Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)
Duloxetine with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Duloxetine (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 Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) 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 Duloxetine 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 Duloxetine 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 Duloxetine regimen.
Will antibiotics make Duloxetine stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Duloxetine 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.
Products containing Duloxetine
More on Duloxetine
- With alcoholDuloxetine and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Duloxetine be taken with food?
- Side effectsDuloxetine side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideDuloxetine dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Duloxetine start working?
- DurationHow long does Duloxetine last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.