Drug interactions
Colistin + Neomycin po
Severity: Major
Colistin and Neomycin po: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: Health Canada product monograph
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
Both drugs are nephrotoxic and ototoxic, and oral neomycin can be absorbed, especially with impaired gut integrity or renal failure. Combined exposure increases the risk of kidney injury and hearing loss.
What this interaction means in plain words
Colistin and Neomycin po 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.
Why it happens
Additive nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity from aminoglycoside and polymyxin effects on renal tubular and cochlear cells.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible; if used, monitor serum creatinine, neomycin levels if available, and hearing or vestibular symptoms.
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 Colistin
- Colistin + Polymyxin b Contraindicated
- Amikacin + Colistin Major
- Amphotericin b deoxycholate + Colistin Major
- Amphotericin b + Colistin Major
- Atracurium + Colistin Major
- Bacitracin + Colistin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Colistin with Neomycin po?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Colistin and Neomycin po 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. Both drugs are nephrotoxic and ototoxic, and oral neomycin can be absorbed, especially with impaired gut integrity or renal failure. Combined exposure increases the risk of kidney injury and hearing loss.
How serious is the interaction between Colistin and Neomycin po?
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; if used, monitor serum creatinine, neomycin levels if available, and hearing or vestibular symptoms.
What other medicines interact with Colistin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Colistin with, for example, Polymyxin b, Amikacin, Amphotericin b deoxycholate. The full list is on the Colistin page.
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