Health Topics for Medications

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 helpful effects of the drug and in other cases there will be a change in side effects. It is important to remember that 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 others, the possibility for drug interactions must be discussed. There are many different types of drug interactions, and not all of them will occur in every case. Some 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 your healthcare provider approves.

Sometimes, drug interactions are helpful. Drug combinations may be prescribed that allow lower doses to be used. This reduces the chance of side effects.

If you have any concerns about drug interactions, discuss your medications with your healthcare provider and pharmacist. 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.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File MEDI4746.RF2 VRS# 7822 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1999 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.