is recommended.
Colchicine
Increased risk of colchicine toxicity, especially in patients with renal/hepatic impairment.
Oral Hypoglycemics/Insulin
Can potentiate effects, leading to hypoglycemia.
Digoxin, Theophylline, Carbamazepine
Clarithromycin can increase serum levels of these drugs, potentially leading to toxicity. Dose adjustments and monitoring may be necessary.
Statins (e.g., Simvastatin, Lovastatin)
Clarithromycin inhibits CYP3A4, increasing plasma concentrations of these statins, which can lead to increased risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.
Storage
Store the dry powder below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. After reconstitution, store the suspension at room temperature (below 30°C) or in a refrigerator (2-8°C) for up to 14 days, do not freeze.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptoms may include gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain) and rarely, neurological effects. Management should involve gastric lavage and general supportive measures. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis do not significantly affect plasma levels of clarithromycin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Clarithromycin is excreted into breast milk; therefore, it is generally advised to avoid breastfeeding or use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years for unopened dry powder. After reconstitution, the suspension is stable for 14 days when stored properly.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Generally approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent (for Clarithromycin)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Clarithromycin has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety across various bacterial infections for which it is indicated.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (LFTs) if treatment is prolonged or in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment.
- Renal function tests (e.g., serum creatinine) in patients with severe renal impairment.
- INR (International Normalized Ratio) if co-administered with warfarin.
Doctor Notes
- Monitor liver and renal function, especially in patients with pre-existing impairment or during prolonged therapy.
- Be aware of potential drug interactions with CYP3A4 inhibitors/substrates, particularly statins, warfarin, and colchicine.
- Advise patients on the importance of completing the full course of therapy to prevent resistance.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the entire course of medication as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve.
- Shake the bottle well before each use and use the provided measuring device for accurate dosing.
- Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms.
Missed Dose Advice
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 resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Clarithromycin may cause dizziness or confusion in some patients. Patients should be cautioned about operating machinery or driving until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Stay well-hydrated during the course of treatment.
- Avoid alcohol consumption with certain infections or if it exacerbates gastrointestinal side effects.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in Maclar Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
