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Drug interactions

Amiodarone + Erythromycin lactobionate

Severity: Major

Amiodarone and Erythromycin lactobionate: 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

Intravenous erythromycin inhibits CYP3A4 and can raise amiodarone concentrations. Both drugs prolong the QT interval, and IV erythromycin carries particular torsades risk.

What this interaction means in plain words

Amiodarone and Erythromycin lactobionate 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.

Amiodarone belongs to Cardiovascular; Erythromycin lactobionate belongs to Anti Bacterial.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

CYP3A4 inhibition by erythromycin plus additive QT prolongation.

What to do

Choose a non-QT-prolonging antibiotic if possible. If combined, use continuous ECG monitoring and correct potassium and magnesium.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Amiodarone with Erythromycin lactobionate?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Amiodarone and Erythromycin lactobionate 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. Intravenous erythromycin inhibits CYP3A4 and can raise amiodarone concentrations. Both drugs prolong the QT interval, and IV erythromycin carries particular torsades risk.

How serious is the interaction between Amiodarone and Erythromycin lactobionate?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Choose a non-QT-prolonging antibiotic if possible. If combined, use continuous ECG monitoring and correct potassium and magnesium.

What other medicines interact with Amiodarone?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Amiodarone with, for example, Amisulpride, Arsenic trioxide, Dofetilide. The full list is on the Amiodarone page.

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