Clarithromycin in the UK: What You Need to Know

Clarithromycin is a prescription antibiotic that fights a range of bacterial infections. In the UK it’s often used for chest infections, sinus problems, skin infections, and certain stomach bacteria. It belongs to the macrolide family, which means it stops bacteria from making proteins they need to grow.

How to Take Clarithromycin Correctly

Doctors usually prescribe clarithromycin as a tablet or oral suspension. The typical adult dose for most infections is 250 mg twice a day, taken about 12 hours apart. For more serious infections the dose may go up to 500 mg twice daily. Always follow the exact schedule your doctor gives you – missing doses can let the infection come back.

Take the medicine with a full glass of water. You can take it with food if it upsets your stomach, but some doctors recommend taking it on an empty stomach for the best absorption. Finish the whole course, even if you start feeling better before it’s done. Stopping early can cause the infection to linger and may lead to resistance.

Side Effects and When to Call a Doctor

Most people tolerate clarithromycin well. The most common side effects are mild stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, and a slight taste change. If you notice a rash, itching, or swelling, stop the medicine and seek medical help right away – these could be signs of an allergic reaction.

Rare but serious side effects include irregular heartbeat, severe diarrhea (which could be C. difficile infection), and liver problems. Call your doctor if you have chest pain, fainting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or persistent diarrhea that lasts more than a few days.

Clarithromycin can interact with other medicines such as certain cholesterol drugs, blood thinners, and some anti‑epileptic medications. Make a list of every prescription, over‑the‑counter drug, and supplement you take, and share it with your doctor or pharmacist before starting clarithromycin.

When buying clarithromycin in the UK, you’ll need a valid prescription from a GP or a specialist. Online pharmacies are allowed to dispense it, but only if they are registered with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Look for the MHRA license number on the website, and avoid any site that offers the drug without a prescription.

Price can vary between pharmacies. The NHS may cover part of the cost if you have a prescription charge exemption, otherwise you’ll pay the standard prescription fee. Some private pharmacies list their prices online, which can help you compare before you buy.

Always check the packaging when you receive the medication. The name, strength, and batch number should match what your doctor prescribed. If anything looks off – missing labels, unusual colors, or broken tablets – contact the pharmacy immediately.

In short, clarithromycin is a useful antibiotic when taken the right way. Stick to your doctor’s dosing instructions, watch for side effects, and only buy from a reputable, MHRA‑registered pharmacy. If you have any doubts, a quick call to your pharmacist can save you a lot of trouble.