What it means
An effect that happens because two substances are taken together. One may make the other stronger, weaker or longer-lasting, or the two may add up to a harmful effect. Examples: warfarin with aspirin raises bleeding risk; grapefruit juice raises the level of some drugs; two sedating drugs together slow breathing; antacids can block absorption of some antibiotics. Herbal products such as St. John's wort cause many interactions.
For the nurse
Ask about every medicine, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and herbal products, and check for interactions before giving a new drug. Teach the client which foods or drinks to avoid with their medicines.
At a glance
| Spanish | interacción farmacológica |
|---|---|
| Also written | drug interactions, drug-drug interaction, drug-drug interactions |
Related terms
side effect
An effect of a drug, other than the one it is given for, that is known and expected to happen in some people.
adverse effect
An unwanted and harmful effect of a drug or treatment given at a normal dose.
pharmacokinetics
How the body takes in, spreads, changes and gets rid of a drug over time.
polypharmacy
The use of many medicines at the same time by one person, often defined as five or more.