Drug interactions
Clarithromycin + Solifenacin
Severity: Major
Clarithromycin and Solifenacin: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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 is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and raises solifenacin exposure considerably. Both drugs can also prolong the QT interval, so the combination increases the risk of arrhythmia and of antimuscarinic adverse effects.
What this interaction means in plain words
Clarithromycin and Solifenacin 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.
Clarithromycin belongs to Anti Bacterial; Solifenacin belongs to Genitourinary.
Why it happens
CYP3A4 inhibition reducing solifenacin clearance, plus additive QT prolongation.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible, using a non-macrolide antibiotic. If it is unavoidable, limit solifenacin to 5 mg daily and monitor the ECG and 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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References
Other interactions of Solifenacin
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 Solifenacin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Clarithromycin and Solifenacin 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. Clarithromycin is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and raises solifenacin exposure considerably. Both drugs can also prolong the QT interval, so the combination increases the risk of arrhythmia and of antimuscarinic adverse effects.
How serious is the interaction between Clarithromycin and Solifenacin?
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 where possible, using a non-macrolide antibiotic. If it is unavoidable, limit solifenacin to 5 mg daily and monitor the ECG and electrolytes.
What other medicines interact with Solifenacin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Solifenacin with, for example, Adagrasib, Amiodarone, Amisulpride. The full list is on the Solifenacin page.
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