Antibiotic (Macrolide)
Brand of Clarithromycin
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Clarithromycin is an antibiotic that works by stopping bacteria from growing and multiplying in your body, helping your immune system fight off infections.
Binds to bacterial 50S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting protein synthesis and causing bacteriostatic effects against susceptible aerobic and anaerobic organisms. Also exhibits prokinetic activity on gastric smooth muscle, enhancing gastric motility and reducing acid reflux.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Adults usually take one 500 mg tablet twice a day (morning and night) for 7 to 14 days depending on the infection. You can take it with or without food, but taking it with food can reduce stomach upset. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water — do not crush or chew it. Popular brands in Nigeria include Claricin, Clarimax, Acem-500, and Claritek.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the one you missed.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Always complete the full course of antibiotics even if you feel better after a few days — stopping early can make the bacteria resistant and the infection harder to treat next time. Buy only from licensed pharmacies and look out for NAFDAC-registered brands like Claricin, Clarimax, or Acem-500 — avoid roadside or unregistered sellers. Do not share your antibiotics with family or friends, even if they have similar symptoms.
Do not take clarithromycin with ergotamine-based migraine drugs as it can cause dangerous side effects. If you are taking blood-thinning drugs like warfarin, clarithromycin can increase your risk of bleeding — tell your doctor. Avoid taking it with certain heart medications like amiodarone or statins like atorvastatin without your doctor's knowledge. Alcohol can increase stomach irritation, so it is best to avoid it while on this medication.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Clarithromycin with your other drugs?
Clarithromycin is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first three months, and breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before using it.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so do not leave it in your car or near a window. Keep the tablets in their original pack and far away from children. If you have the liquid suspension, check if it needs to be kept in a fridge after mixing.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Genuine packaging for Claridex-500 Tablet Clarithromycin 500 mg
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NAFDAC Number
A4-9083
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