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Clarithromycin (brand name: Biaxin®) is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections, such as Helicobacter species and Rhodococcus equi in foals.
Its use in cats, dogs, ferrets, and horses, to treat bacterial infections, is “off label” or “extra label”. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours, and while effects may not be obvious, gradual improvements are usually noticeable after a few days.
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Side effects seem uncommon, although information is currently limited in domestic animals. Possible side effects include:
In cats, side effects may include:
Serious side effects may occur. If any of the following signs develop, contact your veterinarian immediately:
It is unknown if there are rare effects in pets. In humans, rare effects have occurred, such as liver problems, decreased platelets (the blood cells involved in blood clotting), and allergic reactions. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Clarithromycin should NOT BE USED in:
Clarithromycin should be USED WITH CAUTION in:
The following medications should be used with caution when given with clarithromycin:
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Aug 2, 2024.
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