Drug interactions
Erythromycin ethylsuccinate + Ofloxacin
Severity: Major
Erythromycin ethylsuccinate and Ofloxacin: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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 and ofloxacin can each prolong the QT interval, so combined use increases the chance of torsades de pointes. The risk is higher with electrolyte disturbance, bradycardia or other QT-prolonging drugs.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erythromycin ethylsuccinate and Ofloxacin 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
Additive cardiac potassium channel blockade causing QT prolongation.
What to do
Use an alternative antibiotic when practical. If both are required, check ECG, potassium and magnesium and watch for palpitations or syncope.
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 Ofloxacin
- Ofloxacin + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Adagrasib + Ofloxacin Major
- Amiodarone + Ofloxacin Major
- Amisulpride + Ofloxacin Major
- Anagrelide + Ofloxacin Major
- Arsenic trioxide + Ofloxacin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Erythromycin ethylsuccinate with Ofloxacin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Erythromycin ethylsuccinate and Ofloxacin 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 and ofloxacin can each prolong the QT interval, so combined use increases the chance of torsades de pointes. The risk is higher with electrolyte disturbance, bradycardia or other QT-prolonging drugs.
How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin ethylsuccinate and Ofloxacin?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use an alternative antibiotic when practical. If both are required, check ECG, potassium and magnesium and watch for palpitations or syncope.
What other medicines interact with Ofloxacin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ofloxacin with, for example, Thioridazine, Adagrasib, Amiodarone. The full list is on the Ofloxacin page.
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