BIAXIN XL (CLARITHROMYCIN)

Biaxin XL Description

Biaxin XL is an extended-release formula medication that is prescribed for those with confirmed bacterial infections, including strep throat, sinus and middle ear infection, and pneumonia. Your doctor will need to perform a blood test or take a small tissue sample to determine whether your infection is bacterial, fungal, or viral as Biaxin XL only works for bacterial infections.

Biaxin XL or generic Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that effectively treats staphylococcus, streptococcus, pneumococcus, and enterococcus infections and has a broader spectrum than penicillin. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Biaxin XL Takes Care of Bacteria

Bacterial cells need proteins as they are essential for sensing and relaying signals, and catalyzing enzymatic reactions. When taken as directed, Biaxin XL works by interfering with the way that bacteria grow and multiply by binding to specific sites where protein is produced in susceptible bacteria. This results in the bacterial cells being unable to perform their regular functions that include replicating to prolong the infection.

Biaxin XL and generic Clarithromycin is a bacteriostatic medicine, meaning that it doesn’t kill the bacteria outright but prevents their ability to increase their numbers. Any remaining bacteria die off or are destroyed by your own immune system.

Conditions Treated by Biaxin XL

One of the more common skin infections that may be treated with Biaxin XL is cellulitis. This is usually caused by staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria that start in areas with broken skin or surgical wounds where the bacteria can find their way into your skin tissues. The infected area becomes red and painful and begins to spread outwards causing inflammation. Although cellulitis can occur anywhere on your body, the legs seem to be a popular spot. Cellulitis is not contagious but it does need the attention of a doctor before it spreads and you experience more pain.

Before Biaxin XL is Prescribed

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding before taking Biaxin XL. To determine if Biaxin XL is right for your situation, discuss other medical conditions and allergies you have with your doctor and list any OTC or Rx drugs you take, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements.

Biaxin XL Precautions

Until you know how your body will react to Biaxin XL, you should avoid operating a vehicle, machinery, or performing other tasks that need your full attention. Take Biaxin XL for the full time period your doctor prescribed, even if you feel better. Discontinuing the medicine prematurely could result in the infection returning and the bacteria have become more resistance to the effects of the drug. Take Biaxin XL with food and swallow the pill whole in order to benefit from the extended-release.

Possible Side Effects of Biaxin XL

• Diarrhea
• Nausea/vomiting
• Abnormal taste in your mouth

Persistent or bloody diarrhea should be reported to your doctor immediately as it could be an indication of inflammation of the bowel.