Today's date is April 28, 2000. We hear from lots of people who take many drugs - sometimes up to 10 prescription drugs. For example, patients may take drugs for osteoporosis, arthritis, atrial fibrillation, high cholesterol, and asthma. It seems likely that these drugs create interactions, some of which may be harmful. Yet, many users tell us that their doctors are unable to tell them about possible interactions.
Drug interactions can produce various results.
Usually the activity of one drug is either increased or decreased, but sometimes an interaction can produce an unexpected and possibly even harmful effect. Sometimes drugs are purposefully given together because the combined effect of the medications is better than either medicine alone. However, not all drug interactions are beneficial and therefore it is important for these to be identified and avoided when at all possible. Every patient should be screened for possible drug interactions each time their drug therapy is altered. Additionally, patients should try to use one pharmacy for all of their medicine needs.