Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
Paroxetine with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Paroxetine (Paroxetine). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Paroxetine at 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 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 Paroxetine at 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Paroxetine, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Paroxetine is co-administered. Adjusted 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Paroxetine during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Paroxetine is metabolised and may need a temporary 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Paroxetine regimen.
Will antibiotics make Paroxetine stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Paroxetine efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Paroxetine levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Paroxetine
More on Paroxetine
- With alcoholParoxetine and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Paroxetine be taken with food?
- Side effectsParoxetine side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideParoxetine dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Paroxetine start working?
- DurationHow long does Paroxetine last?
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