How to avoid vitamin and prescription drug interactions

Nutritional supplements and prescription drugs can cause potentially dangerous drug interactions. Vonda Wright, MD, describes interactions between common vitamins and the blood thinner warfarin, as well as acne and osteoporosis drugs.

Transcript

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Bring a list of every prescription drug, over-the-counter medication, vitamin, mineral,

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and herbal supplementation you take to every doctor's visit. [MUSIC PLAYING]

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Do you take any prescription drugs? If so, it's important to watch out for potential drug interactions with nutritional supplements.

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Here are three common mixing mistakes you want to avoid. Do not take vitamin E if you're also taking

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the blood thinner warfarin. You have an increased risk of uncontrolled bleeding. Avoid taking vitamin A if you are also taking

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an oral retinoid drug for acne. That combination can raise the vitamin to toxic levels in your body because retinoids

00:51

are derived from vitamin A. Magnesium, even in the form of a multivitamin, can mess up

00:57

the absorption of bisphosphonate drugs which treat osteoporosis. Take these at least two hours apart.

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The same goes for bisphosphonates and calcium supplements. There are many different interactions

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between drugs and supplements. To be safe and smart, bring a list of every prescription

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drug, over-the-counter medication, vitamin, mineral, and herbal supplementation you take to every doctor's visit.

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You can even put everything in a bag and bring it with you. This way, your doctor won't forget to ask

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and you won't forget to mention something you're taking. [AUDIO LOGO]