Drug interactions
Erythromycin + Sunitinib
Severity: Major
Erythromycin and Sunitinib: 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 can increase sunitinib exposure, and both agents can prolong the QT interval. This raises the risk of toxicity including torsades de pointes.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erythromycin and Sunitinib 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; Sunitinib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Erythromycin inhibits CYP3A4-mediated sunitinib metabolism, with additive QT prolongation.
What to do
Use a non-CYP3A4-inhibiting, non-QT-prolonging antibiotic if possible. If combined, monitor ECG and electrolytes and consider a sunitinib 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
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 Sunitinib
- Adagrasib + Sunitinib Major
- Amiodarone + Sunitinib Major
- Amisulpride + Sunitinib Major
- Anagrelide + Sunitinib Major
- Apalutamide + Sunitinib Major
- Arsenic trioxide + Sunitinib Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Erythromycin with Sunitinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Erythromycin and Sunitinib 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 can increase sunitinib exposure, and both agents can prolong the QT interval. This raises the risk of toxicity including torsades de pointes.
How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin and Sunitinib?
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, non-QT-prolonging antibiotic if possible. If combined, monitor ECG and electrolytes and consider a sunitinib 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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