Drug interactions
Docetaxel + Erythromycin base
Severity: Major
Docetaxel and Erythromycin base: 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
Erythromycin inhibits docetaxel metabolism and may raise its exposure. This increases the risk of neutropenia, mucositis and other toxicity.
What this interaction means in plain words
Docetaxel and Erythromycin base 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
Inhibition of CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein reduces docetaxel clearance.
What to do
Use a non-CYP3A4-inhibiting antibiotic such as azithromycin where possible. If it is unavoidable, monitor closely and reduce the docetaxel dose as needed.
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 Docetaxel
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Docetaxel with Erythromycin base?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Docetaxel and Erythromycin base 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. Erythromycin inhibits docetaxel metabolism and may raise its exposure. This increases the risk of neutropenia, mucositis and other toxicity.
How serious is the interaction between Docetaxel and Erythromycin base?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use a non-CYP3A4-inhibiting antibiotic such as azithromycin where possible. If it is unavoidable, monitor closely and reduce the docetaxel dose as needed.
What other medicines interact with Docetaxel?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Docetaxel with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Atazanavir, Belatacept. The full list is on the Docetaxel page.
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