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Drug Interaction Report - Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Atorvastatin, Clonazepam, Enalapril, Fluoxetine, Gabapentin, Hydroxyzine...
Drug Interaction Report - Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Atorvastatin, Clonazepam, Enalapril, Fluoxetine, Gabapentin, Hydroxyzine...
Drug Interaction Report - Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Atorvastatin, Clonazepam, Enalapril, Fluoxetine, Gabapentin, Hydroxyzine...
acetaminophen
aspirin
atorvastatin
clonazepam
enalapril
fluoxetine
gabapentin
hydroxyzine
magnesium citrate
metformin
methylphenidate
tamsulosin
tramadol
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)
gabapentin traMADol
Major
Applies to: gabapentin, tramadol
Coadministration with opioids may increase the oral bioavailability of gabapentin. The precise
mechanism has not been established, but may involve increased gabapentin absorption due to
delayed gastrointestinal transit induced by opioids. In 12 healthy male volunteers, single-dose
administration of gabapentin 600 mg two hours following controlled-release morphine sulfate
60 mg increased gabapentin systemic exposure (AUC) by 44% and decreased apparent oral
clearance and apparent renal clearance by 23% and 16%, respectively, compared to
administration with placebo. The pharmacokinetics of morphine and its glucuronides were not
altered. Gabapentin has also been reported to reduce the plasma concentrations of
hydrocodone in a dose-dependent manner. The mechanism of this interaction is unknown.
When immediate-release gabapentin 125 mg or 500 mg was coadministered with hydrocodone
10 mg, hydrocodone Cmax decreased by 3% and 21%, respectively, while AUC decreased by
4% and 22%, respectively. Gabapentin AUC was increased 14% by hydrocodone.
References
3. US Food and Drug Administration. FDA warns about serious breathing problems with seizure and nerve
pain medicines gabapentin (Neurontin, Gralise, Horizant) and pregabalin (Lyrica, Lyrica CR) When used
with CNS depressants or in patients with lung problems. https://www.fda.gov/media/1336 2020.
References
1. US Food and Drug Administration. FDA warns about serious risks and death when combining opioid
pain or cough medicines with benzodiazepines; requires its strongest warning.
http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/UCM518672.pdf 2016.
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Switch to consumer interaction data
methylphenidate traMADol
Major
Applies to: methylphenidate, tramadol
MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if tramadol is administered with any substance that can
reduce the seizure threshold, particularly in the elderly and in patients with epilepsy, a history of
seizures, or other risk factors for seizures (e.g., head trauma, brain tumor, metabolic disorders,
alcohol and drug withdrawal, CNS infections).
References
1. Rosenstein DL, Nelson JC, Jacobs SC. Seizures associated with antidepressants: a review. J Clin
Psychiatry. 1993;54:289-99.
3. Gardiner JS, Blough D, Drinkard CR, et al. Tramadol and seizures: a surveillance study in a managed
care population. Pharmacotherapy. 2000;20:1423-31.
MANAGEMENT: In general, the use of tramadol in combination with SSRIs should be avoided
if possible, or otherwise approached with caution if potential benefit is deemed to outweigh the
risk. Patients should be closely monitored for symptoms of the serotonin syndrome during
treatment. Particular caution is advised when initiating or increasing the dosages of these
agents. The potential risk for serotonin syndrome should be considered even when
administering serotonergic agents sequentially, as some agents may demonstrate a prolonged
elimination half-life (e.g., fluoxetine, vortioxetine).
References
clonazePAM traMADol
Major
Applies to: clonazepam, tramadol
References
1. US Food and Drug Administration. FDA warns about serious risks and death when combining opioid
pain or cough medicines with benzodiazepines; requires its strongest warning.
http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/UCM518672.pdf 2016.
MANAGEMENT: During concomitant use of these drugs, patients should be monitored for
potentially excessive or prolonged CNS and respiratory depression. Cautious dosage titration
may be required, particularly at treatment initiation. Ambulatory patients should be counseled to
avoid hazardous activities requiring mental alertness and motor coordination until they know
how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they experience excessive or
prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.
References
1. Hamilton MJ, Bush M, Smith P, Peck AW. The effects of bupropion, a new antidepressant drug, and
diazepam, and their interaction in man. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1982;14:791-7.
2. Stambaugh JE, Lane C. Analgesic efficacy and pharmacokinetic evaluation of meperidine and
hydroxyzine, alone and in combination. Cancer Invest. 1983;1:111-7.
3. Sotaniemi EA, Anttila M, Rautio A, et al. Propranolol and sotalol metabolism after a drinking party. Clin
Pharmacol Ther. 1981;29:705-10.
hydrOXYzine tamsulosin
:
Moderate Applies to: hydroxyzine, tamsulosin
References
2. Shook TL, Kirshenbaum JM, Hundley RF, Shorey JM, Lamas GA. Ethanol intoxication complicating
intravenous nitroglycerin therapy. Ann Intern Med. 1984;101:498-9.
MONITOR: Coadministration with inhibitors of CYP450 3A4 and/or 2D6 may increase the
plasma concentrations of tamsulosin, which is primarily metabolized in the liver by these
isoenzymes. In 24 healthy volunteers, administration of a single 0.4 mg dose of tamsulosin with
the potent CYP450 3A4 inhibitor ketoconazole (400 mg once daily for 5 days) resulted in a 2.2-
fold increase in tamsulosin peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and a 2.8-fold increase in
systemic exposure (AUC) compared to administration alone. Likewise, concomitant treatment
with the potent CYP450 2D6 inhibitor paroxetine (20 mg once daily for 9 days) resulted in an
increase in the Cmax and AUC of a single 0.4 mg dose of tamsulosin by a factor of 1.3 and 1.6,
respectively. The effects of concomitant administration of a moderate CYP450 3A4 inhibitor
such as erythromycin or a moderate CYP450 2D6 inhibitor such as terbinafine on the
pharmacokinetics of tamsulosin have not been evaluated. The effects of coadministration of
both a CYP450 3A4 and a CYP450 2D6 inhibitor have also not been evaluated. However, there
is a potential for significant increase in tamsulosin exposure relative to coadministration with
either inhibitor alone. Similarly, a significant increase in exposure may occur when tamsulosin
is administered with a CYP450 3A4 inhibitor to individuals who have genetic polymorphisms of
CYP450 2D6 resulting in reduced or absent enzyme activity, or so-called CYP450 2D6 poor
metabolizers (approximately 7% of Caucasians and less than 2% of Asians and individuals of
African descent).
:
MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if tamsulosin is used concomitantly with moderate CYP450
3A4 inhibitors (e.g., amiodarone, aprepitant, diltiazem, dronedarone, erythromycin, fluconazole,
fluvoxamine, fusidic acid, imatinib, isavuconazonium, verapamil) and/or moderate to potent
CYP450 2D6 inhibitors (e.g., abiraterone, bupropion, celecoxib, cinacalcet, darifenacin,
dronedarone, duloxetine, fluoxetine, lorcaserin, paroxetine, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine,
rolapitant, terbinafine), particularly at a dosage higher than 0.4 mg/day. The potential for
increased risk of adverse effects such as postural hypotension, syncope, and priapism should
be considered. It should be noted that rolapitant, a moderate CYP450 2D6 inhibitor, can
increase plasma concentrations and the risk of adverse effects of tamsulosin for at least 28
days after administration of rolapitant. Patients should be advised to avoid rising abruptly from
a sitting or recumbent position, and to notify their physician if they experience dizziness,
lightheadedness, syncope, orthostasis, or tachycardia. Patients should also avoid driving or
operating hazardous machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
References
References
MONITOR: Bowel cleansing as well as overuse of certain laxatives may cause electrolyte loss
and increase the risk of torsade de pointes ventricular arrhythmia in patients treated with drugs
that prolong the QT interval. Electrolyte disturbances including hypokalemia and
hypomagnesemia have been reported with laxative abuse and are known risk factors for
torsade de pointes associated with QT interval prolongation.
MANAGEMENT: Patients treated with drugs that prolong the QT interval should exercise
caution when self-medicating with laxatives. The recommended dosage and duration of use
should not be exceeded. Patients treated with lactulose for more than six months should be
monitored periodically for electrolyte imbalance. Patients should be advised to seek prompt
medical attention if they experience symptoms that could indicate the occurrence of torsade de
pointes such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, palpitation, irregular heart rhythm,
shortness of breath, or syncope.
References
2. Muller-Lissner SA. Adverse effects of laxatives: fact and fiction. Pharmacology. 1993;47:138-45.
MONITOR: Limited data suggest that ACE inhibitors may potentiate the hypoglycemic effects
of oral antidiabetic drugs, including metformin. The mechanism is unknown. Symptomatic and
sometimes severe hypoglycemia has occurred.
References
hydrOXYzine gabapentin
Moderate
Applies to: hydroxyzine, gabapentin
MANAGEMENT: During concomitant use of these drugs, patients should be monitored for
potentially excessive or prolonged CNS and respiratory depression. Cautious dosage titration
may be required, particularly at treatment initiation. Ambulatory patients should be counseled to
avoid hazardous activities requiring mental alertness and motor coordination until they know
how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they experience excessive or
prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.
References
1. Hamilton MJ, Bush M, Smith P, Peck AW. The effects of bupropion, a new antidepressant drug, and
diazepam, and their interaction in man. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1982;14:791-7.
2. Stambaugh JE, Lane C. Analgesic efficacy and pharmacokinetic evaluation of meperidine and
hydroxyzine, alone and in combination. Cancer Invest. 1983;1:111-7.
3. Sotaniemi EA, Anttila M, Rautio A, et al. Propranolol and sotalol metabolism after a drinking party. Clin
Pharmacol Ther. 1981;29:705-10.
MONITOR: Coadministration of SSRIs or SNRIs may potentiate the central nervous system
(CNS) adverse effects of anticonvulsants such as somnolence and cognitive and psychomotor
impairment.
MANAGEMENT: SSRIs and SNRIs should be avoided in patients with unstable epilepsy, and
used cautiously in patients with epilepsy controlled with anticonvulsant medications. Treatment
with SSRIs and SNRIs should be discontinued if seizures develop or seizure frequency
increases. Patients receiving SSRIs or SNRIs with anticonvulsants, particularly carbamazepine,
eslicarbazepine, oxcarbazepine and/or valproic acid, should also have serum sodium levels
measured regularly and monitored for development of hyponatremia, particularly when higher
dosages of these medications are used. Signs and symptoms of hyponatremia include nausea,
vomiting, headache, difficulty concentrating, memory impairment, confusion, malaise, lethargy,
muscle weakness or spasms, and unsteadiness. In more severe and/or acute cases,
hallucination, syncope, seizure, coma, respiratory arrest, and death may occur. Discontinuation
:
of SSRIs and SNRIs should be considered in patients who develop symptomatic hyponatremia,
and appropriate medical intervention instituted. All patients receiving concomitant therapy with
SSRIs or SNRIs and anticonvulsants should be counseled against driving, operating
machinery, or engaging in potentially hazardous activities requiring mental alertness and motor
coordination until they know how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they
experience excessive or prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.
References
MONITOR: Some investigators suggest that coadministration with aspirin may attenuate the
vasodilator and hypotensive effects of ACE inhibitors. In addition, some have found that the
benefits of ACE inhibitors on morbidity and mortality in post-acute myocardial infarction,
coronary heart disease, and particularly congestive heart failure may be compromised or even
nullified by aspirin. The proposed mechanism is aspirin inhibition of cyclooxygenase, resulting
in suppression of prostaglandin synthesis and prostaglandin-mediated hemodynamic effects of
ACE inhibitors. However, evidence of a negative interaction is largely contradictory, and
interpretation of relevant data has often been complicated by multiple confounding elements as
well as the retrospective or post hoc nature of most studies. Available data seem to indicate
that low-dose aspirin (less than 236 mg/day, and especially less than 100 mg/day) is unlikely,
or at least significantly less likely, to interfere with ACE inhibitor effects, although susceptibility
to the interaction may be subject to some degree of interpatient variability.
References
1. Moore TJ, Crantz FR, Hollenberg NK. Contribution of prostaglandins to the antihypertensive action of
captopril in essential hypertension. Hypertension. 1981;3:168-73.
MANAGEMENT: Patients on chronic renal dialysis treated with a vitamin D analog should avoid
magnesium-containing products.
References
MONITOR: Bowel cleansing as well as overuse of certain laxatives may cause electrolyte loss
and increase the risk of torsade de pointes ventricular arrhythmia in patients treated with drugs
that prolong the QT interval. Electrolyte disturbances including hypokalemia and
hypomagnesemia have been reported with laxative abuse and are known risk factors for
torsade de pointes associated with QT interval prolongation.
MANAGEMENT: Patients treated with drugs that prolong the QT interval should exercise
caution when self-medicating with laxatives. The recommended dosage and duration of use
should not be exceeded. Patients treated with lactulose for more than six months should be
monitored periodically for electrolyte imbalance. Patients should be advised to seek prompt
medical attention if they experience symptoms that could indicate the occurrence of torsade de
pointes such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, palpitation, irregular heart rhythm,
shortness of breath, or syncope.
References
MONITOR: Bowel cleansing as well as overuse of certain laxatives may cause electrolyte loss
and increase the risk of torsade de pointes ventricular arrhythmia in patients treated with drugs
that prolong the QT interval. Electrolyte disturbances including hypokalemia and
hypomagnesemia have been reported with laxative abuse and are known risk factors for
torsade de pointes associated with QT interval prolongation.
MANAGEMENT: Patients treated with drugs that prolong the QT interval should exercise
caution when self-medicating with laxatives. The recommended dosage and duration of use
should not be exceeded. Patients treated with lactulose for more than six months should be
monitored periodically for electrolyte imbalance. Patients should be advised to seek prompt
medical attention if they experience symptoms that could indicate the occurrence of torsade de
pointes such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, palpitation, irregular heart rhythm,
shortness of breath, or syncope.
References
2. Muller-Lissner SA. Adverse effects of laxatives: fact and fiction. Pharmacology. 1993;47:138-45.
MANAGEMENT: During concomitant use of these drugs, patients should be monitored for
potentially excessive or prolonged CNS and respiratory depression. Cautious dosage titration
may be required, particularly at treatment initiation. Ambulatory patients should be counseled to
avoid hazardous activities requiring mental alertness and motor coordination until they know
how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they experience excessive or
prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.
:
References
1. Hamilton MJ, Bush M, Smith P, Peck AW. The effects of bupropion, a new antidepressant drug, and
diazepam, and their interaction in man. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1982;14:791-7.
2. Stambaugh JE, Lane C. Analgesic efficacy and pharmacokinetic evaluation of meperidine and
hydroxyzine, alone and in combination. Cancer Invest. 1983;1:111-7.
3. Sotaniemi EA, Anttila M, Rautio A, et al. Propranolol and sotalol metabolism after a drinking party. Clin
Pharmacol Ther. 1981;29:705-10.
clonazePAM hydrOXYzine
Moderate
Applies to: clonazepam, hydroxyzine
MANAGEMENT: During concomitant use of these drugs, patients should be monitored for
potentially excessive or prolonged CNS and respiratory depression. Cautious dosage titration
may be required, particularly at treatment initiation. Ambulatory patients should be counseled to
avoid hazardous activities requiring mental alertness and motor coordination until they know
how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they experience excessive or
prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.
References
1. Hamilton MJ, Bush M, Smith P, Peck AW. The effects of bupropion, a new antidepressant drug, and
diazepam, and their interaction in man. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1982;14:791-7.
2. Stambaugh JE, Lane C. Analgesic efficacy and pharmacokinetic evaluation of meperidine and
hydroxyzine, alone and in combination. Cancer Invest. 1983;1:111-7.
3. Sotaniemi EA, Anttila M, Rautio A, et al. Propranolol and sotalol metabolism after a drinking party. Clin
Pharmacol Ther. 1981;29:705-10.
:
View all 36 references
enalapril hydrOXYzine
Moderate
Applies to: enalapril, hydroxyzine
References
2. Shook TL, Kirshenbaum JM, Hundley RF, Shorey JM, Lamas GA. Ethanol intoxication complicating
intravenous nitroglycerin therapy. Ann Intern Med. 1984;101:498-9.
FLUoxetine methylphenidate
Moderate
Applies to: fluoxetine, methylphenidate
References
1. Stoll AL, Pillay SS, Diamond L, Workum SB, Cole JO. Methylphenidate augmentation of serotonin
selective reuptake inhibitors: a case series. J Clin Psychiatry. 1996;57:72-6.
2. Findling RL. Open-label treatment of comorbid depression and attentional disorders with co-
administration of serotonin reuptake inhibitors and psychostimulants in children, adolescents, and
adults: a case series. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 1996;6:165-75.
3. Gammon GD, Brown TE. Fluoxetine and methylphenidate in combination for treatment of attention
deficit disorder and comorbid depressive disorder. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 1993;3:1-10.
enalapril methylphenidate
Moderate
Applies to: enalapril, methylphenidate
MONITOR: Methylphenidate and other derivative amphetamines may decrease the therapeutic
effects of antihypertensive drugs. According to serdexmethylphenidate label information, CNS
stimulants cause a mean increase in blood pressure of approximately 2 to 4 mmHg and a
mean increase in heart rate of approximately 3 to 6 beats per minute. With some individuals
having larger increases.
References
MONITOR: Omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., fish oil) may potentiate the pharmacologic effects of
anticoagulants and other drugs that affect hemostasis such as platelet inhibitors, thrombin
inhibitors, thrombolytic agents, dextran, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
The exact mechanism of interaction is unknown. Omega-3 fatty acids may possess mild
antiplatelet and hypocoagulant activities. In some studies, these substances have been shown
to reduce thrombin generation and plasma levels of fibrinogen, prothrombin, and coagulation
factors V, VII, and X. Prolongation of bleeding time has been demonstrated, although it did not
exceed normal limits and did not produce clinically significant bleeding. The interaction was
suspected in a case report of a 67-year-old woman treated with warfarin for 1.5 years who
exhibited an increase in INR from 2.8 the previous month to 4.3 approximately one week after
doubling her fish oil dosage from 1000 to 2000 mg/day. Prior to the increase, her INR had been
stable and therapeutic for 5 months on warfarin 1.5 mg/day. The patient was advised to reduce
her fish oil consumption to 1000 mg/day, while her warfarin dose was withheld for one day and
then reduced to 1 mg alternating with 1.5 mg per day. Eight days later, her INR was
subtherapeutic at 1.6, so the warfarin dosage was increased back to 1.5 mg/day. The patient's
INR subsequently returned to therapeutic range.
MANAGEMENT: In general, patients should consult a healthcare provider before taking any
herbal or nutritional supplements. Patients using omega-3 fatty acids in combination with
anticoagulants or other drugs that affect hemostasis should be advised of the potential for
increased risk of bleeding complications.
References
1. Product Information. Omacor (omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids). Abbott Pharmaceutical. 2005.
2. Vanschoonbeek K, Feijge MA, Paquay J, et al. Variable hypocoagulant effect of fish oil intake in
:
humans: modulation of fibrinogen level and thrombin generation. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol.
2004;24:1734-40.
3. Buckley MS, Goff AD, Knapp WE. Fish oil interaction with warfarin. Ann Pharmacother. 2004;38:50-3.
clonazePAM FLUoxetine
Moderate
Applies to: clonazepam, fluoxetine
MANAGEMENT: During concomitant use of these drugs, patients should be monitored for
potentially excessive or prolonged CNS and respiratory depression. Cautious dosage titration
may be required, particularly at treatment initiation. Ambulatory patients should be counseled to
avoid hazardous activities requiring mental alertness and motor coordination until they know
how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they experience excessive or
prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.
References
1. Hamilton MJ, Bush M, Smith P, Peck AW. The effects of bupropion, a new antidepressant drug, and
diazepam, and their interaction in man. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1982;14:791-7.
2. Stambaugh JE, Lane C. Analgesic efficacy and pharmacokinetic evaluation of meperidine and
hydroxyzine, alone and in combination. Cancer Invest. 1983;1:111-7.
3. Sotaniemi EA, Anttila M, Rautio A, et al. Propranolol and sotalol metabolism after a drinking party. Clin
Pharmacol Ther. 1981;29:705-10.
MONITOR: Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) may potentiate the risk of bleeding in patients
treated with ulcerogenic agents and agents that affect hemostasis such as anticoagulants,
platelet inhibitors, thrombin inhibitors, thrombolytic agents, or agents that commonly cause
thrombocytopenia. The tricyclic antidepressant, clomipramine, is also a strong SRI and may
interact similarly. Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis, thus
SRIs may alter platelet function and induce bleeding. Published case reports have documented
the occurrence of bleeding episodes in patients treated with psychotropic agents that interfere
with serotonin reuptake. Bleeding events related to SRIs have ranged from ecchymosis,
hematoma, epistaxis, and petechiae to life-threatening hemorrhages. Additional
epidemiological studies have confirmed the association between use of these agents and the
occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, and concurrent use of NSAIDs or aspirin was
found to potentiate the risk. Preliminary data also suggest that there may be a
pharmacodynamic interaction between SSRIs and oral anticoagulants that can cause an
increased bleeding diathesis. Concomitant administration of paroxetine and warfarin,
specifically, has been associated with an increased frequency of bleeding without apparent
changes in the disposition of either drug or changes in the prothrombin time. Bleeding has also
been reported with fluoxetine and warfarin, while citalopram and sertraline have been reported
to prolong the prothrombin time of patients taking warfarin by about 5% to 8%. In the RE-LY
study (Randomized Evaluation of Long-term anticoagulant therapy), SRIs were associated with
an increased risk of bleeding in all treatment groups.
MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if SRIs or clomipramine are used in combination with other
drugs that affect hemostasis. Close clinical and laboratory observation for hematologic
complications is recommended. Patients should be advised to promptly report any signs of
bleeding to their physician, including pain, swelling, headache, dizziness, weakness, prolonged
bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual flow, vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding of gums
from brushing, unusual bleeding or bruising, red or brown urine, or red or black stools.
References
2. Claire RJ, Servis ME, Cram DL Jr. Potential interaction between warfarin sodium and fluoxetine. Am J
:
Psychiatry. 1991;148:1604.
3. Yaryura-Tobias JA, Kirschen H, Ninan P, Mosberg HJ. Fluoxetine and bleeding in obsessive-compulsive
disorder. Am J Psychiatry. 1991;148:949.
enalapril clonazePAM
Moderate
Applies to: enalapril, clonazepam
References
2. Shook TL, Kirshenbaum JM, Hundley RF, Shorey JM, Lamas GA. Ethanol intoxication complicating
intravenous nitroglycerin therapy. Ann Intern Med. 1984;101:498-9.
metFORMIN food
Major
Applies to: metformin
GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol can potentiate the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism and
increase the risk of lactic acidosis. In addition, alcohol may cause hypoglycemia or
hyperglycemia in patients with diabetes. Although hypoglycemia rarely occurs during treatment
with metformin alone, the risk may increase with acute consumption of alcohol. Even modest
amounts can lower blood sugar significantly, especially when the alcohol is ingested on an
empty stomach or following exercise. The mechanism involves inhibition of both
gluconeogenesis as well as the counter-regulatory response to hypoglycemia. Episodes of
hypoglycemia may last for 8 to 12 hours after ethanol ingestion. By contrast, chronic alcohol
abuse can cause impaired glucose tolerance and hyperglycemia. Moderate alcohol
consumption generally does not affect blood glucose levels in patients with well controlled
diabetes.
Food may have varying effects on the absorption of metformin from immediate-release versus
extended-release formulations. When a single 850 mg dose of immediate-release metformin
was administered with food, mean peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure
(AUC) decreased by 40% and 25%, respectively, and time to peak plasma concentration
(Tmax) increased by 35 minutes compared to administration under fasting conditions. By
contrast, administration of extended-release metformin with food increased AUC by 50%
without affecting Cmax or Tmax, and both high- and low-fat meals had the same effect. These
data may not be applicable to formulations that contain metformin with other oral antidiabetic
agents.
MANAGEMENT: Metformin should be taken with meals, and excessive alcohol intake should
be avoided during treatment. Diabetes patients in general should avoid consuming alcohol if
their blood glucose is not well controlled, or if they have hypertriglyceridemia, neuropathy, or
pancreatitis. Alcohol should not be consumed on an empty stomach or following exercise, as it
:
may increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Patients should contact their physician immediately if
they experience potential signs and symptoms of lactic acidosis such as malaise, myalgia,
respiratory distress, increasing somnolence, and nonspecific abdominal distress (especially
after stabilization of metformin therapy, when gastrointestinal symptoms are uncommon). With
more marked acidosis, there may also be associated hypothermia, hypotension, and resistant
bradyarrhythmias. Metformin should be withdrawn promptly if lactic acidosis is suspected.
Serum electrolytes, ketones, blood glucose, blood pH, lactate levels, and blood metformin
levels may be useful in establishing a diagnosis. Lactic acidosis should be suspected in any
diabetic patient with metabolic acidosis lacking evidence of ketoacidosis (ketonuria and
ketonemia).
References
2. Position Statement: evidence-based nutrition principles and recommendations for the treatment and
prevention of diabetes related complications. American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Care.
2002;25(Suppl 1):S50-S60.
acetaminophen food
Major
Applies to: acetaminophen
GENERALLY AVOID: Chronic, excessive consumption of alcohol may increase the risk of
acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity, which has included rare cases of fatal hepatitis and
frank hepatic failure requiring liver transplantation. The proposed mechanism is induction of
hepatic microsomal enzymes during chronic alcohol use, which may result in accelerated
metabolism of acetaminophen and increased production of potentially hepatotoxic metabolites.
1. Kaysen GA, Pond SM, Roper MH, Menke DJ, Marrama MA. Combined hepatic and renal injury in
alcoholics during therapeutic use of acetaminophen. Arch Intern Med. 1985;145:2019-23.
2. O'Dell JR, Zetterman RK, Burnett DA. Centrilobular hepatic fibrosis following acetaminophen-induced
hepatic necrosis in an alcoholic. JAMA. 1986;255:2636-7.
3. Seeff LB, Cuccherini BA, Zimmerman HJ, Adler E, Benjamin SB. Acetaminophen hepatotoxicity in
alcoholics. Ann Intern Med. 1986;104:399-404.
enalapril food
Moderate
Applies to: enalapril
MANAGEMENT: It is recommended that patients who are taking ACE inhibitors be advised to
avoid moderately high or high potassium dietary intake. Particular attention should be paid to
the potassium content of salt substitutes.
References
2. Good CB, McDermott L. Diet and serum potassium in patients on ACE inhibitors. JAMA. 1995;274:538.
3. Ray K, Dorman S, Watson R. Severe hyperkalaemia due to the concomitant use of salt substitutes and
ACE inhibitors in hypertension: a potentially life threatening interaction. J Hum Hypertens. 1999;13:717-
20.
tamsulosin food
:
Moderate Applies to: tamsulosin
ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Food may delay the gastrointestinal absorption of tamsulosin.
The time to maximum plasma concentration (Tmax) is reached by 4 to 5 hours under fasted
conditions and by 6 to 7 hours when tamsulosin is administered with food. The delay in Tmax
has the desirable effect of smoothing the tamsulosin plasma concentration profile, thereby
reducing fluctuation of the plasma peak and trough concentrations with multiple dosing. Food
may also affect the extent of absorption of tamsulosin. It has been reported that taking
tamsulosin under fasted conditions results in a 30% increase in bioavailability (AUC) and 40%
to 70% increase in peak plasma concentration (Cmax) compared to fed conditions. The effects
of food on the pharmacokinetics of tamsulosin are consistent regardless of whether tamsulosin
is taken with a light meal or a high-fat meal.
References
atorvastatin food
Moderate
Applies to: atorvastatin
GENERALLY AVOID: Coadministration with grapefruit juice may increase the plasma
concentrations of atorvastatin. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated
first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in grapefruit. When a single
40 mg dose of atorvastatin was coadministered with 240 mL of grapefruit juice, atorvastatin
peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) increased by 16% and 37%,
respectively. Greater increases in Cmax (up to 71%) and/or AUC (up to 2.5 fold) have been
reported with excessive consumption of grapefruit juice (>=750 mL to 1.2 liters per day).
Clinically, high levels of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory activity in plasma is associated with an
increased risk of musculoskeletal toxicity. Myopathy manifested as muscle pain and/or
weakness associated with grossly elevated creatine kinase exceeding ten times the upper limit
of normal has been reported occasionally. Rhabdomyolysis has also occurred rarely, which
:
may be accompanied by acute renal failure secondary to myoglobinuria and may result in
death.
ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Fibres such as oat bran and pectin may diminish the
pharmacologic effects of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors by interfering with their absorption from
the gastrointestinal tract.
MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving therapy with atorvastatin should limit their consumption of
grapefruit juice to no more than 1 liter per day. Patients should be advised to promptly report
any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, particularly if accompanied by fever,
malaise and/or dark colored urine. Therapy should be discontinued if creatine kinase is
markedly elevated in the absence of strenuous exercise or if myopathy is otherwise suspected
or diagnosed. In addition, patients should either refrain from the use of oat bran and pectin or, if
concurrent use cannot be avoided, to separate the administration times by at least 2 to 4 hours.
References
1. Richter WO, Jacob BG, Schwandt P. Interaction between fibre and lovastatin. Lancet. 1991;338:706.
traMADol food
Moderate
Applies to: tramadol
GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may potentiate some of the pharmacologic effects of CNS-active
agents. Use in combination may result in additive central nervous system depression and/or
impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills.
MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving CNS-active agents should be warned of this interaction and
advised to avoid or limit consumption of alcohol. Ambulatory patients should be counseled to
:
avoid hazardous activities requiring complete mental alertness and motor coordination until
they know how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they experience
excessive or prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.
References
1. Warrington SJ, Ankier SI, Turner P. Evaluation of possible interactions between ethanol and trazodone
or amitriptyline. Neuropsychobiology. 1986;15:31-7.
2. Gilman AG, eds., Nies AS, Rall TW, Taylor P. Goodman and Gilman's the Pharmacological Basis of
Therapeutics. New York, NY: Pergamon Press Inc. 1990.
gabapentin food
Moderate
Applies to: gabapentin
GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may potentiate some of the pharmacologic effects of CNS-active
agents. Use in combination may result in additive central nervous system depression and/or
impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills.
MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving CNS-active agents should be warned of this interaction and
advised to avoid or limit consumption of alcohol. Ambulatory patients should be counseled to
avoid hazardous activities requiring complete mental alertness and motor coordination until
they know how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they experience
excessive or prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.
References
1. Warrington SJ, Ankier SI, Turner P. Evaluation of possible interactions between ethanol and trazodone
or amitriptyline. Neuropsychobiology. 1986;15:31-7.
2. Gilman AG, eds., Nies AS, Rall TW, Taylor P. Goodman and Gilman's the Pharmacological Basis of
Therapeutics. New York, NY: Pergamon Press Inc. 1990.
:
3. Product Information. Fycompa (perampanel). Eisai Inc. 2012.
hydrOXYzine food
Moderate
Applies to: hydroxyzine
GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may potentiate some of the pharmacologic effects of CNS-active
agents. Use in combination may result in additive central nervous system depression and/or
impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills.
MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving CNS-active agents should be warned of this interaction and
advised to avoid or limit consumption of alcohol. Ambulatory patients should be counseled to
avoid hazardous activities requiring complete mental alertness and motor coordination until
they know how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they experience
excessive or prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.
References
1. Warrington SJ, Ankier SI, Turner P. Evaluation of possible interactions between ethanol and trazodone
or amitriptyline. Neuropsychobiology. 1986;15:31-7.
2. Gilman AG, eds., Nies AS, Rall TW, Taylor P. Goodman and Gilman's the Pharmacological Basis of
Therapeutics. New York, NY: Pergamon Press Inc. 1990.
methylphenidate food
Moderate
Applies to: methylphenidate
GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may exacerbate the adverse central nervous system effects of
psychoactive drugs, including methylphenidate.
:
GENERALLY AVOID: Consumption of alcohol while taking certain sustained-release
formulations of methylphenidate may cause rapid release of the drug, resulting in increased
systemic levels of methylphenidate. In vitro studies have been conducted using Metadate CD
60 mg and Ritalin LA 40 mg capsules, as well as Concerta 18 mg tablet. At an alcohol
concentration of 40%, an increase in the release rate of methylphenidate was observed in the
first hour for Metadate CD and Ritalin LA, resulting in 84% and 98% of the methylphenidate
being released, respectively. In contrast, there was no increased release of methylphenidate in
the first hour for Concerta. These results are considered to be representative of the other
available strengths of the corresponding product.
References
3. Product Information. Ritalin LA (methylphenidate). Quality Care Products/Lake Erie Medical. 2013.
FLUoxetine food
Moderate
Applies to: fluoxetine
GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may potentiate some of the pharmacologic effects of CNS-active
agents. Use in combination may result in additive central nervous system depression and/or
impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills.
MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving CNS-active agents should be warned of this interaction and
advised to avoid or limit consumption of alcohol. Ambulatory patients should be counseled to
avoid hazardous activities requiring complete mental alertness and motor coordination until
they know how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they experience
excessive or prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.
:
References
1. Warrington SJ, Ankier SI, Turner P. Evaluation of possible interactions between ethanol and trazodone
or amitriptyline. Neuropsychobiology. 1986;15:31-7.
2. Gilman AG, eds., Nies AS, Rall TW, Taylor P. Goodman and Gilman's the Pharmacological Basis of
Therapeutics. New York, NY: Pergamon Press Inc. 1990.
clonazePAM food
Moderate
Applies to: clonazepam
GENERALLY AVOID: Acute ethanol ingestion may potentiate the CNS effects of many
benzodiazepines. Tolerance may develop with chronic ethanol use. The mechanism may be
decreased clearance of the benzodiazepines because of CYP450 hepatic enzyme inhibition.
Also, it has been suggested that the cognitive deficits induced by benzodiazepines may be
increased in patients who chronically consume large amounts of alcohol.
References
1. MacLeod SM, Giles HG, Patzalek G, Thiessen JJ, Sellers EM. Diazepam actions and plasma
concentrations following ethanol ingestion. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1977;11:345-9.
2. Whiting B, Lawrence JR, Skellern GG, Meier J. Effect of acute alcohol intoxication on the metabolism
and plasma kinetics of chlordiazepoxide. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1979;7:95-100.
3. Divoll M, Greenblatt DJ, Lacasse Y, Shader RI. Benzodiazepine overdosage: plasma concentrations
and clinical outcome. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 1981;73:381-3.
References
enalapril food
Moderate
Applies to: enalapril
References
aspirin food
Minor
Applies to: aspirin
One study has reported that coadministration of caffeine and aspirin lead to a 25% increase in
the rate of appearance and 17% increase in maximum concentration of salicylate in the
plasma. A significantly higher area under the plasma concentration time curve of salicylate was
also reported when both drugs were administered together. The exact mechanism of this
interaction has not been specified. Physicians and patients should be aware that
coadministration of aspirin and caffeine may lead to higher salicylate levels faster.
References
Therapeutic duplication is the use of more than one medicine from the same drug
category or therapeutic class to treat the same condition. This can be intentional in cases
where drugs with similar actions are used together for demonstrated therapeutic benefit. It
can also be unintentional in cases where a patient has been treated by more than one
doctor, or had prescriptions filled at more than one pharmacy, and can have potentially
adverse consequences.
The recommended maximum number of medicines in the 'Central Nervous System (CNS)
Drugs' category to be taken concurrently is usually three. Your list includes five medicines
belonging to the 'Central Nervous System (CNS) Drugs' category:
clonazepam
fluoxetine
gabapentin
hydroxyzine
methylphenidate
Note: In certain circumstances, the benefits of taking this combination of drugs may outweigh
any risks. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications
or dosage.
Tranquilizers
Duplication
Therapeutic duplication
clonazepam
hydroxyzine
Note: In certain circumstances, the benefits of taking this combination of drugs may outweigh
any risks. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications
or dosage.
:
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Major Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the
benefit.
Moderate Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special
circumstances.
Minor Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug,
take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page
applies to your personal circumstances.
: