Drug Interaction Report

Using buprenorphine together with clarithromycin can increase the risk of an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious and potentially life-threatening, although it is a relatively rare side effect. You may be more susceptible if you have a heart condition called congenital long QT syndrome, other cardiac diseases, conduction abnormalities, or electrolyte disturbances (for example, magnesium or potassium loss due to severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting). In addition, clarithromycin may increase the blood levels of buprenorphine. This can increase the risk and/or severity of other side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, difficulty concentrating, and impairment in thinking and judgment. In severe cases, low blood pressure, respiratory distress, fainting, coma, or even death may occur. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. You should seek immediate medical attention if you develop sudden or excessive drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, confusion, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, and/or shallow or difficult breathing during treatment with these medications. Do not drink alcohol during treatment with buprenorphine, and do not use more than the dose prescribed by your doctor. Also, avoid activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how these medications affect you, and use caution when getting up from a sitting or lying position. 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.

Do not use alcohol or medications that contain alcohol while you are receiving treatment with buprenorphine. This may increase nervous system side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, difficulty concentrating, and impairment in thinking and judgment. In severe cases, low blood pressure, respiratory distress, fainting, coma, or even death may occur. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions on how to take this or other medications you are prescribed. Do not use more than the recommended dose of buprenorphine, and avoid activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medication affects you. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medication without first talking to your doctor.

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