Drug interactions
Erythromycin base + Insulin degludec
Severity: Minor
Erythromycin base and Insulin degludec: 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
Hypoglycemia has been reported when macrolides are given alongside glucose-lowering drugs, but the evidence for erythromycin with insulin is limited. Any effect is likely modest.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erythromycin base and Insulin degludec 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
Not well established; erythromycin may speed gastric emptying through motilin agonism, which could alter postprandial glucose.
What to do
Routine glucose self-monitoring is usually sufficient. Adjust the insulin dose only if glucose readings change.
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 Insulin degludec
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Erythromycin base with Insulin degludec?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Erythromycin base and Insulin degludec have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Hypoglycemia has been reported when macrolides are given alongside glucose-lowering drugs, but the evidence for erythromycin with insulin is limited. Any effect is likely modest.
How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin base and Insulin degludec?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Routine glucose self-monitoring is usually sufficient. Adjust the insulin dose only if glucose readings change.
What other medicines interact with Insulin degludec?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Insulin degludec with, for example, Alogliptin-pioglitazone, Ethanol, Glimepiride-pioglitazone. The full list is on the Insulin degludec page.
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