Supplement-Drug Interactions Warning

SALT LAKE CITYMany of the most popular dietary supplements can interact with prescription drugs, including possible fatal consequences, according to twin studies conducted at Utahs Intermountain Medical Center. The team of cardiologists and dietitians interviewed 100 patients on warfarin, an anticoagulant drug used to help prevent stroke. They learned 69 percent of subjects also used dietary supplements, especially vitamins, glucosamine and chondroitin, fish oil and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). More than half did not know about possible interactions, and nearly two-thirds did not consult with or inform their doctors about the supplement use. Researchers further discovered supplement users on warfarin were more likely to skip or double doses of the drug, and they also more frequently experienced drug interactions, such as unexplained bleeding and increased need for blood transfusions.

 Researcher T. Jared Bunch, M.D., a cardiologist, noted the drugs and supplements all compete in the liver for processing; for example, CoQ10, a favorite among cardio patients, can inhibit warfarins benefits and increase stroke risk, while fish oil can increase the risk of unwanted bleeding. He added health care and products providers need to better educate people on the possible interactions between drugs and supplements.

Fellow researchers John Day, M.D., also a cardiologist, added health care providers need to be aware of the supplements their patients are taking, especially if concurrent with prescribed medications. Were not saying dietary supplements are bad. Were saying they should be considered medications, he said. And its critical that health providers know what medications their patients are taking.