Should clarithromycin tablets be taken before or after meals?

Generally, clarithromycin tablets are recommended to be taken after meals. It is advisable to follow the instructions provided by a healthcare professional. Specific analysis is as follows:

Clarithromycin tablets belong to the macrolide class of antibiotics. Common formulations include tablets, capsules, granules, and dry suspensions. Clarithromycin is primarily used to treat various infections caused by susceptible pathogenic bacteria. Although food does not affect the pharmacokinetics or therapeutic efficacy of clarithromycin, the medication can significantly irritate the stomach. It may stimulate the gastrointestinal mucosa, leading to adverse gastrointestinal reactions such as nausea and vomiting. Taking clarithromycin after meals helps reduce this irritation; therefore, it is recommended to take the medication post-meal.

It should be noted that clarithromycin is contraindicated in pregnant women, breastfeeding women, patients with known hypersensitivity to macrolide antibiotics or any excipients in the formulation, patients with hypokalemia, and those with severe hepatic impairment accompanied by renal dysfunction. Clarithromycin should only be used under the guidance of a physician. Self-medication should be avoided to prevent potential adverse effects.