Neuraminidase inhibitor
Oseltamivir with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Oseltamivir (Oseltamivir). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Oseltamivir at 30mg, 45mg, 75mg, 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 Neuraminidase inhibitor agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Oseltamivir at 30mg, 45mg, 75mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Oseltamivir, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Oseltamivir is co-administered. Adjusted 30mg, 45mg, 75mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Oseltamivir during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Oseltamivir is metabolised and may need a temporary 30mg, 45mg, 75mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Oseltamivir regimen.
Will antibiotics make Oseltamivir stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Oseltamivir efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Oseltamivir levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Oseltamivir
More on Oseltamivir
- With alcoholOseltamivir and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Oseltamivir be taken with food?
- Side effectsOseltamivir side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideOseltamivir dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Oseltamivir start working?
- DurationHow long does Oseltamivir last?
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