Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Talicia (omeprazole/amoxicillin/rifabutin) and clarithromycin are both used to treat infections, but they have some key differences. Talicia is a combination of three medications: a proton pump inhibitor (omeprazole), a penicillin antibiotic (amoxicillin), and a rifamycin antibiotic (rifabutin). It is specifically used to treat *Helicobacter pylori* (H. pylori) stomach infections in adults and is only available as a brand name medication. Clarithromycin, on the other hand, is a macrolide antibiotic available in generic form and treats a variety of bacterial infections, including lung, sinus, and skin infections, as well as *H. pylori* stomach ulcers. Talicia is taken as four capsules every 8 hours for 14 days, while clarithromycin dosing varies based on the infection type and can be taken as immediate-release or extended-release tablets. Talicia is not recommended for those with liver or severe kidney problems, while clarithromycin has many drug interactions and is not the best option for those with kidney issues. Both medications can cause serious side effects, but Talicia can also change the color of your skin and body fluids, which is not a side effect of clarithromycin.
Talicia
Clarithromycin
Talicia
Clarithromycin
Summary of Talicia vs. Biaxin
Summary for PPI / Penicillin antibiotic / Rifamycin antibiotic
Prescription only
Talicia is an all-in-one combination medication made up of three ingredients: omeprazole, amoxicillin, and rifabutin. It consists of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and two types of antibiotics, all of which are used to treat adults with a stomach infection caused by a bacteria called H. pylori. Omeprazole lowers the amount of stomach acid, allowing the antibiotics to work better and kill the bacteria. The medication is taken by mouth three times a day for 14 days. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, headache, and stomach pain.
Summary for Macrolide antibiotic
Prescription only
Clarithromycin (previously known by its brand name Biaxin) is an antibiotic that's used to treat a variety of bacterial infections in adults and children. It's available as a generic immediate-release tablet and solution taken twice per day and an extended-release tablet taken once per day. Side effects include a metallic or sour taste, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.