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Klacid

Chinese name:

克拉仙

Medically reviewed by

Kenny Cheuk Yin Cheung, Pharmacist

Last Updated: 2022-04-20

What is Klacid?

Klacid is a brand medication that contains Clarithromycin, which belongs to a class of macrolide antibiotics. It works by interrupting protein synthesis in bacteriaI to kill bacteria. It is used for treating various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, pneumonia, skin and soft tissue infections and H. pylori eradication associated with peptic ulcer disease.

How to use it?

Klacid is available as tablet, modified-release tablets and oral suspension.

For respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and other susceptible infections
Adults

Take 250-500mg twice a day for 6-14 days.
Children 8-12 years

Take 250mg twice a day for 6-14 days.
Children 5-8 years

Take 187.5mg twice a day for 6-14 days.

Klacid MR (modified release) is a long-acting Clarithromycin product. Therefore take only 500-1000 mg once daily with food. Do not crush, split or chew modified-release tablets.

For H. pylori eradication associated with peptic ulcer disease

Adults

Take 500 mg twice daily for 7-14 days with another antibiotic and a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).

What are the side effects of Klacid?

Common side effects of Klacid include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, stomach discomfort and a metallic taste in the mouth.

Who should not take Klacid?

Anyone who has an allergy to Klacid or any other macrolide antibiotics.

Pharmacist Tips:

Taking Klacid may cause a metallic taste in your mouth. It is normal and will go away once you stop taking it.
Complete the whole course of antibiotics to prevent the risk of re-infection and bacterial resistance.

Common dosing schedule:

For extended-release tablets, take with food. Others take with or without food.

This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.

Some common medications Klacid may interact with:

Steroid medications, e.g. Budesonide, Fluticasone
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, e.g. Atorvastatin, Lovastatin, Simvastatin
QT-prolonging agents, e.g. Amiodarone

Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.

Where to buy Klacid in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Klacid is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk

Need more information?

For detailed information about the use of Klacid in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.

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