Drug interactions
Erythromycin + Romidepsin
Severity: Major
Erythromycin and Romidepsin: 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
Romidepsin is metabolized by CYP3A4, so erythromycin may increase its levels and toxicity, including myelosuppression and QT effects. Erythromycin also prolongs QT interval itself.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erythromycin and Romidepsin 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
Erythromycin inhibits CYP3A4 metabolism of romidepsin, with additive QT effects.
What to do
Avoid the combination and use a non-CYP3A4-inhibiting antibiotic. If unavoidable, monitor ECG, electrolytes and blood counts.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Erythromycin with Romidepsin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Erythromycin and Romidepsin 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. Romidepsin is metabolized by CYP3A4, so erythromycin may increase its levels and toxicity, including myelosuppression and QT effects. Erythromycin also prolongs QT interval itself.
How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin and Romidepsin?
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 and use a non-CYP3A4-inhibiting antibiotic. If unavoidable, monitor ECG, electrolytes and blood counts.
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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