Alprazolam and Clarithromycin interaction
Alprazolam and Clarithromycin: both prescribing labels flag this combination with the strongest language, such as a contraindication, a boxed warning, or an instruction to avoid it.
Do not combine without a prescriber's guidance. The label language below is the strongest FDA uses.
What the FDA labels say
From the Alprazolam (Alprazolam XR) label · effective 2025-02-11
• taking strong cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), except ritonavir [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) , Warnings and Precautions (5.5) , Drug Interactions (7.1) ] .
• Concomitant use with strong cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) inhibitors, except ritonavir.
Strong CYP3A Inhibitors Alprazolam XR is contraindicated in patients receiving strong inhibitors of CYP3A such as azole antifungal agents [see Contraindications (4) ] .
Prevention or management Concomitant use of alprazolam XR with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor (except ritonavir) is contraindicated [see Contraindications (4) , Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] .
Prevention or management Avoid use and consider appropriate dose reduction when alprazolam XR is coadministered with a moderate or weak CYP3A inhibitor [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] .
From the Clarithromycin label · effective 2026-01-01
Alprazolam Triazolam Triazolam, Alprazolam: Caution and appropriate dose adjustments should be considered when triazolam or alprazolam is co-administered with clarithromycin.
Benzodiazepines: Increased sedation and prolongation of sedation have been reported with concomitant administration of clarithromycin and triazolobenzodiazepines, such as triazolam and midazolam [see Drug Interactions ( 7 )] .
Triazolobenzodiazepines and Other Related Benzodiazepines: Midazolam Use With Caution Midazolam: When oral midazolam is co‑administered with clarithromycin, dose adjustments may be necessary and possible prolongation and intensity of effect should be anticipated [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 ) and Pharmacokinetics ( 12.3 )] .
In postmarketing experience, erythromycin has been reported to decrease the clearance of triazolam and midazolam, and thus, may increase the pharmacologic effect of these benzodiazepines.
Temazepam Nitrazepam Lorazepam No Dose Adjustment Temazepam, Nitrazepam, Lorazepam: For benzodiazepines which are not metabolized by CYP3A (e.g., temazepam, nitrazepam, lorazepam), a clinically important interaction with clarithromycin is unlikely.
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Open in the checkerNot medical advice. Interaction Checker quotes FDA label text and NIH fact sheets. Whether an interaction matters for you depends on doses, timing, kidney and liver function, and other conditions. Confirm with a pharmacist or prescriber.