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Drug interactions

Erythromycin + Vinorelbine

Severity: Major

Erythromycin and Vinorelbine: major interaction.

Last updated

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 vinorelbine exposure through CYP3A4 inhibition, potentially worsening neutropenia and neurotoxicity.

What this interaction means in plain words

Erythromycin and Vinorelbine 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; Vinorelbine belongs to Oncology.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

CYP3A4 inhibition by erythromycin reduces vinorelbine metabolism.

What to do

Prefer a non-inhibiting antibiotic. If co-administered, monitor neutrophil counts and for neuropathy and constipation.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Erythromycin with Vinorelbine?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Erythromycin and Vinorelbine 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 vinorelbine exposure through CYP3A4 inhibition, potentially worsening neutropenia and neurotoxicity.

How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin and Vinorelbine?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Prefer a non-inhibiting antibiotic. If co-administered, monitor neutrophil counts and for neuropathy and constipation.

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.

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

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