Drug interactions
Erythromycin ethylsuccinate + Paclitaxel
Severity: Moderate
Erythromycin ethylsuccinate and Paclitaxel: moderate 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 inhibits CYP3A4 and P-gp and may increase paclitaxel exposure. Paclitaxel is mainly cleared via CYP2C8 with a minor CYP3A4 role, so the effect is probably modest.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erythromycin ethylsuccinate and Paclitaxel can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibition by erythromycin reduces paclitaxel clearance.
What to do
Monitor for neutropenia and neuropathy. Consider a non-macrolide antibiotic such as a non-CYP3A4 inhibitor if suitable.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Paclitaxel
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Erythromycin ethylsuccinate with Paclitaxel?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Erythromycin ethylsuccinate and Paclitaxel can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Erythromycin inhibits CYP3A4 and P-gp and may increase paclitaxel exposure. Paclitaxel is mainly cleared via CYP2C8 with a minor CYP3A4 role, so the effect is probably modest.
How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin ethylsuccinate and Paclitaxel?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor for neutropenia and neuropathy. Consider a non-macrolide antibiotic such as a non-CYP3A4 inhibitor if suitable.
What other medicines interact with Paclitaxel?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Paclitaxel with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Cobicistat, Cyclosporin. The full list is on the Paclitaxel page.
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