Beta-1 selective adrenergic blocker
Metoprolol with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Metoprolol (Metoprolol). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Metoprolol at 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, 200mg, 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 Beta-1 selective adrenergic blocker agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Metoprolol at 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, 200mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Metoprolol, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Metoprolol is co-administered. Adjusted 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, 200mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Metoprolol during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Metoprolol is metabolised and may need a temporary 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, 200mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Metoprolol regimen.
Will antibiotics make Metoprolol stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Metoprolol efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Metoprolol levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Metoprolol
More on Metoprolol
- With alcoholMetoprolol and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Metoprolol be taken with food?
- Side effectsMetoprolol side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideMetoprolol dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Metoprolol start working?
- DurationHow long does Metoprolol last?
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