What should patients avoid when taking macrolides?

Patients should avoid using Seldane, Hismanal, Propulsid, or Orap when taking macrolides because these medications can potentially interact adversely with macrolides, leading to increased risks of side effects or toxicities. Macrolides, such as erythromycin, azithromycin, and clarithromycin, can affect the metabolism of these drugs, which may result in elevated blood levels and increase the risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias.

For example, Seldane (terfenadine) can cause life-threatening heart rhythms when taken with macrolides. This is due to the way macrolides inhibit certain liver enzymes responsible for metabolizing these drugs. Therefore, avoiding these specific medications ensures patient safety and prevents harmful drug interactions while on macrolide therapy.