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