Dangerous Drink-and-Drug Interactions

Dangerous Drink-and-Drug Interactions

Molly Raisch

Friday, October 12, 2012

Before you wash down medication with just any beverage, watch out; common drinks, from fruit juice to coffee, can lessen the effectiveness of certain drugs as well as pose serious health threats when combined with some prescriptions. Medical toxicologist Lesile Dye, MD, FACMT outlined the top alarming combos.

Grapefruit juice negatively interacts with more than 50 medications, including statins. Because the effects of the citrus juice last more than 24 hours, simply taking your meds at a different time won't solve the problem.

An enzyme found in pomegranate juice can break down several blood pressure prescriptions.

Calcium can interfere with the effectiveness of thyroid medication. Wait at least 4 hours after dosage to drink any calcium-rich beverages.

Caffeine can pose a serious health threat when taken with stimulants. Avoid a cup of joe when taking ephedrine (appetite suppressants), asthma prescriptions, and amphetamines (such as Adderall).

The potassium in sports drinks can be dangerous when coupled with some heart failure or hypertension drugs. Bananas are also very rich in potassium.

Skip the dinnertime glass of wine when taking antidepressents; the combo can cause hypertension, headaches, fast heart rate, and stroke. The same goes for energy drinks.

Vitamin K, also found in broccoli and kale, can decrease the effect of blood thinners such as coumarin or warfarin.

Careful with what you consume while taking medication.