AndroGel with antibiotics: interactions and safety

Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as AndroGel (Testosterone). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Testosterone at 1%, 1.62%, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.

Common antibiotic interactions

Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Hormones and Birth Control agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Testosterone at 1%, 1.62%.

Practical guidance

According to the prescribing information for Testosterone, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before AndroGel is co-administered. Adjusted 1%, 1.62% dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take AndroGel during an antibiotic course? ▾

For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Testosterone is metabolised and may need a temporary 1%, 1.62% adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing AndroGel regimen.

Will antibiotics make AndroGel stop working? ▾

Most antibiotics do not affect AndroGel efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Testosterone levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.

More on AndroGel

The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.