Suggest Treatment For Vertigo While On Clarithromycin

Posted on Wed, 6 Sep 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 6 Sep 2017 Answered on

Fri, 6 Oct 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I started clarithromycin last week, 500 mg twice daily. I've developed extreme vertigo especially at night , mostly when I turn or come up to a sitting position. Could the drug be doing this?

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (15 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes could be

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

yes it could be clarithromycin that could be doing this. You can stop it and test it. If the problem persists you should visit a doctor.
This is a stronger antibiotic with high tissue bioavailable.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (40 hours later)

I didn't take my pm dose yesterday nor either dose today. I have felt a little light- headed a time or two but no extreme vertigo episodes so far. Thanks

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
alternate antibiotic

Detailed Answer:
Hi thats good sign, take oral rehydration salts in water. You can head to your doctor and report this experience. He can find an alternate antibiotic instead of clarithromycin.

If you do not have any more question please close and rate my answer

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana