Drug interactions
Erythromycin + Triazolam
Severity: Major
Erythromycin and Triazolam: 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 markedly increases triazolam exposure and prolongs its half-life. This leads to excessive sedation, psychomotor impairment, amnesia and potentially respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erythromycin and Triazolam 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-mediated triazolam metabolism by erythromycin.
What to do
Avoid if possible by using a non-CYP3A4-dependent hypnotic such as temazepam or a different antibiotic. If coadministered, reduce the triazolam dose and monitor sedation.
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 Triazolam?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Erythromycin and Triazolam 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 markedly increases triazolam exposure and prolongs its half-life. This leads to excessive sedation, psychomotor impairment, amnesia and potentially respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin and Triazolam?
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 if possible by using a non-CYP3A4-dependent hypnotic such as temazepam or a different antibiotic. If coadministered, reduce the triazolam dose and monitor sedation.
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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