Drug interactions
Azithromycin + Buprenorphine transdermal
Severity: Moderate
Azithromycin and Buprenorphine transdermal: moderate 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
Transdermal buprenorphine has labeled QT prolongation at higher doses, and azithromycin also prolongs QT. Combined use may increase the risk of torsades de pointes, particularly with electrolyte disturbance or heart disease.
What this interaction means in plain words
Azithromycin and Buprenorphine transdermal can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Additive pharmacodynamic QT prolongation through cardiac repolarization effects.
What to do
Use an alternative antibiotic when practical. If both are required, obtain a baseline ECG, correct potassium and magnesium, and monitor QTc.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Azithromycin
- Azithromycin + Cisapride Contraindicated
- Azithromycin + Domperidone Contraindicated
- Azithromycin + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Azithromycin + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Azithromycin + Piperaquine Contraindicated
- Azithromycin + Thioridazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Azithromycin with Buprenorphine transdermal?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Azithromycin and Buprenorphine transdermal can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Transdermal buprenorphine has labeled QT prolongation at higher doses, and azithromycin also prolongs QT. Combined use may increase the risk of torsades de pointes, particularly with electrolyte disturbance or heart disease.
How serious is the interaction between Azithromycin and Buprenorphine transdermal?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use an alternative antibiotic when practical. If both are required, obtain a baseline ECG, correct potassium and magnesium, and monitor QTc.
What other medicines interact with Azithromycin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Azithromycin with, for example, Cisapride, Domperidone, Dronedarone. The full list is on the Azithromycin page.
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