Short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA)
Albuterol with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Albuterol (Albuterol). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Albuterol at 100 mcg/puff, 2.5 mg/2.5 mL nebuliser, 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 Short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Albuterol at 100 mcg/puff, 2.5 mg/2.5 mL nebuliser.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Albuterol, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Albuterol is co-administered. Adjusted 100 mcg/puff, 2.5 mg/2.5 mL nebuliser dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Albuterol during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Albuterol is metabolised and may need a temporary 100 mcg/puff, 2.5 mg/2.5 mL nebuliser adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Albuterol regimen.
Will antibiotics make Albuterol stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Albuterol efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Albuterol levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Albuterol
More on Albuterol
- With alcoholAlbuterol and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Albuterol be taken with food?
- Side effectsAlbuterol side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideAlbuterol dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Albuterol start working?
- DurationHow long does Albuterol last?
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