Atorvastatin and Clarithromycin: Drug Interaction Guide
Quick answer: This is a major interaction — avoid combining Atorvastatin and Clarithromycin unless specifically directed by your doctor.
How Atorvastatin interacts with Clarithromycin
Clarithromycin inhibits CYP3A4-mediated atorvastatin metabolism, increasing plasma concentrations and risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.
What you should do
Hold atorvastatin during clarithromycin course or limit atorvastatin to 20 mg/day; substitute azithromycin if a macrolide is needed.
Key facts
Severity
Major — avoid combination
Mechanism
Clarithromycin inhibits CYP3A4-mediated atorvastatin metabolism, increasing plasma concentrations and risk of myopathy a...
Action
Hold atorvastatin during clarithromycin course or limit atorvastatin to 20 mg/day; substitute azithromycin if a macrolid...
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Atorvastatin and Clarithromycin together?
No — this combination should generally be avoided. Hold atorvastatin during clarithromycin course or limit atorvastatin to 20 mg/day; substitute azithromycin if a macrolide is needed.
What is the severity of this interaction?
The interaction between Atorvastatin and Clarithromycin is classified as Major — avoid combination. Clarithromycin inhibits CYP3A4-mediated atorvastatin metabolism, increasing plasma concentrations and risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.
What should I do if I'm prescribed both?
Hold atorvastatin during clarithromycin course or limit atorvastatin to 20 mg/day; substitute azithromycin if a macrolide is needed. Always consult your prescribing clinician — do not stop or change medications without medical guidance.
Last reviewed: by iMedic Medical Editorial Team. Our editorial process.