Clinical decision-support only. For use by licensed dental professionals. Not a substitute for professional judgment or a complete drug reference. Always verify with primary sources.
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Medication

Clarithromycin

Antibiotic (macrolide)

Brand names: Biaxin

Oral health effects

  • Metallic/bitter taste (dysgeusia)

    A characteristic, often pronounced metallic taste.

    Clinical management: Transient; reassure. Note CYP3A4 interactions with some sedatives.

  • Oral candidiasis (thrush)

    Broad-spectrum antibiotics suppress commensal bacteria, allowing Candida overgrowth in the mouth.

    Mechanism: Loss of competitive inhibition from normal flora.

    Clinical management: Watch for thrush, especially with repeated courses; treat with an antifungal; reinforce hygiene.

Sources

  1. A review and guide to drug-associated oral adverse effects-Dental, salivary and neurosensory reactions. Part 1. Teoh L, Moses G, McCullough MJ. Journal of oral pathology & medicine : official publication of the International Association of Oral Pathologists and the American Academy of Oral Pathology, 2019.
  2. Adverse drug events in the oral cavity. Yuan A, Woo SB. Oral surgery, oral medicine, oral pathology and oral radiology, 2015.