Drug Interactions with aspirin and NSAIDS

Question 1

Can you take methotrexate with ibuprofen/aspirin?

Answer 1

NO

• ibuprofen - inhibits breakdown of methotrexate causing toxicity
• aspirin - displaces MTX and interferes with its clearance, increasing serum concentrations and causing toxicity (bone marrow depression)

Question 2

What cannot be taken with Lithium (used for bipolar disorder)?

Answer 2

NSAIDS

• blocks excretion of lithium, resulting in toxicity

Question 3

What does alcohol do to a patient when taking aspirin/NSAIDS?

Answer 3

Increases the risk for GI bleeding associated with aspirin and NSAIDS

Question 4

Is there an interaction with antihypertensive medications and NSAIDS or aspirin?

Answer 4

Aspirin and NSAIDS decrease the effectiveness of many common antihypertensives - monitor BP if giving NSAIDS to patients tkaing BP meds

• Diuretics
• Beta blockers
• ACE inhibitors