PSYCHIATRIC OR EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS
Most medications for psychiatric or emotional disturbances interact with alcohol in a dangerous manner.Lithium Carbonate
Lithium regulates changes in hormone levels in the brain, balancing excitement and depression.INTERACTION--Follow the dietary and fluid intake instructions of your physician to avoid very serious toxic reactions.
MAO Inhibitors
MAO Inhibitors are used primarily to treat depression.Some commonly used MAO Inhibitors:
- isocarboxazid/Marplan
- phenelzine/Nardil
- tranylcypromine/Parnate
INTERACTION--A very dangerous, potentially fatal interaction can occur with foods containing tyramine, a chemical in alcoholic beverages, particularly wine, and in many foods such as hard cheeses, chocolate, beef or chicken livers. Be sure to follow physician's instructions.
SLEEP DISTURBANCES
Do not use alcohol with any sleep medications.STOMACH AND INTESTINAL PROBLEMS
Cimetidine, Famotidine, Ranitidine
These medications are prescribe to treat ulcers. They work by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach.Some commonly used brand names:
- cimetidine/Tagamet
- famotidine/Pepcid
- ranitidine/Zantac
INTERACTION--Follow the diet your doctors orders.
Laxatives
Some laxatives stimulate the action of muscles lining the large intestine. Other types of laxatives soften the stool, or add bulk or fluid to help food pass through the system.INTERACTION--Most laxatives are available without prescriptions. Excessive use of laxatives can cause loss of essential vitamins and minerals and may require replenishment of potassium, sodium and other nutrients through diet. Mineral oil can cause poor absorption of some vitamins. Discuss the use of laxatives with your doctor or pharmacist.
You can find out more about drug interactions by contacting the following organization:
Food and Drug Administration Reproduced from the Office on Women's Health; Department of Health and Human Services.
