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Drug interactions

Erythromycin lactobionate + Trimipramine

Severity: Major

Erythromycin lactobionate and Trimipramine: 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

Intravenous erythromycin prolongs the QT interval, as does trimipramine, and erythromycin may also raise trimipramine levels. Risk of torsades de pointes is increased.

What this interaction means in plain words

Erythromycin lactobionate and Trimipramine 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 lactobionate belongs to Anti Bacterial; Trimipramine belongs to Central Nervous System.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive QT prolongation, with CYP3A4 inhibition by erythromycin.

What to do

Use a non-macrolide alternative where possible. If used, monitor ECG and electrolytes and watch for tricyclic toxicity.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Erythromycin lactobionate with Trimipramine?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Erythromycin lactobionate and Trimipramine 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. Intravenous erythromycin prolongs the QT interval, as does trimipramine, and erythromycin may also raise trimipramine levels. Risk of torsades de pointes is increased.

How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin lactobionate and Trimipramine?

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 a non-macrolide alternative where possible. If used, monitor ECG and electrolytes and watch for tricyclic toxicity.

What other medicines interact with Trimipramine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Trimipramine with, for example, Disopyramide, Dofetilide, Ibutilide. The full list is on the Trimipramine page.

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