Does Erythromycin Interact with Zaleplon?
Erythromycin and Zaleplon have a unknown drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Co-administration of single, oral doses of zaleplon with erythromycin (10 mg and 800 mg, respectively), a strong, selective CYP3A4 inhibitor, produced a 34% increase in zaleplon's maximal plasma concentrations and a 20% increase in the area under the plasma concentration time curve. The magnitude of interaction with multiple doses of erythromycin is unknown. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Unknown
- Erythromycin Class
- Macrolide
- Zaleplon Class
- gamma-Aminobutyric Acid A Receptor Agonist
- Management
- Consult your pharmacist
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Erythromycin and your doctor is considering prescribing Zaleplon (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider