Can I take Clarithromycin and Rosuvastatin together?

Why this happens

Clarithromycin blocks a specific protein (OATP1B1) that helps the liver take up rosuvastatin. It also interferes with how the body breaks down the medicine. This causes the statin to build up to potentially toxic levels in the bloodstream.

What you should do

You should speak to your doctor before taking these together. They may suggest temporarily stopping rosuvastatin while you finish the course of clarithromycin, or they may prescribe a lower dose of the statin. If you are already taking both and experience unusual muscle pain or dark-coloured urine, stop taking the statin and contact your doctor immediately.

Important precautions

Drug-drug interaction (Myopathy/Rhabdomyolysis)

Do not take these medicines together. Clarithromycin significantly increases the levels of rosuvastatin in your blood, which can cause severe muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis) and kidney damage. Your doctor must pause the statin while you take the antibiotic.

Pregnancy

Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. Use effective contraception while taking it and stop immediately if you think you are pregnant.

Heart Rhythm Disorders (Long QT)

This medicine can affect your heart rhythm. Seek immediate medical help if you experience palpitations, severe dizziness, or fainting, especially if you have a history of heart problems or are taking other medicines that affect the heart.

Food and drink warnings

Grapefruit juice

While rosuvastatin is less affected by grapefruit juice than other statins (like simvastatin), drinking very large quantities (more than 1.2 litres daily) may increase the levels of the medicine in your blood, potentially increasing the risk of side effects. Moderate consumption is generally considered safe.

Alcohol

You should avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol while taking rosuvastatin. Regular high alcohol intake increases the risk of liver problems and muscle side effects associated with this medication.

Food (General)

Clarithromycin can be taken with or without food. However, if you find that the medicine settles heavily on your stomach or causes nausea, taking it with a meal or snack can help reduce these side effects.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.