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Colchicine macrolide interaction — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardMusculoskeletal TherapeuticsColchicine macrolide interactionGPhC CRA

A patient taking colchicine for an acute gout flare is prescribed clarithromycin for a chest infection. He has moderate renal impairment. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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Correct answer: E — Clarithromycin can increase colchicine toxicity risk

Clarithromycin inhibits pathways involved in colchicine clearance and can markedly increase colchicine toxicity risk. Renal impairment further increases risk of serious adverse effects such as myopathy and marrow suppression. The other options either delay appropriate care, use an unsuitable medicine, or miss the main safety issue.

Reference: BNF