Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

clarithromycin immediate-release tablets

Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that inhibits protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit.

Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that inhibits protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit. Used for Community-acquired pneumonia, Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, Mild to moderate adult and pediatric patients with acute maxillary sinusitis.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

This binding action prevents the translocation of the ribosome along the mRNA, thereby inhibiting the synthesis of proteins essential for bacterial growth and survival. As a result, clarithromycin exerts its bacteriostatic effect, ultimately leading to the death of the bacterial cell.

Approved indications

• Community-acquired pneumonia
• Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis
• Mild to moderate adult and pediatric patients with acute maxillary sinusitis

Common side effects

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain

Key clinical trials

• The Potential of Givinostat as DDI Victim in Co-administration P-gp Inhibitor (Part 2) (PHASE1)
• Comparative Bioavailability Study of Clarithromycin 250 mg Tablets (PHASE1)
• Electrophysiological Effects of Potential QT Prolonging Drugs (PHASE1)
• A Study to Assess Effects of Clarithromycin on Pharmacokinetics of JNJ-54861911 in Healthy Male Participants (PHASE1)
• Comparative Bioavailability Study of Clarithromycin 500 mg Tablets in Fasting State (PHASE1)
• Comparative Bioavailability Study of Clarithromycin 500 mg Tablets in Fed State (PHASE1)
• Comparative Study of 5 Days of M02-472 Clarithromycin Extended-Release Tablets to 7 Days of Clarithromycin Immediate-Release Tablets for the Treatment of Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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