Drug interactions
Azithromycin + Sodium citrate / citric acid
Severity: Minor
Azithromycin and Sodium citrate / citric acid: 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
Citrate-based alkalinizing agents may slightly reduce the rate of oral azithromycin absorption by buffering gastric acid. The effect is likely small.
What this interaction means in plain words
Azithromycin and Sodium citrate / citric acid have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Gastric buffering may reduce the rate of azithromycin absorption.
What to do
Separate administration by about 2 hours.
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 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 Sodium citrate / citric acid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Azithromycin and Sodium citrate / citric acid have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Citrate-based alkalinizing agents may slightly reduce the rate of oral azithromycin absorption by buffering gastric acid. The effect is likely small.
How serious is the interaction between Azithromycin and Sodium citrate / citric acid?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Separate administration by about 2 hours.
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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