Can I take Clarithromycin and Sertraline together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 25 Jan 2026
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Taking these two medicines together can increase the risk of a rare but serious heart rhythm problem. It can also lead to higher levels of sertraline in your body, which may increase the risk of a serious condition called 'serotonin syndrome'. Symptoms of this include feeling very agitated, sweating, shivering, or experiencing muscle twitches.
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Why this happens
Clarithromycin slows down the liver's ability to break down sertraline, leading to higher levels of the antidepressant in your blood. Additionally, both medicines have the potential to affect the electrical activity of the heart (known as QT prolongation), and using them together increases this risk.
What you should do
Back to contentsSpeak to your doctor before taking these together. They may prefer to prescribe a different antibiotic that does not interact with your antidepressant. If you must take both, seek immediate medical help if you feel dizzy, faint, or notice a fast or pounding heartbeat.
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Using other medicines
Back to contentsTaking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.
Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.
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Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
25 Jan 2026 | Originally published
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