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Drug interactions

Azithromycin + Ribociclib

Severity: Major

Azithromycin and Ribociclib: 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

Ribociclib causes dose-dependent QT prolongation, and azithromycin adds to this effect. The combination can increase the risk of torsades de pointes and sudden cardiac death.

What this interaction means in plain words

Azithromycin and Ribociclib 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.

Azithromycin belongs to Anti Bacterial; Ribociclib belongs to Oncology.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive QTc prolongation through cardiac repolarization effects.

What to do

Avoid the combination if possible and select a non-QT-prolonging antibiotic. If it cannot be avoided, monitor ECG and electrolytes closely and follow ribociclib dose-interruption guidance for QTc prolongation.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Azithromycin with Ribociclib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Azithromycin and Ribociclib 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. Ribociclib causes dose-dependent QT prolongation, and azithromycin adds to this effect. The combination can increase the risk of torsades de pointes and sudden cardiac death.

How serious is the interaction between Azithromycin and Ribociclib?

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 if possible and select a non-QT-prolonging antibiotic. If it cannot be avoided, monitor ECG and electrolytes closely and follow ribociclib dose-interruption guidance for QTc prolongation.

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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