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Biaxin XL (Clarithromycin) Shopper Approved

Prescription Prescription Required FormationFormulation: ER Tablet

Biaxin XL

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Prescription Prescription Required FormationFormulation: ER Tablet

Clarithromycin

(Generic Alternative)

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Biaxin XL contains the active ingredient clarithromycin. It is an extended-release prescription antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial respiratory infections in adults.

Acute Bacterial Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis

Biaxin XL may be used to treat a bacterial worsening of chronic bronchitis.

Chronic bronchitis causes ongoing inflammation and mucus production in the airways. When certain bacteria cause the condition to suddenly become worse, symptoms may include:

  • Increased coughing
  • More mucus or a change in mucus color
  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing
  • Chest discomfort

Biaxin XL helps treat the bacterial infection causing the worsening symptoms.

Acute Maxillary Sinusitis

Biaxin XL may also be used to treat acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis.

This is a bacterial infection affecting the sinus cavities around the cheeks.

Symptoms may include:

  • Facial pain or pressure
  • Nasal congestion
  • Thick nasal discharge
  • Headache
  • Reduced sense of smell

Biaxin XL is only effective when the infection is caused by bacteria that are susceptible to clarithromycin.

Community-Acquired Pneumonia

Biaxin XL is also indicated for certain cases of community-acquired pneumonia in adults.

Community-acquired pneumonia is a lung infection that develops outside of a hospital or other healthcare facility.

Symptoms may include:

Cough

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Tiredness

Biaxin XL may be used when the pneumonia is caused by susceptible bacteria, including certain common and atypical bacteria.

How Biaxin XL Works

Biaxin XL belongs to a class of antibiotics called macrolides.

Clarithromycin works by attaching to bacterial ribosomes, which are structures bacteria use to make proteins.

By blocking bacterial protein production, Biaxin XL slows or stops the bacteria from growing. This allows the body’s immune system to help clear the infection.

Extended-Release Formulation

Biaxin XL is an extended-release tablet, which means clarithromycin is released gradually over time.

Because of this, Biaxin XL has different dosing and administration instructions from immediate-release Biaxin tablets.

The formulations should not automatically be substituted for one another without guidance from a healthcare provider.

Biaxin XL Does Not Treat All Clarithromycin Infections

Biaxin XL is specifically indicated in adults for:

  • Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis
  • Acute maxillary sinusitis
  • Community-acquired pneumonia

Other clarithromycin formulations may be used for additional infections, but those uses should not automatically be applied to Biaxin XL. In particular, treatment of H. pylori and certain skin infections are associated with other clarithromycin formulations rather than Biaxin XL.

Antibiotics Do Not Treat Viral Infections

Biaxin XL only works against susceptible bacteria.

It does not treat viral illnesses such as the common cold or influenza.

Using antibiotics when they are not needed can contribute to antibiotic resistance, which can make bacterial infections more difficult to treat in the future.

Biaxin XL is an extended-release tablet taken by mouth once daily with food.

Taking it with food helps your body absorb the medication properly. Try to take Biaxin XL at about the same time each day.

Swallow the Tablet Whole

Swallow Biaxin XL tablets whole.

Do not:

Crush the tablets

  • Chew them
  • Break or split them

Damaging the tablet can interfere with the extended-release system and cause the medication to be released too quickly.

Recommended Dose

For adults with one of the respiratory infections Biaxin XL is approved to treat:

Usual dose: 1,000 mg once daily, taken as two 500 mg extended-release tablets.

The length of treatment depends on the infection being treated.

Acute Bacterial Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis

Dose: 1,000 mg once daily.

Treatment duration: Usually 7 days.

Community-Acquired Pneumonia

Dose: 1,000 mg once daily.

Treatment duration: Usually 7 days.

Acute Maxillary Sinusitis

Dose: 1,000 mg once daily.

Treatment duration: Usually 14 days.

Take Biaxin XL for the Full Course

Continue taking Biaxin XL for the full length of time prescribed, even if you start feeling better after a few days.

Stopping an antibiotic too early may allow some bacteria to survive, which can cause the infection to return and may contribute to antibiotic resistance.

What to Do If You Miss a Dose

If you miss a dose of Biaxin XL, take it as soon as you remember.

If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra Biaxin XL to make up for a missed dose.

Kidney Problems

People with significant kidney impairment may need a lower dose or a different dosing schedule.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have kidney disease before starting Biaxin XL.

Follow Your Healthcare Provider’s Instructions

Take Biaxin XL exactly as prescribed.

Do not take a larger dose, use it more often, or continue it longer than recommended.

Tell your healthcare provider if your infection does not improve, becomes worse, or returns after treatment.

Common Side Effects of Biaxin XL (Clarithromycin):

  • Change in taste
  • Diarrhea
  • Gas
  • Headache
  • Heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth
  • Vomiting

Serious Side Effects of Biaxin XL (Clarithromycin):

  • Clay-colored stool
  • Confusion
  • Dark urine
  • Diarrhea containing blood
  • Fast or pounding heartbeats
  • Feeling tired
  • Fluttering in your chest
  • Little or no urine
  • Loss of appetite
  • Severe stomach pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Spinning sensation
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Swelling in your feet or ankles
  • Tiredness
  • Upper stomach pain
  • Yellowing of eyes and skin (jaundice)

Biaxin XL (Clarithromycin) is available in the following forms and strength:

Biaxin XL: ER Tablet

  • 500 mg

Clarithromycin: ER Tablet

  • 500 mg

Serious Allergic Reactions

Biaxin XL can rarely cause a serious allergic reaction.

Seek immediate medical attention if you develop:

  • Hives
  • Severe rash
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing

Clarithromycin should be stopped and evaluated promptly if a serious allergic reaction occurs.

Severe Diarrhea and C. difficile Infection

Biaxin XL can cause diarrhea.

In some cases, antibiotic treatment can allow an overgrowth of Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) bacteria in the colon. This may cause severe diarrhea and inflammation of the colon.

Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you develop:

  • Frequent watery diarrhea
  • Bloody or mucus-containing stools
  • Severe abdominal pain or cramping
  • Fever
  • Signs of dehydration
  • C. difficile infection can occur during treatment or even after the antibiotic has been stopped.

Liver Problems

Biaxin XL can cause liver injury, including rare cases of serious or life-threatening liver failure.

Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you develop:

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • Dark urine
  • Pale stools
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Unusual tiredness

Treatment may need to be stopped if signs of hepatitis or liver injury develop.

Heart Rhythm Problems

Biaxin XL can affect the electrical activity of the heart and may cause QT prolongation.

This can lead to a serious abnormal heart rhythm called torsades de pointes in susceptible patients.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have:

  • A history of QT prolongation
  • An abnormal heart rhythm
  • A very slow heartbeat
  • Low potassium or magnesium levels
  • Other medications that affect heart rhythm

Seek medical attention if you develop fainting, severe dizziness, or a fast or irregular heartbeat.

Low Potassium or Magnesium

Biaxin XL is not typically described as directly causing low potassium.

However, having low potassium or low magnesium before or during treatment can increase the risk of dangerous heart rhythm problems.

Your healthcare provider may monitor electrolyte levels if you have other medical conditions or take medications that can lower potassium or magnesium.

Drug Interactions

Biaxin XL can interact with many medications.

Some interactions can cause dangerously high medication levels or increase the risk of serious side effects.

Important interactions may occur with certain:

  • Cholesterol-lowering medications
  • Blood thinners
  • Heart and blood pressure medications
  • Colchicine
  • Sedatives
  • Seizure medications
  • Other medications that affect heart rhythm

Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you use.

Some combinations should be avoided completely.

Low Blood Sugar

Clarithromycin can increase the risk of hypoglycemia, especially when used with certain diabetes medications.

Watch for symptoms such as:

  • Shaking
  • Sweating
  • Hunger
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Confusion

If you have diabetes, your healthcare provider may recommend closer blood sugar monitoring during treatment.

Nervous System Effects

Some people may experience nervous system side effects while taking Biaxin XL, including:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Confusion
  • Changes in taste

Use caution with driving or other activities that require full alertness if you feel dizzy or confused.

Hearing Changes

Hearing loss or ringing in the ears has been reported in some people taking clarithromycin.

The risk may be greater if you already have hearing problems or take other medications that can affect hearing.

Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:

  • Sudden hearing loss
  • Reduced hearing
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Other unusual hearing changes

Myasthenia Gravis

Clarithromycin may worsen symptoms of myasthenia gravis.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have this condition before taking Biaxin XL.

Contact your healthcare provider if you develop increased muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, or breathing problems.

Heart Disease

Tell your healthcare provider if you have coronary artery disease or other significant heart disease.

Some studies have found a possible increased risk of death in people with coronary artery disease after clarithromycin treatment, so your healthcare provider will consider the benefits and risks before prescribing it.

Can Biaxin XL be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Biaxin XL should only be used during pregnancy when the expected benefits outweigh the possible risks. Your healthcare provider will decide whether clarithromycin is appropriate based on the infection being treated and your individual health needs. Clarithromycin can pass into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, your healthcare provider will consider the benefits of treatment and any possible effects on the nursing infant.

Can Biaxin XL be taken with food?

Yes. Biaxin XL should be taken with food. Taking the extended-release tablet with a meal helps your body absorb the medication properly. Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or split it.

How should I store Biaxin XL?

Store Biaxin XL at room temperature, away from excess heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the tablets in their original container and out of reach of children and pets. Avoid storing the medication in damp areas such as the bathroom.

Can I stop taking Biaxin XL once I start feeling better?

No. Continue taking Biaxin XL for the full length of time prescribed, even if your symptoms improve before you finish the medication. Stopping an antibiotic too early may allow some bacteria to survive, which can cause the infection to return and may contribute to antibiotic resistance. If you are having side effects or want to stop treatment early, speak with your healthcare provider first.

Can Biaxin XL be crushed or chewed?

No. Biaxin XL is an extended-release tablet and should be swallowed whole. Do not crush, chew, break, or split the tablet because this can interfere with the extended-release system and cause the medication to be released too quickly. If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet, speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about your options.

REVIEWS

Additional Information Book
Generic name:

Clarithromycin

Formulation:

ER Tablet, Tablet

Strength(s):

500mg

Quantities Available:

60, 84

Why customers love Online Pharmacies Canada

Our online Canadian Pharmacy is known for high standards of quality, safety, and efficiency when it comes to medications.

Our pharmacy offers lower prices on prescription drugs compared to traditional pharmacies.

How to Order

How much Biaxin XL can I order at once from a Canadian pharmacy?

When ordering Biaxin XL (clarithromycin) from a Canadian pharmacy, you can typically purchase up to a 90-day supply at one time, which is common for prescription medications to ensure adequate management of conditions without frequent refills.

Here’s what you need to know:

Dosage and Quantity: Biaxin XL is commonly prescribed in dosages of 500 mg, taken once daily. For a 90-day supply, this means you would order 90 tablets (90 days x 1 tablet per day).

Do you sell clarithromycin?

Yes, we sell clarithromycin on our website. You can enjoy low prices when you order through us. To purchase clarithromycin, you will need a valid prescription from your healthcare provider. We require this prescription to dispense the medication safely and appropriately. You can submit your prescription by mailing it to us, faxing it, or uploading it through your online account.

Do you offer shipping of Biaxin XL (clarithromycin) to the United States?

Yes, we ship Biaxin XL (clarithromycin) to both the United States and Puerto Rico.

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Online Pharmacies Canada has provided information from third parties intended to increase awareness and does not contain all the information about Biaxin XL (Clarithromycin). Talk to your doctor or other qualified medical practitioners for medical attention or advice, or if you have any concerns about Biaxin XL (Clarithromycin).