While many patients are already aware that drinking grapefruit juice has been known to cause adverse reactions with certain medications, the warning has been expanded. While it had previously been though that only 17 medications should not be taken within 72 hours of eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice, more than 43 medications have now been flagged. The most commonly prescribed drugs that interact adversely with grapefruit are cholesterol-lowering atorvastatin and simvastatin (Lipitor, Zocor); quetiapine (Seroquel) for bipolar disorder; and nifedipine (Procardia) for angina. Now, among others, solfienacin and tamsulosin (VESIcare, Flomax) for urinary incontinence and eplerenone (Inspra) for hypertension have been added. Grapefruit contains a compound that inhibits an enzyme that regulates how much of these medications is absorbed.
Do you like grapefruit? Be sure you have had a comprehensive conversation with your physician about what is being prescribed, what the dosage is, how often you will take it, what it will look like and what you can expect from taking the drug. At Med-Fast Pharmacy, we will always have the most up-to-date and accurate advice and knowledge to share with you, our valued customer. If you have questions regarding the medications you take call (724) 375-1672 to speak to a professional. We’re more than a pharmacy, we’re family! We tailor a program to your personal diabetes needs. We are also a specialized compounding pharmacy and feature a full line of vitamins and supplements. We have 13 area locations to serve you.
HINT: Always be sure to ask the pharmacist about potentially dangerous interactions associated with the medications your are taking.
