Drug interactions
Erythromycin stearate + Paclitaxel
Severity: Moderate
Erythromycin stearate 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-glycoprotein, both of which contribute to paclitaxel clearance. Exposure to paclitaxel may rise, increasing the risk of myelosuppression and neuropathy. The effect is generally modest because CYP2C8 is the main route of paclitaxel metabolism.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erythromycin stearate 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
Inhibition of CYP3A4 metabolism and P-glycoprotein efflux of paclitaxel by erythromycin.
What to do
Monitor blood counts and signs of neuropathy; consider an alternative antibiotic such as azithromycin when feasible.
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 stearate with Paclitaxel?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Erythromycin stearate 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-glycoprotein, both of which contribute to paclitaxel clearance. Exposure to paclitaxel may rise, increasing the risk of myelosuppression and neuropathy. The effect is generally modest because CYP2C8 is the main route of paclitaxel metabolism.
How serious is the interaction between Erythromycin stearate 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 blood counts and signs of neuropathy; consider an alternative antibiotic such as azithromycin when feasible.
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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