Generic Biaxin (clarithromycin) is a widely used antibiotic for a variety of bacterial infections. It is also available in combination with ulcer medications to treat certain types of stomach ulcers.
Clarithromycin belongs to the class of drugs called macrolide antibiotics, which is advised to treat as well as prevent certain bacterial infections. The drug works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
Generic Biaxin treats only infections suspected to be caused by bacteria. Please note that it does not treat viral infections such as the common cold and flu.
Uses and Indications of Generic Biaxin
The drug is used or indicated in adults for the treatment of mild-to-moderate bacterial infections such as:
- Acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis
- Acute maxillary sinusitis
- Community-acquired pneumonia
- Pharyngitis
- Tonsillitis
- Uncomplicated skin or skin structure infections
- Acute otitis media (middle ear infection)
The drug is also used as a prophylaxis for disseminated mycobacterial infections.
Dosage
The dosage of Generic Biaxin depends on the type and severity of the bacterial infection, age, patients’ susceptibility, and medical history. For acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, doctors suggest clarithromycin 250 mg to 500 mg for 7 days. For acute maxillary sinusitis, a dosage of 500 mg is advised for 14 days.
Typically, Generic Biaxin is taken with or without food every 8 (thrice a day) to 12 hours (twice a day) for 7 to 14 days. Doctors take your medical history into consideration before prescribing Generic Biaxin because dosage precautions are taken in patients with kidney or liver impairment.
Cost
Generic Biaxin is much cheaper than brand its branded version. The lowest possible price of generic clarithromycin 500 mg is $33 for 28 tablets, 85% cheaper than the branded version that costs $155 for the same number of tablets according to GoodRx.
Brand Biaxin was developed by US-based pharma company Abbott Laboratories, but it was most recently marketed by spin-out AbbVie. The drug is now off-patent, meaning some companies make generic copies of clarithromycin since 2006. The FDA approved the pill version of the drug in October 2000.
Side Effects
Generic Biaxin may or may not cause side effects, but some of the common ones include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and a change in taste. If any of these side effects worsen or persist, see your prescribing doctor right away. Get immediate medical attention if you experience hearing loss, mental or mood changes, severe muscle weakness, blurry vision, slurred speech, persistent nausea or vomiting, severe abdominal pain, urinary changes, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
