Drug interactions
Erythromycin stearate + Levofloxacin
Severity: Major
Erythromycin stearate and Levofloxacin: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: EMA 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
Both levofloxacin and erythromycin can prolong the QT interval, so combined use increases the risk of torsades de pointes. The risk rises with electrolyte disturbance, heart disease or other QT-prolonging drugs.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erythromycin stearate and Levofloxacin 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 hERG potassium channel blockade delaying cardiac repolarization.
What to do
Avoid the combination where an alternative exists. If both are needed, check an ECG and electrolytes and monitor the QTc.
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 Levofloxacin
- Dronedarone + Levofloxacin Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Levofloxacin Contraindicated
- Levofloxacin + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Levofloxacin + Vandetanib Contraindicated
- Levofloxacin + Ziprasidone Contraindicated
- Adagrasib + Levofloxacin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Erythromycin stearate with Levofloxacin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Erythromycin stearate and Levofloxacin 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. Both levofloxacin and erythromycin can prolong the QT interval, so combined use increases the risk of torsades de pointes. The risk rises with electrolyte disturbance, heart disease or other QT-prolonging drugs.
How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin stearate and Levofloxacin?
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 the combination where an alternative exists. If both are needed, check an ECG and electrolytes and monitor the QTc.
What other medicines interact with Levofloxacin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Levofloxacin with, for example, Dronedarone, Ibutilide, Thioridazine. The full list is on the Levofloxacin page.
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