Factors that affect Biaxin® dosage include the type of infection being treated, weight of the patient, the bacterial organism that caused the infection, and how severe the infection is. Biaxin® is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections and can be taken in tablet form or in oral suspension form. The usual Biaxin® dosage is twice daily for the regular tablets and the oral suspension, and once a day when the extended-release type is taken.
Although a regular Biaxin® dosage is usually unaffected by food intake, those taking the extended-release dosage should take it with food because the antibiotic may not work as effectively when taken on an empty stomach. In addition, a Biaxin® dosage can be taken any time, however, it should be taken at approximately the same time every day. Also, the entire prescription must be completed because Biaxin® may not be effective if it is stopped too soon.
Even at a normal Biaxin® dosage, side effects can occur. These side effects include an abnormal or unpleasant taste in the mouth, indigestion, heartburn, vomiting, and diarrhea. In addition, headaches and abdominal pain can occur. More serious side effects of this antibiotic can include jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, light-colored stool, and dark-colored urine. These may be signs of liver damage and must be reported to the physician.
Certain people are allergic to antibiotics and even when the lowest Biaxin® dosage is given, severe allergic reactions can occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Biaxin® include hives, rash, and itching. Severe allergic reaction symptoms include swelling of the lips, mouth and throat. Patients may also have difficulty breathing, wheezing, and chest pain or pressure. These symptoms constitute a medical emergency and if treatment is not rapidly employed, the prognosis may be poor.
Additional side effects to Biaxin® include thrush, which is an oral yeast infection, loss of appetite, and tongue discoloration. Also, a spinning sensation known a vertigo, hearing loss, and canker sores can occur. When side effects become intolerable, the doctor should be notified so he can suggest alternative treatments. Other antibiotics can be just as effective and may prove to be more tolerable.
Biaxin® is the brand name for clarithromycin and is used to treat bacterial pneumonia, bacterial infections of the sinuses, ears, throat, and skin, and bronchitis. Since this medication works by stopping bacterial growth, it is not effective in treating viral infections such as colds, influenza, or other viruses. The physician can recommend certain medical tests to determine if an infection is bacterial or viral in nature before recommended an antibiotic.