Rithmo (500mg) 10 Tablets

Rithmo (500mg) contains Clarithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria responsible for respiratory tract, skin, and soft tissue infections. Rithmo is also used in combination therapy to eliminate Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in the stomach, which helps prevent and heal peptic ulcers.

Ingredients
Active Ingredient: Clarithromycin 500 mg
Inactive Ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, povidone, and other excipients.

Drug Class
Macrolide Antibiotic

Dosage Form
Oral Tablet

Uses

• Treatment of respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia, pharyngitis, and sinusitis

• Skin and soft tissue infections

• Ear infections (otitis media)

• Eradication of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria in peptic ulcer disease (as part of combination therapy)

• Treatment of certain throat and tonsil infections caused by susceptible bacteria

Dosage

• Adults: Typically 250–500 mg every 12 hours for 7–14 days, depending on infection type and severity.

• For H. pylori infection: Used as part of triple therapy with a proton pump inhibitor and another antibiotic for 7–14 days.

• Always complete the prescribed course, even if symptoms improve before finishing treatment.

In case of Overdose
Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
Seek immediate medical help or contact a healthcare professional in case of overdose.

Missed Dose
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as possible.
If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one — do not double up to compensate.

How To Use
Take the tablet by mouth with a full glass of water, with or without food.
Taking it after meals may reduce stomach discomfort.
Swallow the tablet whole — do not crush or chew.
Take at evenly spaced intervals to maintain consistent drug levels in your body.

When Not to Use

• If allergic to Clarithromycin, other macrolide antibiotics (such as erythromycin or azithromycin), or any of the excipients

• If you have severe liver or kidney problems

• If taking medications such as pimozide, cisapride, or ergot alkaloids

• During pregnancy or breastfeeding, unless specifically prescribed by a doctor

Side Effects
Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, or altered taste
Less common: Dizziness, indigestion, or mild rash
Serious (rare): Liver dysfunction, irregular heartbeat, hearing changes, or severe allergic reactions

Precautions & Warnings

• Use only under medical supervision.

• Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease.

• Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment.

• Do not use together with other strong antibiotics unless prescribed.

• Use caution if taking medications that can affect heart rhythm (QT prolongation).

• Complete the full treatment course to prevent antibiotic resistance.

• Stop using and contact your doctor if you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent abdominal pain.

Drug Interactions

• Statins (simvastatin, lovastatin) – increased risk of muscle injury (rhabdomyolysis)

• Warfarin – may increase bleeding risk

• Digoxin – may raise digoxin levels

• Theophylline – may increase toxicity

• Certain antifungals and antiepileptics – can alter Clarithromycin metabolism

• Avoid combining with other macrolides or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors unless directed by a doctor

Storage/Disposal
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture.
Keep out of reach of children.
Do not use after expiry date.
Dispose of unused or expired tablets safely, according to local waste disposal regulations.

Control Drug
Prescription-only medicine. Not a controlled substance.

Quick Tips

• Take with or after food to minimize stomach upset.

• Do not skip doses; complete the full course even if you feel better.

• Avoid alcohol during therapy.

• Inform your doctor about all current medications to avoid interactions.

• Report any unusual symptoms such as persistent diarrhea or skin rash immediately.

• Store tablets in their original blister pack until use to protect from moisture.