Drug interactions
Azithromycin + Droperidol
Severity: Major
Azithromycin and Droperidol: 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
Droperidol carries a boxed warning for QT prolongation and torsades de pointes, and azithromycin adds to this risk. Combined use may result in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia.
What this interaction means in plain words
Azithromycin and Droperidol 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 through blockade of cardiac repolarizing potassium current.
What to do
Avoid the combination when possible and use an alternative antiemetic or antibiotic. If used, obtain an ECG and continuous monitoring with correction of electrolytes.
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 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 Droperidol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Azithromycin and Droperidol 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. Droperidol carries a boxed warning for QT prolongation and torsades de pointes, and azithromycin adds to this risk. Combined use may result in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia.
How serious is the interaction between Azithromycin and Droperidol?
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 the combination when possible and use an alternative antiemetic or antibiotic. If used, obtain an ECG and continuous monitoring with correction of electrolytes.
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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