Drug interactions
Azithromycin + Cefoxitin
Severity: Minor
Azithromycin and Cefoxitin: 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
A bacteriostatic macrolide may reduce the killing effect of a bactericidal beta-lactam, which depends on actively dividing bacteria. This is mainly an in vitro concern, and combinations are commonly used clinically, for example in pneumonia, without evident harm.
What this interaction means in plain words
Azithromycin and Cefoxitin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Azithromycin belongs to Anti Bacterial; Cefoxitin belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Theoretical pharmacodynamic antagonism, as inhibition of protein synthesis limits bacterial growth needed for beta-lactam activity.
What to do
No routine change is needed when the combination is clinically indicated. Monitor clinical response in severe infections.
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 Cefoxitin
- Amikacin + Cefoxitin Moderate
- Aztreonam + Cefoxitin Moderate
- Bcg vaccine live + Cefoxitin Moderate
- Cefoxitin + Chloramphenicol Moderate
- Cefoxitin + Cholera vaccine Moderate
- Cefoxitin + Dexamethasone-tobramycin Moderate
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 Cefoxitin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Azithromycin and Cefoxitin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. A bacteriostatic macrolide may reduce the killing effect of a bactericidal beta-lactam, which depends on actively dividing bacteria. This is mainly an in vitro concern, and combinations are commonly used clinically, for example in pneumonia, without evident harm.
How serious is the interaction between Azithromycin and Cefoxitin?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No routine change is needed when the combination is clinically indicated. Monitor clinical response in severe infections.
What other medicines interact with Cefoxitin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cefoxitin with, for example, Amikacin, Aztreonam, Bcg vaccine live. The full list is on the Cefoxitin page.
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