Drug interactions
Atorvastatin + Erythromycin stearate
Severity: Major
Atorvastatin and Erythromycin stearate: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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 raises atorvastatin concentrations, increasing the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis. The risk is greater at higher statin doses and in older patients or those with renal impairment.
What this interaction means in plain words
Atorvastatin 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
Erythromycin inhibits CYP3A4 (and possibly OATP1B1), reducing atorvastatin clearance.
What to do
Prefer a non-interacting antibiotic such as azithromycin, or temporarily withhold atorvastatin during the course. If combined, use the lowest statin dose and monitor for muscle symptoms.
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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References
Other interactions of Atorvastatin
- Atorvastatin + Tipranavir Contraindicated
- Atazanavir + Atorvastatin Major
- Atorvastatin + Clarithromycin Major
- Atorvastatin + Cobicistat Major
- Atorvastatin + Cyclosporin Major
- Atorvastatin + Danazol Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Atorvastatin with Erythromycin stearate?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Atorvastatin 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 raises atorvastatin concentrations, increasing the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis. The risk is greater at higher statin doses and in older patients or those with renal impairment.
How serious is the interaction between Atorvastatin 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: Prefer a non-interacting antibiotic such as azithromycin, or temporarily withhold atorvastatin during the course. If combined, use the lowest statin dose and monitor for muscle symptoms.
What other medicines interact with Atorvastatin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Atorvastatin with, for example, Tipranavir, Atazanavir, Clarithromycin. The full list is on the Atorvastatin page.
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