Drug interactions between lithium and Vioxx
| Results for the following 2 drugs: |
|---|
| lithium |
| Vioxx (rofecoxib) |
Interactions between your selected drugs
lithium ↔ rofecoxib
Applies to:lithium and Vioxx (rofecoxib)
MONITOR: Several case reports and small studies suggest that some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase serum lithium levels and increase the risk of toxicity. The exact mechanism is unknown but may involve inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis by NSAIDs. Lithium toxicity has been reported during concomitant use of indomethacin, ketorolac, mefenamic acid, and piroxicam. Lithium plasma concentrations have been shown to increase in healthy subjects or patients taking various NSAIDs including celecoxib, diflunisal, flurbiprofen, meloxicam, naproxen, and valdecoxib. Limited data suggest that sulindac may participate in the interaction to a lesser extent than do other NSAIDs. Aspirin and other salicylates do not appear to interact with lithium.
MANAGEMENT: Patients who must take lithium in combination with NSAIDs should be monitored for evidence of lithium toxicity, although clinically significant interactions are thought to be rare. More frequent monitoring of lithium levels is recommended. Patients should be advised to notify their physician if they experience potential signs and symptoms of lithium toxicity such as drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, weakness, ataxia, tremor, tinnitus, blurred vision, vomiting, diarrhea, thirst, and increased urination.
See also...
Drug Interaction Classification
The classifications below are a guideline only. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific patient is difficult to determine using this tool alone given the large number of variables that may apply.
| Major | Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit. |
| Moderate | Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances. |
| Minor | Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan. |
Do not stop taking any medications without consulting your healthcare provider.
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