Drug interactions
Amikacin + Cephaloridine
Severity: Major
Amikacin and Cephaloridine: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Cephaloridine is a nephrotoxic cephalosporin, and giving it with an aminoglycoside increases the likelihood of kidney injury. Reduced kidney function then raises aminoglycoside exposure and the risk of ototoxicity.
What this interaction means in plain words
Amikacin and Cephaloridine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Additive nephrotoxicity, with impaired renal clearance of amikacin increasing ototoxic exposure.
What to do
Avoid the combination; choose a less nephrotoxic cephalosporin if one is needed. If it must be used, monitor serum creatinine and amikacin levels closely.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Amikacin
- Amikacin + Cidofovir Contraindicated
- Adefovir + Amikacin Major
- Amikacin + Amphotericin b Major
- Amikacin + Amphotericin b deoxycholate Major
- Amikacin + Atracurium Major
- Amikacin + Bacitracin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Amikacin with Cephaloridine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Amikacin and Cephaloridine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Cephaloridine is a nephrotoxic cephalosporin, and giving it with an aminoglycoside increases the likelihood of kidney injury. Reduced kidney function then raises aminoglycoside exposure and the risk of ototoxicity.
How serious is the interaction between Amikacin and Cephaloridine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination; choose a less nephrotoxic cephalosporin if one is needed. If it must be used, monitor serum creatinine and amikacin levels closely.
What other medicines interact with Amikacin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Amikacin with, for example, Cidofovir, Adefovir, Amphotericin b. The full list is on the Amikacin page.
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