Biaxin XL, or clarithromycin extended-release, is an oral antibiotic medication, chemically related to erythromycin. It is prescribed to treat certain bacterial infections. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says that Biaxin XL is not prescribed to treat viral infections such as the common cold. Specifically, it is not effective in treating viral antigens, only bacterial antigens. The drug treats sinusitis, strep throat, pneumonia, tonsillitis, middle ear infections and skin infections. Biaxin XL has potential side effects.
Unpleasant Taste
DrugLib.com says that the majority of adverse reactions reported during clinical trials were mild and transient, thus, this antibiotic is generally well-tolerated. During the clinical trials for Biaxin XL, the most frequently reported side effect was an unusual or unpleasant taste in the mouth. Seven percent of the research participants taking the drug experienced this benign adverse reaction. Drugs.com states that this antibiotic should be taken with food in its prescribed pill form, which means that it is not to be crushed or chewed because doing so will disturb the extended-release component. The unpleasant taste in the mouth ends shortly after taking a dose of the medicine, so it is not persistent. Eating something immediately afterward or having a mint may alleviate this effect.
Diarrhea
Drugs.com says that diarrhea is usually a mild and common side effect of this antibiotic. During clinical trials, 6 percent of participants taking the drug experienced mild to moderate diarrhea after taking a dose. Additional symptoms that may accompany the diarrhea include abdominal bloating, cramping and abdominal pain. This adverse reaction likely will resolve on its own as the body gets adjusted to the drug, but it is important to maintain a steady intake of fluids while experiencing diarrhea. Contact the prescribing physician if the diarrhea continues or worsens, since dehydration and electrolyte imbalance may result due to a severe loss of fluids.
Nausea
Stomach problems frequently occur when starting a new medication, especially antibiotics, and Biaxin XL is no exception. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration or FDA reports that 3 percent of clinical trial participants reported experiencing nausea while on Biaxin XL therapy. As previously stated, this medication should be taken with food to reduce stomach upset or queasiness. Speak with a pharmacist for suggestions if this symptom remains even when the antibiotic is taken with food. If this side effect continues or gets worse, contact the prescribing physician.
Member Comments