Biaxin XL (clarithromycin) is an extended release antibiotic medication used to treat bacterial infections such as sinusitis and bronchitis. An extended release formula releases medication slowly throughout the course of the day. Biaxin XL should be taken with food, and should never be crushed or chewed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may decrease the drug's effectiveness and increase the likelihood that drug-resistant bacteria will develop, reports PDRHealth.com. There are some side effects of Biaxin XL that users should be aware of.
Nausea and Diarrhea
According to Drugs.com, nausea and diarrhea are gastrointestinal side effects of taking Biaxin XL. Taking this medication with food is recommended to reduce gastrointestinal distress. The nausea and diarrhea may subside after your body has a chance to adjust to Biaxin XL. Consider eating a bland diet, avoiding spicy, greasy or fatty foods. To help combat diarrhea, eat smaller meals more frequently, and choose foods such as bananas, rice and toast to help add bulk to your stool. In severe cases, prolonged diarrhea may cause dehydration and an electrolyte imbalance. Be sure to drink at least six to 10 glasses of water each day. Contact your health care provider if nausea and diarrhea become severe.
Headache and Abnormal Taste
You may develop a headache while taking Biaxin XL. This side effect may diminish after a couple of days as your body gets used to the medication. If severe, ask your physician if you may treat your headache with an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If taking ibuprofen, be sure to take it with food so that additional gastrointestinal distress does not occur. Some patients have reported an abnormal taste in their mouth while taking Biaxin XL. This effect should be temporary, with normal taste sensation returning once you have completed your course of treatment.
Allergic Reaction
You may develop an allergic reaction to Biaxin XL in rare cases. Do not take Biaxin XL if you have had an allergic reaction to it in the past, or if you are allergic to erythromycin or azithromycin. Signs of an allergic reaction include a severe rash with hives that may or may not itch, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the tongue or throat. If you think you may be experiencing an allergic reaction to Biaxin XL, seek emergency medical attention. If allergic to this drug, be sure to advise your primary care physician, as well as other physicians involved in your health care, that you are allergic to Biaxin.
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