Desyrel with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Desyrel (Trazodone). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Trazodone at 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg, 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 Trazodone at 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Trazodone, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Desyrel is co-administered. Adjusted 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Desyrel during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Trazodone is metabolised and may need a temporary 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Desyrel regimen.
Will antibiotics make Desyrel stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Desyrel efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Trazodone levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
More on Desyrel
- With alcoholDesyrel and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Desyrel be taken with food?
- Side effectsDesyrel side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideDesyrel dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Desyrel start working?
- DurationHow long does Desyrel last?
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