Can I take Acarbose and Biaxin together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 14 Mar 2026
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Taking Biaxin (clarithromycin) while using acarbose may cause your blood sugar levels to drop too low, a condition known as hypoglycaemia. This can make you feel shaky, sweaty, confused, or dizzy.
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Why this happens
Biaxin (clarithromycin) can interfere with how your body processes certain diabetes medicines. It may also increase the amount of insulin your body produces or change how acarbose works in the gut, leading to an unexpected drop in blood sugar.
What you should do
Back to contentsYou should use caution when taking these medicines together. Monitor your blood sugar levels more frequently than usual. If you experience symptoms of low blood sugar (such as hunger, trembling, or sweating), treat it immediately with glucose tablets or a sugary drink. Speak to your doctor, as they may need to adjust your acarbose dose while you are taking the antibiotic.
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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.
14 Mar 2026 | Originally published

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