Drug interactions
Erythromycin base + Finasteride
Severity: Minor
Erythromycin base and Finasteride: minor 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
Finasteride is metabolized by CYP3A4, and erythromycin inhibits this enzyme. Finasteride levels may increase modestly, but its wide safety margin makes clinically important effects unlikely.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erythromycin base and Finasteride have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
CYP3A4 inhibition by erythromycin reduces finasteride metabolism.
What to do
No dose adjustment is usually needed. Be aware of finasteride adverse effects during prolonged macrolide therapy.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Finasteride
- Finasteride + Levoketoconazole Moderate
- Finasteride + Nefazodone Moderate
- Finasteride + Rifampin Moderate
- Finasteride + St john's wort Moderate
- Amobarbital + Finasteride Minor
- Aprepitant + Finasteride Minor
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Erythromycin base with Finasteride?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Erythromycin base and Finasteride have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Finasteride is metabolized by CYP3A4, and erythromycin inhibits this enzyme. Finasteride levels may increase modestly, but its wide safety margin makes clinically important effects unlikely.
How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin base and Finasteride?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No dose adjustment is usually needed. Be aware of finasteride adverse effects during prolonged macrolide therapy.
What other medicines interact with Finasteride?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Finasteride with, for example, Levoketoconazole, Nefazodone, Rifampin. The full list is on the Finasteride page.
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