Drug Interactions: Medications to Avoid While Taking Either

Avoid combining azithromycin or rocephin with certain medications to prevent potential adverse effects. This is especially crucial for medications metabolized by the liver.

Specifically, ergotamine and dihydroergotamine should not be taken concurrently with azithromycin due to increased risk of ergotism. Simultaneous use can cause severe vasoconstriction.

For both azithromycin and rocephin, caution is advised when using anticoagulants like warfarin. Close monitoring of INR levels is necessary as these antibiotics can alter blood clotting.

Additionally, be mindful of potential interactions with other antibiotics. Concurrent use of azithromycin with other macrolides might result in increased serum concentrations. Rocephin, a cephalosporin, can interact with aminoglycosides, potentially reducing the effectiveness of both.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting either azithromycin or rocephin if you are currently taking:

Medication Class Specific Examples Potential Interaction
Anticoagulants Warfarin, heparin Increased bleeding risk
Ergot alkaloids Ergotamine, dihydroergotamine Ergotism (vasoconstriction)
Digoxin Digoxin Increased digoxin levels
Theophylline Theophylline Increased theophylline levels
Aminoglycosides (with Rocephin) Gentamicin, tobramycin Reduced antibiotic efficacy

This information is not exhaustive. Always discuss all your medications with your healthcare provider before starting a new antibiotic to ensure safe and effective treatment.