Patients who take herbal and dietary supplements should know that some can interact with medications in potentially harmful ways. For instance, the antioxidant supplement coenzyme Q-10 should be taken with caution when mixed with blood pressure medication, anticoagulants, and chemotherapy drugs. In addition, the cold remedy Echinacea might change how the body breaks down a number of medications, particularly in the liver. The popular herb ginseng can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants (warfarin, etc.) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, etc.). Ginseng may also produce side effects in patients who take MAOI anti-depressants. Other supplements that pose potentially harmful interactions with medications include saw palmetto, St. John’s Wort, glucosamine, and ginko biloba.
We understand the composition of medicines, as well as the laws that require their manufacture and sale. We can be trusted to only have your best interest at heart. If you have questions about your mixing your medications with supplements, stop by or call any of our Med-Fast Pharmacy locations.
HINT: St. John’s Wort is an herbal antidepressant that can interact with a host of medications, including antidepressants, heart medications, statins, anticoagulants, narcotic painkillers, heartburn treatments, and many others.
