Dareus asked
Is there an interaction between azithromycin and Symbicort?
At a glance
- There is a potential interaction between azithromycin and budesonide (one ingredient in Symbicort) since both can increase the risk of QT prolongation. However, the increased risk is relatively minor since budesonide is inhaled and the medications are commonly used together.
Answer
There is an interaction documented between Symbicort and azithromycin, although you will often see these medications used together. The specifics of the interaction are described in the next section.
Azithromycin - Budesonide Interaction
Both azithromycin and budesonide (a component of Symbicort), can cause a type of cardiac arrhythmia known as QT prolongation.[1][2]
Due to a possible risk for QT prolongation between the two drugs, they should be used cautiously in combination and special care must be taken if someone has had a history of arrhythmia or heart problems.
Now, I mentioned you will see them used together often. Azithromycin is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics for infections and is often dispensed in pharmacies as a 'ZPAK'. If a patient is taking Symbicort, or any other drug that can cause QT prolongation, your pharmacist may contact your doctor or have a discussion with you regarding the potential interaction.
If there is no history of heart problems or issues with the drugs in the past, the combination is often authorized for use together.
Additionally, since Symbicort is inhaled and the main site of action is the lungs, the risk of interaction is decreased further.[3]
References
- ^ Azithromycin, cardiovascular risks, QTc interval prolongation, torsade de pointes, and regulatory issues: A narrative review based on the study of case reports. PubMed
- ^ Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma Expert Panel
- ^ Risk of Cardiovascular Events Associated with Inhaled Corticosteroid Treatment in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Meta-Analysis. PubMed
