Think you know all you need to about the prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements you take every day? Maybe not. For instance, did you know that taking coenzyme Q10 can make blood thinners less effective? Or that popping an aspirin while taking gingko supplements could put you at risk of excess bleeding? Or that taking the B vitamin niacin with cholesterol-lowering statins can cause muscle injury? If not, you’re far from alone. More than two million of us may be taking medications and/or supplements right now that could cause harmful interactions, according to a recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Indeed, 175,000 folks end up in the E.R. every year because they aren’t aware about dangerous drug and supplement interactions. To protect yourself: Look up all potential interactions of the prescriptions, OTC drugs, supplements and vitamins you’re taking at drugs.com/drug_interactions.php. Forgot what one of your pills is for? Identify it by color, shape and markings at drugs.com/pill_identification.html.
Tip: Ask this pro for free drug info: your pharmacist. Bring a list of all the medications and supplements you’re taking and she or he will be happy to search medical databases to find out if there are any potential harmful interactions.
[photo: DraconianRain]
