Loop diuretic
Furosemide with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Furosemide (Furosemide). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Furosemide at 20mg, 40mg, 100mg, 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 Loop diuretic agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Furosemide at 20mg, 40mg, 100mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Furosemide, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Furosemide is co-administered. Adjusted 20mg, 40mg, 100mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Furosemide during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Furosemide is metabolised and may need a temporary 20mg, 40mg, 100mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Furosemide regimen.
Will antibiotics make Furosemide stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Furosemide efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Furosemide levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Furosemide
More on Furosemide
- With alcoholFurosemide and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Furosemide be taken with food?
- Side effectsFurosemide side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideFurosemide dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Furosemide start working?
- DurationHow long does Furosemide last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.