Drug Interaction Report

Clarithromycin may increase the blood levels of colchicine to dangerous levels, increasing the risk of serious side effects that can affect your muscles, blood cells, nervous system, and multiple organs including the liver and kidneys. You may need a lower dose of colchicine if you are currently using clarithromycin or have used it within the last 14 days. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Your doctor may already be aware of the risks, but has determined that this is the best course of treatment for you and has taken appropriate precautions to help prevent potential complications. Let your doctor know if you experience abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, muscle pain, weakness, fatigue, and/or numbness or tingling in your hands and feet, as these may be early symptoms of colchicine toxicity. You may not be able to take these medications together if you have liver or kidney disease. 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.

Drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice can increase your blood levels of colchicine to dangerous levels. You should avoid the consumption of grapefruit or grapefruit juice during treatment with colchicine. Let your doctor know if you experience abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, muscle pain, weakness, fatigue, and/or numbness or tingling in your hands and feet, as these may be early symptoms of colchicine toxicity.

Information for this minor interaction is available on the professional version.