Why son still coughing despite medicating Clarithromycin?

Clarithromycin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic used to treat several bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections like pneumonia and bronchitis. While it is effective in treating these infections, some cases may require additional time for the medication to take full effect, and coughing may persist for several days.

Additionally, there could be other factors contributing to the ongoing cough:

1. Incomplete Treatment: It is crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed by the doctor, as recommended, even if the symptoms start to improve. Stopping the medication early can lead to incomplete eradication of the bacteria, causing a relapse or worsening of the infection.

2. Underlying Conditions: If your son has any underlying respiratory conditions, such as asthma or allergies, they might be contributing to the cough. These conditions require additional management beyond antibiotics.

3. Cough Variants: A cough can sometimes persist for a few weeks after an infection as part of the body's natural healing process. This is called post-infectious cough. While it can be bothersome, it usually resolves on its own.

4. Viral Infection: It is also possible that the initial infection was caused by a virus rather than bacteria, in which case antibiotics like Clarithromycin may be less effective. Viral infections typically require supportive treatments like rest, hydration, and pain relief.

If the cough persists despite completing the prescribed course of Clarithromycin, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. The doctor may recommend additional tests or consider alternative treatments appropriate for your son's specific condition.