Drug interactions
Ampicillin-sulbactam + Erythromycin base
Severity: Minor
Ampicillin-sulbactam and Erythromycin base: minor 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
Bacteriostatic macrolides such as erythromycin have been proposed to antagonize the bactericidal activity of beta-lactams in some infections. Clinical evidence of reduced outcomes is inconsistent and largely theoretical.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ampicillin-sulbactam and Erythromycin base have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Bacteriostatic inhibition of protein synthesis may reduce the bactericidal action of beta-lactams, which depends on actively dividing bacteria.
What to do
Combination is often used intentionally, for example in community-acquired pneumonia; monitor clinical response and reassess if the patient fails to improve.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Ampicillin-sulbactam
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ampicillin-sulbactam with Erythromycin base?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Ampicillin-sulbactam and Erythromycin base have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Bacteriostatic macrolides such as erythromycin have been proposed to antagonize the bactericidal activity of beta-lactams in some infections. Clinical evidence of reduced outcomes is inconsistent and largely theoretical.
How serious is the interaction between Ampicillin-sulbactam and Erythromycin base?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Combination is often used intentionally, for example in community-acquired pneumonia; monitor clinical response and reassess if the patient fails to improve.
What other medicines interact with Ampicillin-sulbactam?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ampicillin-sulbactam with, for example, Methotrexate, Allopurinol, Bcg vaccine live. The full list is on the Ampicillin-sulbactam page.
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