Drug interactions
Salsalate + Vancomycin
Severity: Minor
Salsalate and Vancomycin: minor 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
Salsalate is hydrolyzed to salicylic acid, which may reduce vancomycin renal clearance and raise serum levels, mainly in neonates. The clinical significance is uncertain.
What this interaction means in plain words
Salsalate and Vancomycin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Possible reduction in vancomycin renal clearance by salicylate; mechanism not firmly established.
What to do
Monitor vancomycin trough levels and renal function when used together and adjust the vancomycin dose.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Vancomycin
- Amikacin + Vancomycin Major
- Bacitracin + Vancomycin Major
- Capreomycin + Vancomycin Major
- Cephaloridine + Vancomycin Major
- Cidofovir + Vancomycin Major
- Cisplatin + Vancomycin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Salsalate with Vancomycin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Salsalate and Vancomycin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Salsalate is hydrolyzed to salicylic acid, which may reduce vancomycin renal clearance and raise serum levels, mainly in neonates. The clinical significance is uncertain.
How serious is the interaction between Salsalate and Vancomycin?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor vancomycin trough levels and renal function when used together and adjust the vancomycin dose.
What other medicines interact with Vancomycin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Vancomycin with, for example, Amikacin, Bacitracin, Capreomycin. The full list is on the Vancomycin page.
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