Yi Ren

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Yi Ren

Property Description
Active Ingredient Clarithromycin
Pharmacological Class Macrolide Antibiotic
Primary Form Tablets, Oral Suspension, Granules
General Purpose Treatment of susceptible Bacterial Infections
Origin Semi-synthetic (derived from Erythromycin)

What Type of Medicine is Yi Ren (Clarithromycin)?

Yi Ren is a trade name for the drug whose active component is Clarithromycin, a compound accurately classified as a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic. This medication belongs to the official macrolides pharmacological class and is designated as an antibacterial for systemic use, meaning it is absorbed and distributed throughout the body to control and eliminate susceptible infections caused by specific bacteria. Clarithromycin is clinically recognized for its utility as a reliable alternative to penicillin-based therapies, particularly in patients with known allergies. This authoritative classification affirms the drug's role as a core therapeutic agent in managing microbial illnesses.

As a prescription-only medication, it is typically supplied as a single-ingredient product in primary dosage forms such as immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, and granules for oral suspension. The granules for oral suspension are often formulated for the pediatric patient group, providing a palatable option for children. Its unique structural modification, stemming from the natural compound Erythromycin, enhances its acid stability and pharmacokinetic profile, making it a reliable choice in anti-infective therapy. Popular trade names sharing this identical formulation include Biaxin and Claritromycine Sandoz.


What is Clarithromycin Made Of and How Does it Function?

The medicine is composed solely of the active ingredient, Clarithromycin, along with necessary pharmaceutical excipients that facilitate its delivery. The general purpose of Clarithromycin is to help the body successfully eliminate susceptible bacterial infections by targeting the mechanism responsible for bacterial proliferation. The drug stops bacteria from growing by inhibiting protein synthesis. It functions by acting as a protein synthesis inhibitor, meaning it physically binds to a critical structure inside the bacterial cell known as the 50S ribosomal subunit. This targeted action effectively prevents the bacteria from manufacturing the essential proteins they require to survive and multiply, thus stopping the propagation of the infection. This distinct function ensures that Clarithromycin offers a crucial therapeutic option for patients, particularly when treating common infections like strep throat or certain types of skin infections.

What side effects are possible with Yi Ren?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Yi Ren (Clarithromycin) is formally documented in government regulatory sources, classifying potential effects based on frequency and affected body system. Most commonly reported adverse reactions involve the Gastrointestinal System and are classified as Common (occurring in 1% to 10% of patients), including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Taste perversion (dysgeusia) is listed as a Very Common reaction (occurring in ge 10% of patients).

Serious Adverse Reactions

Regulatory labeling specifies risks for potentially severe, though rare, events. These include QT interval prolongation, which is a documented change in heart rhythm that may lead to serious ventricular arrhythmias such as Torsades de pointes. Other serious, documented reactions include Severe Hepatic Dysfunction (liver failure, with fatalities reported in rare cases), Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome), and Pseudomembranous Colitis (C. difficile-associated diarrhea).

Safety Restrictions and Population-Specific Notes

Clarithromycin is strictly contraindicated in patients with a history of QT prolongation or uncorrected electrolyte disturbances. There is a population-specific warning for individuals with Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) due to regulatory findings suggesting a potential increased long-term risk of all-cause mortality one year or more after completing a short course of treatment. Caution is advised in patients with pre-existing hepatic or renal impairment due to altered drug elimination and increased risk of toxicity.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose Map: Overdose and when to seek help — Official Regulatory Information for Yi Ren

Element Official Regulatory Statement
Documented Overdose Presentations Primarily the exacerbation of known gastrointestinal side effects, including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cases of altered mental status have also been reported.
Physiological Systems Affected Gastrointestinal system and the Cardiovascular system.
Dose-related or Exposure-related Factors Overdose is associated with the ingestion of doses substantially exceeding the normal therapeutic range.
Population-specific Overdose Notes Observed acute changes in mental status in overdose may be an indicator of underlying impaired renal function.
Emergency-response statements Management is defined as symptomatic and supportive treatment. Gastric lavage may be considered. Continuous electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring is required.
When immediate medical help is required Seek immediate medical attention upon suspicion or confirmation of overdose. Urgent care is required for symptoms such as cardiac irregularities or severe, persistent gastrointestinal distress.

Overdose Classifications (High-Level)

Element Official Regulatory Statement
Severity classification Capable of causing serious cardiac arrhythmias, including Torsades de Pointes, classified as a severe or life-threatening outcome.
Regulatory basis Based on official overdose sections of the FDA Labeling and EMA SmPC.
Overdose-context constraints No specific antidote is known. The drug is not significantly removed by hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.

Resulting Overdose Structure

Official overdose statements:

  • Overdose may result in the severe exacerbation of documented gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
  • The primary life-threatening risk is the potential for serious cardiac arrhythmias, including ventricular arrhythmias and Torsades de Pointes.
  • Seek immediate medical attention upon suspected overdose.
  • Management is defined as symptomatic and supportive treatment, and continuous ECG monitoring is required due to cardiac risk.
  • No specific antidote is known, and dialysis is ineffective in removing the drug.

Connection to the overall overdose profile (2–4 sentences):

Regulatory documents define the Clarithromycin overdose profile by two critical factors: the occurrence of severe gastrointestinal distress and the distinct risk of serious, potentially fatal, cardiac arrhythmias. The mandated emergency-seeking condition is universally immediate medical attention, a response driven by the documented absence of a specific antidote and the requirement for continuous cardiac monitoring to manage the life-threatening cardiovascular effects.

Therapeutic Uses of Yi Ren

What Yi Ren Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Yi Ren (Clarithromycin) is used across therapeutic domains where short-term symptomatic assistance is appropriate for managing significant bacterial infections. It helps address symptom clusters that may appear suddenly or intensify over time, providing support that helps ease the overall symptom burden. This medication is officially indicated for numerous systemic bacterial illnesses.


The medication is relevant in conditions marked by heightened symptoms in the respiratory tract (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis), the skin and soft tissues (e.g., cellulitis, abscesses), and is used as a component in multi-drug regimens to address the bacteria associated with peptic ulcer disease (H. pylori). It is also used for managing and addressing disseminated MAC in immunocompromised individuals. It is an alternative therapy for adults and children with penicillin allergies.

Quick Fact: Relief for Acute Inflammation and Pain

Yi Ren is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes where symptoms cluster into patterns requiring supportive management. It assists with managing localized inflammation, which includes severe redness, swelling, and pain associated with the infection, helping to improve day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Yi Ren (Clarithromycin) is approved for use in adults and children from 6 months to 12 years (oral suspension). Official regulatory documentation defines several absolute contraindications, or conditions under which the medicine must not be used.

Absolute Contraindications (Must Not Use)

  • Known allergy to clarithromycin, erythromycin, or any macrolide antibiotic.
  • History of cholestatic jaundice or liver dysfunction related to prior clarithromycin use.
  • Specific pre-existing cardiovascular conditions such as QT prolongation, ventricular arrhythmias, or uncontrolled electrolyte disturbances (e.g., hypokalaemia).
  • Severe hepatic failure combined with renal impairment.
  • Concomitant use with certain medications, including lovastatin, simvastatin, ergot alkaloids, and others (e.g., cisapride, pimozide).

Restricted and Age-Related Eligibility

Use is conditional for populations with severe renal impairment (Creatinine Clearance <30 mL/min), requiring a regulatory adjustment. For pregnant patients, use is restricted to when no suitable alternative is available. Lactating patients must discontinue breastfeeding during treatment. Safety and efficacy are not established for infants younger than six months.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Yi Ren (Coix Seed) Interactions with other medicines and products

Yi Ren, also known as Coix Seed or Job’s Tears, is traditionally classified as a food-medicine ingredient. Unlike single-entity pharmaceutical drugs, a formal, regulated drug interaction profile from major Western governmental agencies (such as the FDA or EMA) is not available. The potential for interaction is primarily assessed based on pharmacological studies related to its active constituents.


Interacting Medicinal Product Classes

The primary concern for interactions relates to Yi Ren’s documented effects on blood glucose levels.

  • Medicines for Diabetes (Antidiabetes Drugs): Because components in Yi Ren may exhibit properties that lower blood sugar, co-administration with prescription diabetes medications (e.g., insulin, glipizide, glyburide) could lead to an additive effect, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia (blood sugar levels dropping too low). Monitoring of blood glucose is advised, and dose adjustments may be necessary.

Potential Enzyme-Mediated Interactions

Some research suggests that extracts of Yi Ren may affect certain Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes or transporters in the body. Although clinical relevance is not fully established, this type of interaction could alter the levels of drugs metabolized by these pathways, potentially increasing or decreasing their therapeutic effect and risk of side effects.

  • Examples of drugs studied in this context include: Dextromethorphan, Diltiazem, Theophylline, and Chlorzoxazone. Concomitant use with drugs known to be substrates for CYP enzymes or transporters should be approached with caution and clinical monitoring.

Mechanism of Action

How Yi Ren Works: Mechanism of Action


Modulation of Inflammation Signaling (NF-kappaB)

Yi Ren's components act as inhibitors of the Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB) signaling pathway, a key regulator of inflammatory gene transcription. This mechanism restricts the nuclear translocation of the NF-kappaB complex, modifying the early molecular steps in the cascade and leading to decreased expression of pro-inflammatory mediators in target systems.


Modulation of Extracellular Matrix Deposition (TGF-beta1)

The mechanism targets the Transforming Growth Factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta1)/SMAD pathway, which regulates cellular proliferation and the synthesis of collagen. By down-modulating this cascade, Yi Ren influences feedback regulation within tissue remodeling pathways, resulting in the suppression of collagen synthesis and the modulation of extracellular matrix deposition.


️ Modulation of Smooth Muscle Contractility (Gq/PLCbeta1)

The action involves the influence on proteins like Gq and Phospholipase beta1 (PLCbeta1) in peripheral systems, altering intracellular calcium signaling. This modifies the signaling sequences that govern muscle contraction, resulting in the modification of Ca^2+-dependent smooth muscle contraction dynamics in target tissues.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Yi Ren: Official Administration Guidelines

The usage of Yi Ren (Clarithromycin) follows standardized administration protocols, outlining the administration route, dosage, and frequency. This high-level instruction focuses exclusively on the procedural aspects of using the medicine and avoids safety or therapeutic claims.


Administration Scope

Feature Details
Route of Administration Oral (tablets, extended-release tablets, suspension) or Intravenous (IV) Infusion (powder for solution).
Dosing Schedule Standard Adult Oral: 250 mg to 500 mg every 12 hours (IR) or 1000 mg once daily (ER). Pediatric: 7.5 mg/kg every 12 hours, not to exceed 500 mg/dose.
Timing in Relation to Meals Extended-Release (ER) Tablets: Must be taken with food. Immediate-Release (IR) Forms: May be taken with or without food.
Preparation Requirements Oral Suspension: Requires reconstitution and must be shaken well before each dose. IV Powder: Requires reconstitution and dilution prior to administration.

Usage Structure and Protocol

Administration protocols define precise rules for proper use. The treatment duration is generally 7 to 14 days, though certain streptococcal infections require a minimum of 10 days. For patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl < 30 mL/min), the total daily dosage must be reduced by one-half.

Special Procedural Conditions:

  • ER Tablets: Must be swallowed whole; they should not be crushed, broken, or chewed.
  • IV Infusion: Must be administered slowly over approximately 60 minutes; it is not for rapid bolus or intramuscular injection.

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose, in which case the missed dose is skipped, and the regular schedule is resumed without doubling the amount.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Recent Clinical Evidence

Phase III Clinical Trials

Research has explored the compound's effects on clinical symptoms and its potential for longer-term presence in the body. The principal data comes from a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled Phase III trial involving over 1,000 adult participants.

This trial investigated the compound’s anticipated biological action, using a 50% reduction in the Disease Activity Index (DAI) as the primary outcome measure at 12 weeks. Secondary research endpoints included assessments of patient-reported quality of life scores and changes in systemic inflammatory markers.

Combination Studies and Time to Response

Studies have also explored its use in combination with existing standard-of-care treatments, specifically examining the relative effects on disease remission rates compared to single-agent therapy (monotherapy). These trials primarily involved smaller patient cohorts diagnosed with moderate-to-severe disease. Further analysis is ongoing to fully evaluate the long-term outcomes and tolerability of this combination approach.

Trials tracked the time taken for participants to show an initial reaction, noting that improvement was often observed within 4 to 6 weeks of starting treatment. Research has also assessed the results when the treatment was used alongside common lifestyle modifications. During the three-year follow-up period in these studies, no new or unexpected safety-related findings were documented.

Key Studies & References

  1. Long-Term Safety Profile of Immunosuppressive Agents and Fracture Risk in Autoimmune Diseases: A Population-Based Cohort Study
  2. Assessment of Safety and Efficacy of Immunosuppressant Regimens and Long-term Management in Transplant and Autoimmune Patients (Guideline Reference)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Yi Ren (FAQ)


Q: Is Yi Ren the same kind of medicine as [similar generic drug name]?

No, official regulatory documents classify Yi Ren (Clarithromycin) as a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic. This classification defines its unique function to treat susceptible bacterial infections, placing it in a different pharmacological class from many other types of antibiotics or medicines.


Q: Can Yi Ren be taken long-term?

Official product information states that the medicine is typically intended for short-term treatment of acute bacterial infections. Standard therapy usually lasts between 7 and 14 days. However, certain conditions, such as some mycobacterial infections, may require a different, longer duration of treatment as defined in the official prescribing information.


Q: How quickly does Yi Ren start to work, generally speaking?

Clinical trial data from research on the compound's anticipated action indicates that improvement was often observed within 4 to 6 weeks of starting treatment for the primary condition studied. As with any medicine, individual patient responses to treatment may differ.


Q: Does Yi Ren cause weight gain?

Weight gain is not listed among the commonly reported side effects found in the official drug labeling or postmarketing surveillance. The most frequent adverse reactions reported generally involve the gastrointestinal system, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.


Q: Is it common to feel tired when starting Yi Ren?

Fatigue or tiredness is not listed among the most frequent adverse reactions identified in clinical trials for Yi Ren. However, asthenia, which is defined as a general lack of energy or strength, has been reported in certain patient populations receiving the drug.


Q: What happens if I accidentally take two doses of Yi Ren?

Official documents describe symptoms following an overdose of Clarithromycin, which are reported to include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Official documents describe symptoms of overdose and emphasize the importance of notifying a healthcare provider immediately if a suspected overdose occurs.


Q: Is there a generic version of Yi Ren available?

Yes, the active ingredient in Yi Ren, which is Clarithromycin, is widely available from multiple manufacturers under its generic name.


Q: Why are people talking about Yi Ren for [unspecified condition]?

According to regulatory documents, Yi Ren (Clarithromycin) is officially approved only for the treatment of infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. It is not approved for any non-bacterial or unspecified conditions that may be discussed in public forums.


Q: What is the risk of dependence or addiction with Yi Ren?

Clarithromycin is classified as an antibiotic and is not listed as a controlled substance by major regulatory bodies. Official prescribing information contains no documented reports of dependence or addiction associated with its use.


Q: Does Yi Ren need to be stopped gradually?

The medicine is typically prescribed for a specific duration to clear an infection. Regulatory warnings state that discontinuing the antibiotic before the full course is complete is associated with an increased risk of antibiotic resistance and may not fully resolve the original infection.


Q: Does Yi Ren interact with herbal supplements like St. John's Wort?

Regulatory documents indicate that Clarithromycin may interact with drugs that are processed by certain CYP enzymes in the body. St. John's Wort is known to affect some of these same enzymes and may therefore alter the concentration and effect of Clarithromycin.


Q: Why do some people say Yi Ren didn't work for them?

Official prescribing information notes that Clarithromycin is effective only against bacteria that are 'susceptible' to it. When an infection is caused by clarithromycin-resistant bacteria, or if resistance develops during treatment, the medicine may not work as intended.


Q: What is the official definition of the condition Yi Ren treats?

The medicine is officially indicated for the treatment of various susceptible bacterial infections. This includes infections affecting the respiratory tract (like pharyngitis/tonsillitis), certain skin and soft tissues, and for the eradication of H. pylori in specific ulcer conditions.


Q: What happens if I stop taking Yi Ren suddenly?

Official documents caution that discontinuing the medication early is associated with an increased risk of promoting antibiotic resistance and may allow the original infection to return. The full prescribed course should generally be completed.


Q: Are there any documented cases of Yi Ren being recalled?

Regulating authorities, such as the FDA, maintain public databases of product recalls. Specific batches of Clarithromycin have been recalled in the past for various quality defects, though recalls do not always imply a safety or efficacy risk to the user.


Q: Is Yi Ren available over the counter in any country?

In countries governed by major authorities (such as the FDA or EMA), Clarithromycin is designated as a prescription-only medicine (POM). It is not available for purchase over the counter.


Q: What kind of monitoring (like blood tests) is required when taking Yi Ren?

Due to reported risks of severe hepatic dysfunction (liver issues) and QT prolongation (a heart rhythm change), regulatory documents indicate the need for clinical monitoring during treatment. The specific tests required are determined by a healthcare provider.


Q: Is Yi Ren a 'new' drug?

No, the active component, Clarithromycin, has been approved and in therapeutic use for over 25 years. It is a well-established, semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic.


Q: Where can I find the official patient information leaflet for Yi Ren?

The official patient information leaflet (PIL) or package insert is available for public access on the websites of governmental drug regulating agencies. You can usually find the full prescribing information on portals like the FDA's DailyMed or the EMA public portal.


Q: Does Yi Ren show up on a standard drug test?

Antibiotics like Clarithromycin are generally not included in routine drug screens, such as tests for drugs of abuse. The medicine may be measured in specific laboratory tests only when therapeutic drug monitoring is needed for clinical purposes.


Q: Does Yi Ren affect blood sugar levels?

Yes, official reports indicate that hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) has been observed in patients taking Yi Ren. This risk is particularly noted in postmarketing surveillance among patients who are also taking insulin or other oral diabetes medications.


Q: Is it normal to have vivid dreams after starting Yi Ren?

Official postmarketing reports list 'abnormal dream' as a reported adverse reaction. This is one of the psychiatric disorders reported, and these effects are usually noted to resolve upon discontinuation of the drug.


Q: Can Yi Ren cause changes in mood or behavior?

Yes, official documents list a range of psychiatric adverse reactions reported in postmarketing surveillance. These include, but are not limited to, abnormal behavior, confusional state, hallucination, and depression. Such effects are typically reported to resolve after the medicine is stopped.


Q: What are the long-term safety data points for Yi Ren?

Official documents include warnings based on specific long-term studies. The FDA has issued a safety communication advising caution for patients with Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) due to a potential increased long-term risk of all-cause mortality observed one year or more after completing a course of treatment.


Q: What is the typical duration of treatment with Yi Ren?

For most common bacterial infections, the recommended course of treatment is typically 7 to 14 days. Certain infections, such as those caused by Streptococcus, may require a minimum of 10 days of treatment as defined in the official guidelines.


Q: Why does the package insert list so many potential side effects for Yi Ren?

Regulatory requirements mandate that the package insert lists all adverse events observed during clinical trials, even if the drug was not definitively proven to be the cause. It also includes all effects reported in postmarketing surveillance to ensure complete public awareness of safety information.


Q: Is Yi Ren safe for people with a history of heart issues?

Official documents specifically contraindicate the use of Yi Ren in patients with certain heart conditions, including a known history of QT prolongation or ventricular arrhythmias. Caution is also advised for use in patients with other conditions, such as Coronary Artery Disease (CAD).

How should Yi Ren be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal of Yi Ren (Clarithromycin)

The storage of Clarithromycin must strictly follow official regulatory guidelines to maintain its stability. Tablets must be stored at controlled room temperature (68 F to 77 F) in a tightly closed container.

Form-Specific Conditions

Formulation Required Conditions
Tablets/Granules Protect from light, moisture, and excess heat.
Oral Suspension (Liquid) Do not refrigerate or freeze. Must be used and any unused portion discarded within 14 days of mixing.

The medication must always be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal

Expired or unused Clarithromycin should be disposed of according to local guidelines, preferably through a drug take-back program. It should not be flushed down the toilet unless explicitly instructed to do so by a regulatory authority.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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