FOOD-FOOD AND FOOD-DRUG INTERACTIONS

INTRODUCTION: Herbal and vitamin supplements can have powerful effects on the body that can influence the effectiveness of prescription drug therapy. In some cases, OTC supplements can enhance the effects of prescription drugs; in other instances, supplements may cancel the therapeutic effects of a medication. For example, many patients with heart disease take garlic supplements in addition to warfarin (Coumadin) to prevent the potential for clots forming. Because garlic and warfarin are both anticoagulants, taking them together could result in abnormal bleeding. As another example, high doses of calcium supplements may cancel the beneficial antihypertensive effects of drugs such as nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker. Few controlled studies have examined how concurrent use of natural supplements affects the therapeutic effects of prescription drugs. Patients should be encouraged to report use of all OTC dietary supplements to their health care provider.

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