Drug interactions
Erythromycin + Fingolimod
Severity: Major
Erythromycin and Fingolimod: 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
Fingolimod can cause bradycardia and may prolong the QT interval, while erythromycin also prolongs QT. Combined use increases arrhythmia risk, particularly at initiation of fingolimod.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erythromycin and Fingolimod 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 belongs to Anti Bacterial; Fingolimod belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation with fingolimod-induced bradycardia.
What to do
Avoid starting fingolimod while on erythromycin where possible and use a non-QT-prolonging antibiotic. If used together, monitor ECG and heart rate and correct electrolytes.
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 Erythromycin
- Conivaptan + Erythromycin Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Erythromycin Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine + Erythromycin Contraindicated
- Domperidone + Erythromycin Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Erythromycin Contraindicated
- Droperidol + Erythromycin Contraindicated
Other interactions of Fingolimod
- Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live + Fingolimod Contraindicated
- Bcg vaccine live + Fingolimod Contraindicated
- Fingolimod + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Fingolimod + Ponesimod Contraindicated
- Fingolimod + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Fingolimod + Siponimod Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Erythromycin with Fingolimod?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Erythromycin and Fingolimod 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. Fingolimod can cause bradycardia and may prolong the QT interval, while erythromycin also prolongs QT. Combined use increases arrhythmia risk, particularly at initiation of fingolimod.
How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin and Fingolimod?
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 starting fingolimod while on erythromycin where possible and use a non-QT-prolonging antibiotic. If used together, monitor ECG and heart rate and correct electrolytes.
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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