Which of the following antibiotics is known to interact with calcium channel blockers, specifically in dental prescriptions?

Erythromycin is known to interact with calcium channel blockers, particularly in the context of dental prescriptions. This interaction occurs because erythromycin can inhibit the metabolism of certain calcium channel blockers, potentially leading to increased plasma concentrations of these medications. This can result in enhanced effects or increased side effects related to calcium channel blockers, such as hypotension or bradycardia.

In dentistry, where antibiotics are often prescribed, understanding potential drug interactions is essential for patient safety. Erythromycin’s mechanism as a macrolide antibiotic and its effect on the cytochrome P450 system provide the basis for this interaction. Other antibiotics mentioned, such as norfluoxetine, metronidazole, and cephalexin, do not have significant interactions with calcium channel blockers in the same way and are generally considered safe in patients who are prescribed these antihypertensives.