Cymbalta with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Cymbalta (Duloxetine). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Duloxetine at 20mg, 30mg, 60mg, 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 Anti-Depressants agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Duloxetine at 20mg, 30mg, 60mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Duloxetine, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Cymbalta is co-administered. Adjusted 20mg, 30mg, 60mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cymbalta during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Duloxetine is metabolised and may need a temporary 20mg, 30mg, 60mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Cymbalta regimen.
Will antibiotics make Cymbalta stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Cymbalta efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Duloxetine levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
More on Cymbalta
- With alcoholCymbalta and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Cymbalta be taken with food?
- Side effectsCymbalta side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideCymbalta dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Cymbalta start working?
- DurationHow long does Cymbalta last?
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