Drug interactions
Clarithromycin + Conjugated estrogens
Severity: Minor
Clarithromycin and Conjugated estrogens: 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
Clarithromycin may modestly increase estrogen exposure by inhibiting CYP3A4, potentially intensifying estrogenic effects such as breast tenderness, fluid retention or thromboembolic risk. The effect is generally limited during a short antibiotic course.
What this interaction means in plain words
Clarithromycin and Conjugated estrogens 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
CYP3A4 inhibition reduces estrogen metabolism.
What to do
No routine change is needed; monitor for estrogen excess symptoms during prolonged clarithromycin therapy.
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 Clarithromycin
- Astemizole + Clarithromycin Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Clarithromycin Contraindicated
- Cisapride + Clarithromycin Contraindicated
- Clarithromycin + Colchicine Contraindicated
- Clarithromycin + Conivaptan Contraindicated
- Clarithromycin + Dihydroergotamine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Clarithromycin with Conjugated estrogens?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Clarithromycin and Conjugated estrogens have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Clarithromycin may modestly increase estrogen exposure by inhibiting CYP3A4, potentially intensifying estrogenic effects such as breast tenderness, fluid retention or thromboembolic risk. The effect is generally limited during a short antibiotic course.
How serious is the interaction between Clarithromycin and Conjugated estrogens?
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; monitor for estrogen excess symptoms during prolonged clarithromycin therapy.
What other medicines interact with Clarithromycin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Clarithromycin with, for example, Astemizole, Avanafil, Cisapride. The full list is on the Clarithromycin page.
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