Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
Fluoxetine with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Fluoxetine (Fluoxetine). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Fluoxetine at 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, 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 Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Fluoxetine at 10mg, 20mg, 40mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Fluoxetine, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Fluoxetine is co-administered. Adjusted 10mg, 20mg, 40mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fluoxetine during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Fluoxetine is metabolised and may need a temporary 10mg, 20mg, 40mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Fluoxetine regimen.
Will antibiotics make Fluoxetine stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Fluoxetine efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Fluoxetine levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Fluoxetine
More on Fluoxetine
- With alcoholFluoxetine and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Fluoxetine be taken with food?
- Side effectsFluoxetine side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideFluoxetine dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Fluoxetine start working?
- DurationHow long does Fluoxetine last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.