Drug interactions
Amiodarone + Erythromycin stearate
Severity: Major
Amiodarone and Erythromycin stearate: 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
Erythromycin inhibits CYP3A4 and can raise amiodarone concentrations. Both drugs prolong the QT interval, so torsades de pointes risk is increased.
What this interaction means in plain words
Amiodarone and Erythromycin stearate 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
CYP3A4 inhibition by erythromycin plus additive QT prolongation.
What to do
Use a non-QT-prolonging antibiotic if possible. If combined, monitor ECG and electrolytes (potassium, 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?
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Other interactions of Amiodarone
- Amiodarone + Amisulpride Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Arsenic trioxide Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Droperidol Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Eliglustat Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Amiodarone with Erythromycin stearate?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Amiodarone and Erythromycin stearate 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. Erythromycin inhibits CYP3A4 and can raise amiodarone concentrations. Both drugs prolong the QT interval, so torsades de pointes risk is increased.
How serious is the interaction between Amiodarone and Erythromycin stearate?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use a non-QT-prolonging antibiotic if possible. If combined, monitor ECG and electrolytes (potassium, 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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