Drug interactions
Erythromycin base + Rifaximin
Severity: Minor
Erythromycin base and Rifaximin: 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
Erythromycin is a P-glycoprotein inhibitor and may slightly increase rifaximin absorption. Because rifaximin has minimal systemic uptake, the effect is usually of little consequence.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erythromycin base and Rifaximin 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
P-glycoprotein inhibition reducing rifaximin efflux.
What to do
No adjustment is usually needed. Be aware in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
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 Rifaximin
- Cholera vaccine + Rifaximin Major
- Microbiota + Rifaximin Major
- Amiodarone + Rifaximin Moderate
- Bcg intravesical live + Rifaximin Moderate
- Cyclosporin + Rifaximin Moderate
- Dronedarone + Rifaximin Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Erythromycin base with Rifaximin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Erythromycin base and Rifaximin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Erythromycin is a P-glycoprotein inhibitor and may slightly increase rifaximin absorption. Because rifaximin has minimal systemic uptake, the effect is usually of little consequence.
How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin base and Rifaximin?
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 adjustment is usually needed. Be aware in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
What other medicines interact with Rifaximin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Rifaximin with, for example, Cholera vaccine, Microbiota, Amiodarone. The full list is on the Rifaximin page.
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