Biaxin XL should be taken with food. Taking Biaxin with food can reduce stomach upset. Take clarithromycin with a full glass of water. The side effects of clarithromycin mostly affect the digestive system. They include diarrhea, nausea, heartburn and pain in the abdomen.
Some people get headaches or rash.
Very few people who take clarithromycin get these side effects. However, most anti-HIV medications also cause problems in the digestive system. Clarithromycin could make those problems worse. Clarithromycin can be hard on the liver. Your doctor will probably watch your lab results carefully for any sign of liver damage.