Drug interactions
Clarithromycin + Thiotepa
Severity: Major
Clarithromycin and Thiotepa: 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
Clarithromycin is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and can change thiotepa metabolism. This may alter efficacy and increase toxicity such as myelosuppression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Clarithromycin and Thiotepa 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; Thiotepa belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Strong CYP3A4 inhibition by clarithromycin alters conversion of thiotepa to its active metabolite.
What to do
Prefer an alternative antibiotic such as azithromycin. If unavoidable, monitor closely for adverse reactions and blood counts.
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 Thiotepa
- Bendamustine + Thiotepa Major
- Chlorambucil + Thiotepa Major
- Cyclophosphamide + Thiotepa Major
- Dacarbazine + Thiotepa Major
- Deferiprone + Thiotepa Major
- Fingolimod + Thiotepa Major
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 Thiotepa?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Clarithromycin and Thiotepa 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 can change thiotepa metabolism. This may alter efficacy and increase toxicity such as myelosuppression.
How serious is the interaction between Clarithromycin and Thiotepa?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Prefer an alternative antibiotic such as azithromycin. If unavoidable, monitor closely for adverse reactions and blood counts.
What other medicines interact with Thiotepa?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Thiotepa with, for example, Bendamustine, Chlorambucil, Cyclophosphamide. The full list is on the Thiotepa page.
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