ORLANDO, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — A recent study found one in three older adults take at least five different prescription drugs. But some medication combinations can be deadly.
It’s not uncommon to take multiple medications at one time.
But combining certain meds can be dangerous … even deadly. Taking the antibiotic Bactrim with a blood pressure med known as an ace inhibitor can raise potassium levels and increase the risk of sudden death. Mixing acetaminophen and opioids, such as Tylenol three and over-the-counter Tylenol, can cause liver toxicity. Using anti-depressants known as SSRI’s with anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Advil, can increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Blood thinners taken with aspirin can up your chances of internal and external bleeding. And combining a cholesterol-lowering statin with the anti-fungal drug fluconazole could cause muscle weakness or kidney damage.
Tell your doctor about all medicines you take. Ask your pharmacist to check for any potential interactions, and don’t take any new drug without first checking with your doc. It’s advice that could save your life.
Medications used to fight infection, reduce cholesterol, treat high blood pressure or heart problems, or prevent organ rejection in transplant recipients should not be combined with grapefruit, or other citrus fruits, such as Seville oranges. The mayo clinic says chemicals in the fruit can interfere with the enzymes that break down the medication in your system.
Contributors to this news report include: Julie Marks, Producer; Tony D’Astoli, Editor and Videographer.
