Biaxin Side Effects

Although most people do not experience any problems with Biaxin, side effects are possible. Common side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, and headaches. In most cases, side effects of Biaxin are typically minor and are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. However, Biaxin can also cause serious side effects for some people. Notify your healthcare provider right away if you experience bloody diarrhea, hallucinations, or seizures.

An Introduction to Biaxin Side Effects

Just like any medicine, Biaxin® (clarithromycin) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Biaxin. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Biaxin side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Biaxin

Biaxin has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occurred in a group of people taking Biaxin were documented and then compared to the side effects that occurred in a similar group of people taking either a placebo (a "sugar pill" that does not contain any active ingredients) or a different antibiotic. As a result, it was possible to see what side effects occurred, how often they appeared, and how they compared to the group taking the placebo or other antibiotic.
 
In these studies, the most common side effects of Biaxin included:
 
  • Abnormal taste -- in up to 7 percent of people
  • Diarrhea -- up to 6 percent
  • Vomiting -- up to 6 percent
  • Indigestion or heartburn -- up to 3 percent
  • Abdominal pain (stomach pain) -- up to 3 percent
  • Headaches -- up to 2 percent.
     
(Biaxin Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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