Drug Interaction Report

Telithromycin may significantly increase the blood levels of sirolimus. This may increase the risk of serious side effects such as infections; lymphoma and other cancers; diabetes; kidney problems; various lung disorders; high blood pressure; high cholesterol and triglycerides; swelling of the face, eyes or mouth; and water retention, especially in the hands, feet, and various tissues such as the sac around the heart or lungs. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact, or you may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring to safely use both medications. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs and symptoms of infection such as fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, blood in phlegm, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, and pain or burning during urination. You should also seek medical attention if you experience nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, increased or decreased urination, sudden weight gain or weight loss, fluid retention, swelling, shortness of breath, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, confusion, and irregular heart rhythm, as these may be signs and symptoms of kidney problems. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with sirolimus and could lead to potentially dangerous effects. Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while you are taking sirolimus. Also, you should preferably take sirolimus at least one hour before eating. If you do take it with food, you should take it each time with food to avoid changes in sirolimus levels. The oral liquid form of sirolimus must be mixed with water or orange juice only. Do not use grapefruit juice to mix this medication.