Drug interactions
Artemether + Clarithromycin
Severity: Major
Artemether and Clarithromycin: 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
Artemether and clarithromycin can each prolong the QT interval, so combined use increases the risk of ventricular arrhythmias including torsades de pointes. Clarithromycin may also raise artemether exposure through CYP3A4 inhibition.
What this interaction means in plain words
Artemether and Clarithromycin 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 QT prolongation, with possible CYP3A4 inhibition by clarithromycin raising artemether levels.
What to do
Avoid if an alternative antibiotic is available. If both are needed, check a baseline ECG, correct electrolytes and monitor for palpitations or syncope.
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 Clarithromycin
- Astemizole + Clarithromycin Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Clarithromycin Contraindicated
- Cisapride + Clarithromycin Contraindicated
- Clarithromycin + Colchicine Contraindicated
- Clarithromycin + Conivaptan Contraindicated
- Clarithromycin + Dihydroergotamine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Artemether with Clarithromycin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Artemether and Clarithromycin 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. Artemether and clarithromycin can each prolong the QT interval, so combined use increases the risk of ventricular arrhythmias including torsades de pointes. Clarithromycin may also raise artemether exposure through CYP3A4 inhibition.
How serious is the interaction between Artemether and Clarithromycin?
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 if an alternative antibiotic is available. If both are needed, check a baseline ECG, correct electrolytes and monitor for palpitations or syncope.
What other medicines interact with Clarithromycin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Clarithromycin with, for example, Astemizole, Avanafil, Cisapride. The full list is on the Clarithromycin page.
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