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Pharmacokinetic interaction between theophylline and erythromycin
British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
|October 1, 1982
Summary
Erythromycin co-administration decreases theophylline clearance and increases its half-life. Conversely, theophylline reduces erythromycin exposure, impacting steady-state concentrations. Clinical implications require consideration.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Drug Interactions
- Clinical Pharmacokinetics
Background:
- Theophylline is a bronchodilator with a narrow therapeutic index.
- Erythromycin is a common antibiotic.
- Understanding drug-drug interactions is crucial for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pharmacokinetic interaction between theophylline and erythromycin.
- To assess the impact of erythromycin on theophylline pharmacokinetics.
- To evaluate the effect of theophylline on erythromycin pharmacokinetics.
Main Methods:
- Single intravenous dose theophylline pharmacokinetics studied alone and with erythromycin.
- Steady-state erythromycin pharmacokinetics evaluated alone and with theophylline.
- Six healthy subjects participated in the study.
Main Results:
- Erythromycin co-administration significantly decreased theophylline clearance and increased its elimination half-life.
- Theophylline significantly reduced erythromycin's area under the curve and both mean steady-state and maximum concentrations.
- Statistical significance (P < 0.05) was observed for all key pharmacokinetic changes.
Conclusions:
- Co-administration of erythromycin and theophylline results in significant pharmacokinetic alterations for both drugs.
- Theophylline clearance reduction and half-life increase during erythromycin therapy warrant clinical attention.
- Reduced erythromycin exposure in the presence of theophylline necessitates careful dosing and monitoring.