Drug Interactions

Drug interactions occur when one drug causes some change in the effect of another. In some cases, there is a change in the beneficial effects of the medication, in other cases there will be a change in side effects. Remember, alcohol and tobacco are drugs, and can be involved in drug interactions. Also, over-the-counter medications and herbal remedies can cause drug interactions.
    
Any time a new medication is added to other medications, the potential for drug interactions must be discussed. There are many different types of drug interactions, and not all of them will occur in every case. If you have any concerns about drug interactions, discuss your medication regimen with your health care provider and pharmacist. It is helpful to keep a list of your current medications with you at all times. Providers can then check the list to see if any drug interactions might exist.

Certain medications are more likely to be involved with serious drug interactions. The two most common ones are warfarin, also called Coumadin, and digoxin, or Lanoxin. If you are on warfarin, you should never begin a new medication unless a provider knowledgeable about anticoagulation approves.

Sometimes, drug interactions are beneficial. Sometimes drug combinations are prescribed that allow lower doses to be used, reducing the chance of side effects.

The best way to avoid adverse drug interactions is for you and all of your providers to be aware of all the medications you are taking. If you have questions about these medications, do not wait! Ask your pharmacist.