Clarithromycin and Erythromycin interaction

Clarithromycin and Erythromycin: the Clarithromycin prescribing label flag this combination with the strongest language, such as a contraindication, a boxed warning, or an instruction to avoid it.

Major

Do not combine without a prescriber's guidance. The label language below is the strongest FDA uses.

What the FDA labels say

From the Clarithromycin label · effective 2026-01-01

Major

Hypersensitivity Clarithromycin tablets are contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to clarithromycin, erythromycin, or any of the macrolide antibacterial drugs [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] .

Contraindicationsnames ErythromycinView label on DailyMed
Moderate

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.

Drug interactionsnames ErythromycinView label on DailyMed
Minor

Clarithromycin and other macrolides are known to inhibit CYP3A and Pgp.

Drug interactionsby drug classView label on DailyMed
Minor

Clarithromycin and other macrolides are known to inhibit CYP3A.

Drug interactionsby drug classView label on DailyMed

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Not 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.