Clarithromycin & Methotrexate

[QAGS]

I took my MXT this morning( Friday), this after missing last week's dose due to going on Clarithromycin for skin infection , now I have to go back on A/Bs as my skin problem no better. My GP said it is OK to start Clarithromycin again tomorrow ( Sat) , but I am worried , as only one day interval any advice please?

[allanah]

Is it oral claritho. tablets? I was allowed mine on antibiotics !

[ruth_p]

I would say if your doctor says it’s ok then follow the advice from the expert.

[Durrell]

Hi Qags, I was on clarithromycin for an infection & MTX (orally once a week). I was ok to continue with both, but in the past I have also been told to stop MTX, I don’t think it’s a meds clash more that they are both doing opposite jobs, so hence why dropping the MTX helps you hopefully clear the infection quicker, well that’s how it was described to me. I also take probiotics whilst on AB, however I now continue to take daily, apart from MYX day..

[oldtimer]

I found a paper about a trial using clarithromycin with methotrexate which showed some improvement in symptoms... But generally the idea is that if you are taking an antibiotic, it will be more effective if you are not taking methotrexate at the same time. But as methotrexate is a long term treatment that takes time both to build up and fade down again, short term stops may not make much difference anyway.I wouldn't worry too much about it!

[Hidden]

My consultant says stopping two consecutive doses of MTX when on antibiotics or after having vaccinations, is okay, but not more than that. I've done it a few times. That said, Clarithromycin does not have adverse interactions with MTX according to bnf.nice.org.uk, which is the most authoritative place to check. You could always ring your pharmacy and ask advice from the pharmacist.

[QAGS in reply to Hidden]

I certainly did thanks Bacharia, and was completely reassured, thanks to you all for putting my mind at rest . I have noted the bnf website for future reference x

[Hidden in reply to QAGS]

It's always good to check and relieve the anxiety. Stay safe. x