Drug interactions
Clindamycin + Erythromycin ethylsuccinate
Severity: Minor
Clindamycin and Erythromycin ethylsuccinate: 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
Erythromycin and clindamycin bind overlapping sites on the 50S ribosomal subunit, so in vitro they can compete and the combination may be antagonistic. The clinical significance is uncertain, but it could reduce antibacterial effect when both are given for the same infection.
What this interaction means in plain words
Clindamycin and Erythromycin ethylsuccinate 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
Competitive binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit (and macrolide-induced MLSB resistance) leads to pharmacodynamic antagonism.
What to do
Avoid combining the two for the same infection when possible; choose one agent according to susceptibility. If both are used, monitor clinical response.
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 Clindamycin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Clindamycin with Erythromycin ethylsuccinate?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Clindamycin and Erythromycin ethylsuccinate have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Erythromycin and clindamycin bind overlapping sites on the 50S ribosomal subunit, so in vitro they can compete and the combination may be antagonistic. The clinical significance is uncertain, but it could reduce antibacterial effect when both are given for the same infection.
How serious is the interaction between Clindamycin and Erythromycin ethylsuccinate?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid combining the two for the same infection when possible; choose one agent according to susceptibility. If both are used, monitor clinical response.
What other medicines interact with Clindamycin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Clindamycin with, for example, Atracurium, Cisatracurium, Microbiota. The full list is on the Clindamycin page.
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