Rithmo Side Effects

Rithmo is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. Like any medication, it can cause side effects. Here are some common and less common side effects of Rithmo may include.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal symptoms: These are among the most common side effects of Rithmo and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• Changes in taste: Rithmo can sometimes cause a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches while taking Rithmo.
• Dizziness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded can occur as a side effect of Rithmo.
• Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or insomnia has been reported by some individuals while taking Rithmo.
• Skin reactions: Rash or itching of the skin may occur.
• Joint pain or muscle pain: Rithmo may cause discomfort in the joints or muscles.
• Nervous system effects: Rarely, Rithmo has been associated with central nervous system effects, such as confusion or hallucinations.
• Liver enzyme abnormalities: Rithmo can affect liver function, leading to elevated liver enzymes in some cases.

Less Common Side Effects

• Severe allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to Rithmo and may experience symptoms such as severe rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Anaphylaxis is a rare but severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea: Antibiotic use, including Rithmo, can sometimes lead to the overgrowth of Clostridium difficile bacteria in the colon, causing severe diarrhea and inflammation of the colon.
• Liver problems: Rithmo may cause liver problems in rare instances, leading to symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, or persistent nausea.
• Cardiac effects: There have been reports of QT prolongation (an abnormality in the heart’s electrical activity) and ventricular arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) associated with Rithmo, particularly when used in combination with certain other medications.
• Pancreatitis: Although uncommon, Rithmo has been associated with pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms may include severe abdominal pain.
• Blood disorders: Rithmo can affect blood cells, leading to conditions such as leukopenia (a decrease in white blood cells), thrombocytopenia (a decrease in platelets), or anemia.

Rithmo is one of the leading brands of Clarithromycin, manufactured and marketed by Sami Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Presently, Rithmo is available in Tablets, Suspensions, and Drop Forms.

Rithmo Tablets : 250mg and 500mg strengths.

Rithmo Syrup : 125mg/5ml and 250mg/5ml strengths.

Rithmo Drops : 125mg/5ml strength.

1. Statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors): Rithmo can increase the levels of statins in the blood, leading to an increased risk of statin-related side effects, including muscle pain and weakness. Statins affected by this interaction include atorvastatin, simvastatin, and lovastatin.
2. Warfarin: Rithmo may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. If you are taking warfarin, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage and monitor your blood clotting time more closely.
3. Theophylline: Rithmo can increase the levels of theophylline, a medication used to treat respiratory conditions. This can lead to theophylline toxicity. Dosage adjustments may be necessary.
4. Digoxin: Rithmo may increase the levels of digoxin in the blood, potentially leading to digoxin toxicity. If you are taking digoxin, your doctor may need to monitor your levels closely and adjust your dosage.
5. Colchicine: Rithmo can increase the levels of colchicine, leading to an increased risk of colchicine toxicity. This can be especially dangerous in individuals with kidney or liver problems.
6. Certain anticoagulants: Rithmo may enhance the effects of certain anticoagulant medications, increasing the risk of bleeding.
7. Ergotamine and dihydroergotamine: Concurrent use of Rithmo with these medications can lead to ergot toxicity, characterized by symptoms such as numbness, tingling, cold extremities, and potentially serious complications.
8. Carbamazepine: Rithmo may increase the levels of carbamazepine, potentially leading to carbamazepine toxicity.
9. Cisapride and pimozide: Rithmo can increase the risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias when used with these medications.