What medicines cannot be taken with erythromycin? Full analysis of drug interactions
Erythromycin is a commonly used antibiotic that belongs to the macrolide group and is widely used to treat bacterial infections. However, taking erythromycin with certain medications may cause serious interactions that may affect the effectiveness of the medication or increase the risk of side effects. The following are contraindications and precautions for erythromycin and other drugs.
1. Interactions between erythromycin and other drugs

| drug class | specific drugs | interaction mechanism | possible consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| antiarrhythmic drugs | Amiodarone, quinidine, sotalol | Erythromycin inhibits liver metabolic enzymes and increases blood concentration | Increased risk of cardiac arrhythmias |
| anticoagulants | warfarin | Erythromycin enhances anticoagulant effect | increased risk of bleeding |
| antifungal drugs | Ketoconazole, itraconazole | Mutually inhibit metabolism and increase blood drug concentration | Increased risk of hepatotoxicity |
| calcium channel blockers | verapamil, diltiazem | Erythromycin inhibits metabolism and increases blood concentration | Hypotension, bradycardia |
| statins | Simvastatin, Lovastatin | Erythromycin inhibits metabolism and increases blood concentration | Increased risk of rhabdomyolysis |
2. Interactions between erythromycin and food and beverages
In addition to medications, taking erythromycin with certain foods or drinks may affect its absorption or effects:
| food/drink | interaction | Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| grapefruit juice | Inhibit erythromycin metabolism and increase blood concentration | Avoid taking at the same time |
| alcohol | Increases the burden on the liver and may aggravate side effects | Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine |
| dairy products | Calcium ions may affect erythromycin absorption | Take 2 hours apart |
3. Precautions when using erythromycin
1.Use with caution in patients with abnormal liver function:Erythromycin is mainly metabolized in the liver, and the dose should be adjusted in patients with hepatic insufficiency.
2.People with renal insufficiency:Although erythromycin is primarily metabolized by the liver, it should be used with caution in patients with severe renal insufficiency.
3.Pregnant and lactating women:Erythromycin can pass through the placenta and breast milk and should be used under the guidance of a doctor.
4.allergic reaction:It is contraindicated in those allergic to erythromycin or other macrolide antibiotics.
5.Medication time:Erythromycin enteric-coated tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be broken or chewed. It is best to take them 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
4. Common side effects of erythromycin
Although erythromycin is a relatively safe antibiotic, the following side effects may occur:
| system | Common side effects |
|---|---|
| digestive system | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain |
| Liver | Abnormal liver function, jaundice |
| allergic reaction | Rash, itching, anaphylactic shock (rare) |
| Others | Tinnitus and hearing loss (at large doses) |
5. How to use erythromycin safely
1.Tell your doctor about all medications you take:Before starting treatment with erythromycin, inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements.
2.Follow your doctor’s advice:Strictly follow the dosage and course of treatment prescribed by the doctor. Do not increase or decrease the dosage or extend the course of treatment on your own.
3.Monitor for adverse reactions:If symptoms such as severe diarrhea, jaundice, persistent nausea and vomiting occur, seek medical attention immediately.
4.Storage conditions:Erythromycin should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
5.Complete treatment:Even if symptoms improve, the entire course of treatment should be completed to avoid the development of bacterial resistance.
Erythromycin is an effective antibiotic but has many interactions with other medications. Understanding these interactions can help patients use their medications safely and avoid potential risks. If you have any questions, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist.
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