Drug interactions
amiodarone + ciprofloxacin
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.
Overview
Both drugs can prolong the QT interval, so combined use raises the risk of torsades de pointes. Amiodarone carries a substantial intrinsic risk and ciprofloxacin adds to it, especially with hypokalemia, bradycardia or structural heart disease.
Mechanism of action
Additive blockade of cardiac repolarizing potassium channels (hERG) leading to QT prolongation.
Clinical management
Avoid if a non-QT-prolonging antibiotic is suitable; otherwise obtain a baseline ECG, correct potassium and magnesium, and monitor the QTc during therapy.
Drug reference
Frequently asked questions
Can I take amiodarone with ciprofloxacin?
The interaction is rated: Major. Both drugs can prolong the QT interval, so combined use raises the risk of torsades de pointes. Amiodarone carries a substantial intrinsic risk and ciprofloxacin adds to it, especially with hypokalemia, bradycardia or structural heart disease.
How serious is the interaction between amiodarone and ciprofloxacin?
The interaction is rated: Major. Evidence level: Moderate.
How is the interaction between amiodarone and ciprofloxacin managed?
Avoid if a non-QT-prolonging antibiotic is suitable; otherwise obtain a baseline ECG, correct potassium and magnesium, and monitor the QTc during therapy.
Why do amiodarone and ciprofloxacin interact?
Additive blockade of cardiac repolarizing potassium channels (hERG) leading to QT prolongation.
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