Drug interactions
Erythromycin stearate + Gemifloxacin
Severity: Major
Erythromycin stearate and Gemifloxacin: 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 gemifloxacin each prolong the QT interval. Used together they may cause additive prolongation and increase the risk of torsades de pointes.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erythromycin stearate and Gemifloxacin 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 potassium channel blockade delaying cardiac repolarization.
What to do
Avoid combining the two antibacterials unless there is no alternative. If both are needed, monitor ECG and correct potassium and magnesium.
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 Gemifloxacin
- Arsenic trioxide + Gemifloxacin Contraindicated
- Dofetilide + Gemifloxacin Contraindicated
- Gemifloxacin + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Gemifloxacin + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Gemifloxacin + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Gemifloxacin + Vandetanib Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Erythromycin stearate with Gemifloxacin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Erythromycin stearate and Gemifloxacin 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 gemifloxacin each prolong the QT interval. Used together they may cause additive prolongation and increase the risk of torsades de pointes.
How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin stearate and Gemifloxacin?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid combining the two antibacterials unless there is no alternative. If both are needed, monitor ECG and correct potassium and magnesium.
What other medicines interact with Gemifloxacin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Gemifloxacin with, for example, Arsenic trioxide, Dofetilide, Ibutilide. The full list is on the Gemifloxacin page.
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