HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin)
Rosuvastatin with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Rosuvastatin (Rosuvastatin). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Rosuvastatin at 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 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 HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin) agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Rosuvastatin at 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Rosuvastatin, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Rosuvastatin is co-administered. Adjusted 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Rosuvastatin during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Rosuvastatin is metabolised and may need a temporary 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Rosuvastatin regimen.
Will antibiotics make Rosuvastatin stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Rosuvastatin efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Rosuvastatin levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Rosuvastatin
More on Rosuvastatin
- With alcoholRosuvastatin and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Rosuvastatin be taken with food?
- Side effectsRosuvastatin side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideRosuvastatin dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Rosuvastatin start working?
- DurationHow long does Rosuvastatin last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.