Clarithromycin and Ibrutinib: Drug Interaction Guide
Quick answer: This is a major interaction — avoid combining Clarithromycin and Ibrutinib unless specifically directed by your doctor.
How Clarithromycin interacts with Ibrutinib
Clarithromycin strongly inhibits CYP3A4, the principal pathway for ibrutinib metabolism, substantially increasing ibrutinib exposure and toxicity.
What you should do
Avoid the combination by selecting another antibiotic. If short-term clarithromycin is unavoidable, interrupt or adjust ibrutinib according to specialist prescribing guidance.
Key facts
Severity
Major — avoid combination
Mechanism
Clarithromycin strongly inhibits CYP3A4, the principal pathway for ibrutinib metabolism, substantially increasing ibruti...
Action
Avoid the combination by selecting another antibiotic. If short-term clarithromycin is unavoidable, interrupt or adjust ...
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Clarithromycin and Ibrutinib together?
No — this combination should generally be avoided. Avoid the combination by selecting another antibiotic. If short-term clarithromycin is unavoidable, interrupt or adjust ibrutinib according to specialist prescribing guidance.
What is the severity of this interaction?
The interaction between Clarithromycin and Ibrutinib is classified as Major — avoid combination. Clarithromycin strongly inhibits CYP3A4, the principal pathway for ibrutinib metabolism, substantially increasing ibrutinib exposure and toxicity.
What should I do if I'm prescribed both?
Avoid the combination by selecting another antibiotic. If short-term clarithromycin is unavoidable, interrupt or adjust ibrutinib according to specialist prescribing guidance. Always consult your prescribing clinician — do not stop or change medications without medical guidance.
Last reviewed: by iMedic Medical Editorial Team. Our editorial process.