Biaxin XL Ingredients

Biaxin XL is a brand-name prescription medication that is manufactured by Abbott Pharmaceuticals. The medicinal ingredient in Biaxin XL is clarithromycin, which was approved by the FDA in 1991 as an antibiotic to treat skin and respiratory infections, according to Drugs.com. RxList.com cites that Biaxin XL is marketed as an oval, light yellow, extended release tablet containing 500 mg of clarithromycin. Biaxin XL also contains non-medicinal ingredients.

Clarithromycin

Clarithromycin is classified as a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic, which refers to a particular molecular shape that is most effective at killing gram-positive bacteria. Clarythromycin is used to treat pharyngitis, tonsillitis, acute sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, lyme disease and skin infections. DailyMed notes that clarithromycin is active against a variety of different bacteria, and when used with other antibiotics, is an effective treatment for stomach ulcers caused by Helicobactor pylori. PubMed cites a 1995 study that concluded the combined therapy of metronidazole, omeprazole and clarithromycin was very effective at eliminating H. pylori bacteria from the stomach.

As with any extended release tablet or capsule, Biaxin XL is not meant to be chewed, crushed or broken up. Rather, Biaxin XL is meant to be swallowed whole and with food, as the formulation is meant to release the clarithromycin slowly over eight to 12 hours.

Binders and Fillers in Biaxin XL

According to Mosby's Drug Consult, Biaxin XL tablets contain three inactive ingredients that can be classified as binders or fillers, and they are: cellulosic polymers, propylene glycol and lactose monohydrate. Binders bind the ingredients of pharmaceutical tablets together once they are activated by the intense pressures of the compounding process. Binders are typically cellulose products. Lactose monohydrate is derived from whey protein and acts as a filler, which expands the size of tablets making them more convenient to handle, but not too big to swallow. Lactose monohydrate also gives Biaxin XL tablets a smooth and powdery texture.

Lubricants in Biaxin XL

Magnesium stearate and talc are other non-medicinal ingredients found within Biaxin XL tablets, and both act as lubricants. Lubricants assist with the flow of ingredients through the production line and keep them from clinging to the manufacturing equipment.