Drug interactions
Docetaxel + Erythromycin
Severity: Major
Docetaxel and Erythromycin: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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 may increase docetaxel exposure and raise the risk of neutropenia, mucositis, neuropathy and fluid retention.
What this interaction means in plain words
Docetaxel and Erythromycin 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.
Docetaxel belongs to Oncology; Erythromycin belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Inhibition of CYP3A4 metabolism and P-glycoprotein efflux of docetaxel.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use where possible and choose a non-inhibiting antibiotic; if unavoidable, monitor blood counts closely and consider a docetaxel dose reduction.
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
- Docetaxel 20 mg/ml concentrate for solution for infusion - SmPC sections 4.3/4.5 (names the partner; "which induce, inhibit or are metabolised by (and thus may inhibit the enzyme competitively) cytochrome P450-3A such as ciclosporine, ketoconazole and erythromyc") — electronic medicines compendium (UK SmPC)
Other interactions of Erythromycin
- Conivaptan + Erythromycin Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Erythromycin Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine + Erythromycin Contraindicated
- Domperidone + Erythromycin Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Erythromycin Contraindicated
- Droperidol + Erythromycin Contraindicated
Other interactions of Docetaxel
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Docetaxel with Erythromycin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Docetaxel and Erythromycin 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 may increase docetaxel exposure and raise the risk of neutropenia, mucositis, neuropathy and fluid retention.
How serious is the interaction between Docetaxel and Erythromycin?
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 concurrent use where possible and choose a non-inhibiting antibiotic; if unavoidable, monitor blood counts closely and consider a docetaxel dose reduction.
What other medicines interact with Erythromycin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Erythromycin with, for example, Conivaptan, Dihydroergotamine intranasal, Dihydroergotamine. The full list is on the Erythromycin page.
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