Interactions between Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) and Heparin flush

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Alcoholism.

Salicylates, particularly aspirin, can cause dose-related gastrointestinal bleeding and mucosal damage, which may occur independently of each other. Occult, often asymptomatic GI blood loss is quite common with usual dosages of aspirin and stems from the drug's local effect on the GI mucosa. During chronic therapy, this type of bleeding may occasionally produce iron deficiency anemia. In contrast, major upper GI bleeding rarely occurs except in patients with active peptic ulcers or recent GI bleeding. However, these patients generally do not experience greater occult blood loss than healthy patients following small doses of aspirin. Mucosal damage associated with the use of salicylates may lead to development of peptic ulcers with or without bleeding, reactivation of latent ulcers, and ulcer perforation. Therapy with salicylates and related agents such as salicylamide should be considered and administered cautiously in patients with a history of GI disease or alcoholism, particularly if they are elderly and/or debilitated, since such patients may be more susceptible to the GI toxicity of these drugs and seem to tolerate ulceration and bleeding less well than other individuals. Extreme caution and thorough assessment of risks and benefits are warranted in patients with active or recent GI bleeding or lesions. Whenever possible, especially if prolonged use is anticipated, treatment with non-ulcerogenic agents should be attempted first. If salicylates are used, close monitoring for toxicity is recommended. Some adverse GI effects may be minimized by administration with high dosages of antacids, use of enteric-coated or extended-release formulations, and/or concurrent use of a histamine H2-receptor antagonist or a cytoprotective agent such as misoprostol. Patients with active peptic ulceration or GI bleeding treated with salicylates should generally be administered a concomitant anti-ulcer regimen.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with Anemia.

Occult, often asymptomatic GI blood loss occurs quite frequently with the use of normal dosages of aspirin and stems from the drug's local effect on the GI mucosa. During chronic therapy, this type of bleeding may occasionally produce iron deficiency anemia. Other salicylates reportedly cause little or no GI blood loss at usual dosages, but may do so at high dosages. Prolonged therapy with salicylates, particularly aspirin, should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to anemia. Periodic monitoring of hematocrit is recommended. The same precautions should also be observed with the use of related agents such as salicylamide because of their structural and pharmacological similarities to salicylate.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Asthma.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are contraindicated in patients with history of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs; severe, sometimes fatal, anaphylactic reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients. A subpopulation of patients with asthma may have aspirin-sensitive asthma which may include chronic rhinosinusitis complicated by nasal polyps, severe potentially fatal bronchospasm, and/or intolerance to aspirin and other NSAIDs. Since cross-reactivity between aspirin and other NSAIDs has been reported in such aspirin-sensitive patients, therapy with any NSAID should be avoided in patients with this form of aspirin sensitivity. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with preexisting asthma (without known aspirin sensitivity), and these patients should be monitored for changes in the signs and symptoms of asthma.

The chlorpheniramine in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with Asthma.

It has been suggested that the anticholinergic effect of antihistamines may reduce the volume and cause thickening of bronchial secretions, resulting in obstruction of respiratory tract. Some manufacturers and clinicians recommend that therapy with antihistamines be administered cautiously in patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Bleeding Disorder.

The use of aspirin is contraindicated in patients with significant active bleeding or hemorrhagic disorders such as hemophilia, von Willebrand's disease, or telangiectasia. Aspirin interferes with coagulation by irreversibly inhibiting platelet aggregation and prolonging bleeding time. The non-aceylated salicylates (i.e. salicylate salts such as sodium or magnesium salicylate) do not demonstrate these effects and may be appropriate substitutions in these patients. However, all salicylates can interfere with the action of vitamin K and induce a dose-dependent alteration in hepatic synthesis of coagulation factors VII, IX and X. At usual recommended dosages, a slight increase in prothrombin time (PT) may occur. Therapy with salicylates, especially aspirin, should be administered with extreme caution in patients with hypoprothrombinemia, vitamin K deficiency, thrombocytopenia, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, severe hepatic impairment, or anticoagulant use.

Heparin flush has a major potential interaction with Bleeding Disorder.

Anticoagulants are contraindicated in patients with active major bleeding or those patients at risk for hemorrhage. Hemorrhage due to heparin derivatives may be treated with protamine sulfate 1%. However, protamine sulfate may not completely neutralize the anti- Factor Xa activity.

The chlorpheniramine in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with Cardiovascular Conditions and Disorders.

Antihistamines may infrequently cause cardiovascular adverse effects related to their anticholinergic and local anesthetic (quinidine-like) activities. Tachycardia, palpitation, ECG changes, arrhythmias, hypotension, and hypertension have been reported. Although these effects are uncommon and usually limited to overdosage situations, the manufacturers and some clinicians recommend that therapy with antihistamines be administered cautiously in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and/or hyperthyroidism.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Coagulation Defects and Disorders.

The use of aspirin is contraindicated in patients with significant active bleeding or hemorrhagic disorders such as hemophilia, von Willebrand's disease, or telangiectasia. Aspirin interferes with coagulation by irreversibly inhibiting platelet aggregation and prolonging bleeding time. The non-aceylated salicylates (i.e. salicylate salts such as sodium or magnesium salicylate) do not demonstrate these effects and may be appropriate substitutions in these patients. However, all salicylates can interfere with the action of vitamin K and induce a dose-dependent alteration in hepatic synthesis of coagulation factors VII, IX and X. At usual recommended dosages, a slight increase in prothrombin time (PT) may occur. Therapy with salicylates, especially aspirin, should be administered with extreme caution in patients with hypoprothrombinemia, vitamin K deficiency, thrombocytopenia, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, severe hepatic impairment, or anticoagulant use.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Colonic Ulceration.

Salicylates, particularly aspirin, can cause dose-related gastrointestinal bleeding and mucosal damage, which may occur independently of each other. Occult, often asymptomatic GI blood loss is quite common with usual dosages of aspirin and stems from the drug's local effect on the GI mucosa. During chronic therapy, this type of bleeding may occasionally produce iron deficiency anemia. In contrast, major upper GI bleeding rarely occurs except in patients with active peptic ulcers or recent GI bleeding. However, these patients generally do not experience greater occult blood loss than healthy patients following small doses of aspirin. Mucosal damage associated with the use of salicylates may lead to development of peptic ulcers with or without bleeding, reactivation of latent ulcers, and ulcer perforation. Therapy with salicylates and related agents such as salicylamide should be considered and administered cautiously in patients with a history of GI disease or alcoholism, particularly if they are elderly and/or debilitated, since such patients may be more susceptible to the GI toxicity of these drugs and seem to tolerate ulceration and bleeding less well than other individuals. Extreme caution and thorough assessment of risks and benefits are warranted in patients with active or recent GI bleeding or lesions. Whenever possible, especially if prolonged use is anticipated, treatment with non-ulcerogenic agents should be attempted first. If salicylates are used, close monitoring for toxicity is recommended. Some adverse GI effects may be minimized by administration with high dosages of antacids, use of enteric-coated or extended-release formulations, and/or concurrent use of a histamine H2-receptor antagonist or a cytoprotective agent such as misoprostol. Patients with active peptic ulceration or GI bleeding treated with salicylates should generally be administered a concomitant anti-ulcer regimen.

The chlorpheniramine in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with COPD.

It has been suggested that the anticholinergic effect of antihistamines may reduce the volume and cause thickening of bronchial secretions, resulting in obstruction of respiratory tract. Some manufacturers and clinicians recommend that therapy with antihistamines be administered cautiously in patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with G-6-PD Deficiency.

Salicylates, particularly aspirin, may cause or aggravate hemolysis in patients with pyruvate kinase or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency. However, this effect has not been clearly established. Until more data are available, therapy with salicylates should be administered cautiously in patients with G-6-PD deficiency. The same precaution should also be observed with the use of related agents such as salicylamide because of their structural and pharmacological similarities to salicylate.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Gastritis/Duodenitis.

Salicylates, particularly aspirin, can cause dose-related gastrointestinal bleeding and mucosal damage, which may occur independently of each other. Occult, often asymptomatic GI blood loss is quite common with usual dosages of aspirin and stems from the drug's local effect on the GI mucosa. During chronic therapy, this type of bleeding may occasionally produce iron deficiency anemia. In contrast, major upper GI bleeding rarely occurs except in patients with active peptic ulcers or recent GI bleeding. However, these patients generally do not experience greater occult blood loss than healthy patients following small doses of aspirin. Mucosal damage associated with the use of salicylates may lead to development of peptic ulcers with or without bleeding, reactivation of latent ulcers, and ulcer perforation. Therapy with salicylates and related agents such as salicylamide should be considered and administered cautiously in patients with a history of GI disease or alcoholism, particularly if they are elderly and/or debilitated, since such patients may be more susceptible to the GI toxicity of these drugs and seem to tolerate ulceration and bleeding less well than other individuals. Extreme caution and thorough assessment of risks and benefits are warranted in patients with active or recent GI bleeding or lesions. Whenever possible, especially if prolonged use is anticipated, treatment with non-ulcerogenic agents should be attempted first. If salicylates are used, close monitoring for toxicity is recommended. Some adverse GI effects may be minimized by administration with high dosages of antacids, use of enteric-coated or extended-release formulations, and/or concurrent use of a histamine H2-receptor antagonist or a cytoprotective agent such as misoprostol. Patients with active peptic ulceration or GI bleeding treated with salicylates should generally be administered a concomitant anti-ulcer regimen.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage.

Salicylates, particularly aspirin, can cause dose-related gastrointestinal bleeding and mucosal damage, which may occur independently of each other. Occult, often asymptomatic GI blood loss is quite common with usual dosages of aspirin and stems from the drug's local effect on the GI mucosa. During chronic therapy, this type of bleeding may occasionally produce iron deficiency anemia. In contrast, major upper GI bleeding rarely occurs except in patients with active peptic ulcers or recent GI bleeding. However, these patients generally do not experience greater occult blood loss than healthy patients following small doses of aspirin. Mucosal damage associated with the use of salicylates may lead to development of peptic ulcers with or without bleeding, reactivation of latent ulcers, and ulcer perforation. Therapy with salicylates and related agents such as salicylamide should be considered and administered cautiously in patients with a history of GI disease or alcoholism, particularly if they are elderly and/or debilitated, since such patients may be more susceptible to the GI toxicity of these drugs and seem to tolerate ulceration and bleeding less well than other individuals. Extreme caution and thorough assessment of risks and benefits are warranted in patients with active or recent GI bleeding or lesions. Whenever possible, especially if prolonged use is anticipated, treatment with non-ulcerogenic agents should be attempted first. If salicylates are used, close monitoring for toxicity is recommended. Some adverse GI effects may be minimized by administration with high dosages of antacids, use of enteric-coated or extended-release formulations, and/or concurrent use of a histamine H2-receptor antagonist or a cytoprotective agent such as misoprostol. Patients with active peptic ulceration or GI bleeding treated with salicylates should generally be administered a concomitant anti-ulcer regimen.

The chlorpheniramine in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with Gastrointestinal Obstruction.

Antihistamines often have anticholinergic activity, to which elderly patients are particularly sensitive. Therapy with antihistamines should be administered cautiously, if at all, in patients with preexisting conditions that are likely to be exacerbated by anticholinergic activity, such as urinary retention or obstruction; angle-closure glaucoma, untreated intraocular hypertension, or uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma; and gastrointestinal obstructive disorders. Conventional, first-generation antihistamines such as the ethanolamines (bromodiphenhydramine, carbinoxamine, clemastine, dimenhydrinate, diphenhydramine, doxylamine, phenyltoloxamine) tend to exhibit substantial anticholinergic effects. In contrast, the newer, relatively nonsedating antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, fexofenadine, loratadine) reportedly have low to minimal anticholinergic activity at normally recommended dosages and may be appropriate alternatives.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Gastrointestinal Perforation.

Salicylates, particularly aspirin, can cause dose-related gastrointestinal bleeding and mucosal damage, which may occur independently of each other. Occult, often asymptomatic GI blood loss is quite common with usual dosages of aspirin and stems from the drug's local effect on the GI mucosa. During chronic therapy, this type of bleeding may occasionally produce iron deficiency anemia. In contrast, major upper GI bleeding rarely occurs except in patients with active peptic ulcers or recent GI bleeding. However, these patients generally do not experience greater occult blood loss than healthy patients following small doses of aspirin. Mucosal damage associated with the use of salicylates may lead to development of peptic ulcers with or without bleeding, reactivation of latent ulcers, and ulcer perforation. Therapy with salicylates and related agents such as salicylamide should be considered and administered cautiously in patients with a history of GI disease or alcoholism, particularly if they are elderly and/or debilitated, since such patients may be more susceptible to the GI toxicity of these drugs and seem to tolerate ulceration and bleeding less well than other individuals. Extreme caution and thorough assessment of risks and benefits are warranted in patients with active or recent GI bleeding or lesions. Whenever possible, especially if prolonged use is anticipated, treatment with non-ulcerogenic agents should be attempted first. If salicylates are used, close monitoring for toxicity is recommended. Some adverse GI effects may be minimized by administration with high dosages of antacids, use of enteric-coated or extended-release formulations, and/or concurrent use of a histamine H2-receptor antagonist or a cytoprotective agent such as misoprostol. Patients with active peptic ulceration or GI bleeding treated with salicylates should generally be administered a concomitant anti-ulcer regimen.

The chlorpheniramine in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with Glaucoma/Intraocular Hypertension.

Antihistamines often have anticholinergic activity, to which elderly patients are particularly sensitive. Therapy with antihistamines should be administered cautiously, if at all, in patients with preexisting conditions that are likely to be exacerbated by anticholinergic activity, such as urinary retention or obstruction; angle-closure glaucoma, untreated intraocular hypertension, or uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma; and gastrointestinal obstructive disorders. Conventional, first-generation antihistamines such as the ethanolamines (bromodiphenhydramine, carbinoxamine, clemastine, dimenhydrinate, diphenhydramine, doxylamine, phenyltoloxamine) tend to exhibit substantial anticholinergic effects. In contrast, the newer, relatively nonsedating antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, fexofenadine, loratadine) reportedly have low to minimal anticholinergic activity at normally recommended dosages and may be appropriate alternatives.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with Hemodialysis.

Salicylate and its metabolites are readily removed by hemodialysis and, to a lesser extent, by peritoneal dialysis. Doses should either be scheduled for administration after dialysis or supplemental doses be given after dialysis.

Heparin flush has a major potential interaction with Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia.

The use of heparin is contraindicated in patients with severe thrombocytopenia. Acute thrombocytopenia can occur in patients receiving heparin, with a reported incidence of up to 30%. Platelet counts should be obtained before and periodically during heparin administration, including regular and repeated use of heparin flush solutions if given for longer than 5 days. Mild thrombocytopenia with counts above 100,000/mm3 may remain stable or reverse despite continued heparin administration. However, thrombocytopenia of any degree should be closely monitored. Therapy should be discontinued if the count falls below 100,000/mm3 or if recurrent thrombosis develops, and an alternative, nonheparin anticoagulant (e.g., argatroban, bivalirudin, lepirudin) administered if necessary. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a serious antibody-mediated reaction resulting from irreversible aggregation of platelets. HIT may progress to the development of venous and arterial thromboses, a condition referred to as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HITT). Thrombotic events may also be the initial presentation for HITT, and may include deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, cerebral vein thrombosis, limb ischemia, stroke, myocardial infarction, mesenteric thrombosis, renal artery thrombosis, skin necrosis, gangrene of the extremities that may lead to amputation, and possibly death. Both HIT and HITT can occur up to several weeks after the discontinuation of heparin therapy. Patients presenting with thrombocytopenia or thrombosis after discontinuation of heparin should be evaluated for HIT and HITT. Following an episode, any future use of heparin should be avoided, and use of low-molecular weight heparin should consider the potential for cross-reactivity with the HIT antibody and approached with extreme caution, if not otherwise contraindicated.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with History, Peptic Ulcer.

Salicylates, particularly aspirin, can cause dose-related gastrointestinal bleeding and mucosal damage, which may occur independently of each other. Occult, often asymptomatic GI blood loss is quite common with usual dosages of aspirin and stems from the drug's local effect on the GI mucosa. During chronic therapy, this type of bleeding may occasionally produce iron deficiency anemia. In contrast, major upper GI bleeding rarely occurs except in patients with active peptic ulcers or recent GI bleeding. However, these patients generally do not experience greater occult blood loss than healthy patients following small doses of aspirin. Mucosal damage associated with the use of salicylates may lead to development of peptic ulcers with or without bleeding, reactivation of latent ulcers, and ulcer perforation. Therapy with salicylates and related agents such as salicylamide should be considered and administered cautiously in patients with a history of GI disease or alcoholism, particularly if they are elderly and/or debilitated, since such patients may be more susceptible to the GI toxicity of these drugs and seem to tolerate ulceration and bleeding less well than other individuals. Extreme caution and thorough assessment of risks and benefits are warranted in patients with active or recent GI bleeding or lesions. Whenever possible, especially if prolonged use is anticipated, treatment with non-ulcerogenic agents should be attempted first. If salicylates are used, close monitoring for toxicity is recommended. Some adverse GI effects may be minimized by administration with high dosages of antacids, use of enteric-coated or extended-release formulations, and/or concurrent use of a histamine H2-receptor antagonist or a cytoprotective agent such as misoprostol. Patients with active peptic ulceration or GI bleeding treated with salicylates should generally be administered a concomitant anti-ulcer regimen.

The chlorpheniramine in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with Hyperthyroidism.

Antihistamines may infrequently cause cardiovascular adverse effects related to their anticholinergic and local anesthetic (quinidine-like) activities. Tachycardia, palpitation, ECG changes, arrhythmias, hypotension, and hypertension have been reported. Although these effects are uncommon and usually limited to overdosage situations, the manufacturers and some clinicians recommend that therapy with antihistamines be administered cautiously in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and/or hyperthyroidism.

The chlorpheniramine in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with Hypotension.

Antihistamines may infrequently cause cardiovascular adverse effects related to their anticholinergic and local anesthetic (quinidine-like) activities. Tachycardia, palpitation, ECG changes, arrhythmias, hypotension, and hypertension have been reported. Although these effects are uncommon and usually limited to overdosage situations, the manufacturers and some clinicians recommend that therapy with antihistamines be administered cautiously in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and/or hyperthyroidism.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Influenza.

The use of salicylates, primarily aspirin, in children with varicella infections or influenza-like illnesses has been associated with an increased risk of Reye's syndrome. Although a causal relationship has not been established, the majority of evidence to date seems to support the association. Most authorities, including the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Infectious Diseases, recommend avoiding the use of salicylates in children and teenagers with known or suspected varicella or influenza and during presumed outbreaks of influenza. If antipyretic or analgesic therapy is indicated under these circumstances, acetaminophen may be an appropriate alternative. The same precautions should also be observed with related agents such as salicylamide or diflunisal because of their structural and pharmacological similarities to salicylate.

The chlorpheniramine in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.

Limited pharmacokinetic data are available for the older, first-generation antihistamines. Many appear to be primarily metabolized by the liver, and both parent drugs and metabolites are excreted in the urine. Patients with renal and/or liver disease may be at greater risk for adverse effects from antihistamines due to drug and metabolite accumulation. Therapy with antihistamines should be administered cautiously in such patients. Lower initial dosages may be appropriate.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.

The use of salicylates has occasionally been associated with acute, reversible hepatotoxicity, primarily manifested as elevations of serum transaminases, alkaline phosphatase and/or, rarely, bilirubin. Hepatic injury consistent with chronic active hepatitis has also been reported in a few patients, which resulted rarely in encephalopathy or death. Salicylate-induced hepatotoxicity appears to be dependent on serum salicylate concentration (> 25 mg/dL) and has occurred most frequently in patients with juvenile arthritis, active systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatic fever, or preexisting hepatic impairment. Therapy with salicylates, particularly when given in high dosages, should be administered cautiously in these patients, and periodic monitoring of liver function is recommended. The same precautions should also be observed with the use of related agents such as salicylamide because of their structural and pharmacological similarities to salicylate. A dosage reduction may be necessary if liver function abnormalities develop and serum salicylate concentration exceeds 25 mg/dL, although serum transaminase elevations may sometimes be transient and return to pretreatment values despite continued therapy without dosage adjustment.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Noninfectious Colitis.

Salicylates, particularly aspirin, can cause dose-related gastrointestinal bleeding and mucosal damage, which may occur independently of each other. Occult, often asymptomatic GI blood loss is quite common with usual dosages of aspirin and stems from the drug's local effect on the GI mucosa. During chronic therapy, this type of bleeding may occasionally produce iron deficiency anemia. In contrast, major upper GI bleeding rarely occurs except in patients with active peptic ulcers or recent GI bleeding. However, these patients generally do not experience greater occult blood loss than healthy patients following small doses of aspirin. Mucosal damage associated with the use of salicylates may lead to development of peptic ulcers with or without bleeding, reactivation of latent ulcers, and ulcer perforation. Therapy with salicylates and related agents such as salicylamide should be considered and administered cautiously in patients with a history of GI disease or alcoholism, particularly if they are elderly and/or debilitated, since such patients may be more susceptible to the GI toxicity of these drugs and seem to tolerate ulceration and bleeding less well than other individuals. Extreme caution and thorough assessment of risks and benefits are warranted in patients with active or recent GI bleeding or lesions. Whenever possible, especially if prolonged use is anticipated, treatment with non-ulcerogenic agents should be attempted first. If salicylates are used, close monitoring for toxicity is recommended. Some adverse GI effects may be minimized by administration with high dosages of antacids, use of enteric-coated or extended-release formulations, and/or concurrent use of a histamine H2-receptor antagonist or a cytoprotective agent such as misoprostol. Patients with active peptic ulceration or GI bleeding treated with salicylates should generally be administered a concomitant anti-ulcer regimen.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Peptic Ulcer.

Salicylates, particularly aspirin, can cause dose-related gastrointestinal bleeding and mucosal damage, which may occur independently of each other. Occult, often asymptomatic GI blood loss is quite common with usual dosages of aspirin and stems from the drug's local effect on the GI mucosa. During chronic therapy, this type of bleeding may occasionally produce iron deficiency anemia. In contrast, major upper GI bleeding rarely occurs except in patients with active peptic ulcers or recent GI bleeding. However, these patients generally do not experience greater occult blood loss than healthy patients following small doses of aspirin. Mucosal damage associated with the use of salicylates may lead to development of peptic ulcers with or without bleeding, reactivation of latent ulcers, and ulcer perforation. Therapy with salicylates and related agents such as salicylamide should be considered and administered cautiously in patients with a history of GI disease or alcoholism, particularly if they are elderly and/or debilitated, since such patients may be more susceptible to the GI toxicity of these drugs and seem to tolerate ulceration and bleeding less well than other individuals. Extreme caution and thorough assessment of risks and benefits are warranted in patients with active or recent GI bleeding or lesions. Whenever possible, especially if prolonged use is anticipated, treatment with non-ulcerogenic agents should be attempted first. If salicylates are used, close monitoring for toxicity is recommended. Some adverse GI effects may be minimized by administration with high dosages of antacids, use of enteric-coated or extended-release formulations, and/or concurrent use of a histamine H2-receptor antagonist or a cytoprotective agent such as misoprostol. Patients with active peptic ulceration or GI bleeding treated with salicylates should generally be administered a concomitant anti-ulcer regimen.

Heparin flush has a major potential interaction with Prematurity/Underweight in Infancy.

The use of certain heparin sodium injections and heparin lock flush solutions is considered by the manufacturers to be contraindicated in premature infants and infants of low birth weight. Some formulations of these drugs contain benzyl alcohol which, in bacteriostatic saline intravascular flush and endotracheal tube lavage solutions, has been associated with fatalities and severe respiratory and metabolic complications in low-birthweight premature infants. Symptoms include a striking onset of gasping respiration, hypotension, bradycardia, and cardiovascular collapse. The manufacturers further recommend that use of these products be avoided in all neonates whenever possible. Neonates requiring heparin lock flush solution should be given a preservative-free formulation. Nevertheless, many experts feel that, in the absence of benzyl alcohol-free equivalents, the amount of the preservative present in these formulations should not necessarily preclude their use if they are clearly indicated. The American Academy of Pediatrics considers benzyl alcohol in low doses (such as when used as a preservative in some medications) to be safe for newborns.

The use of heparin for maintaining patency of umbilical artery catheters may be associated with an increased risk of germinal matrix intraventricular hemorrhage in low-birthweight neonates. Although a definitive causal relationship has not been established, caution may be appropriate when heparin lock flush solutions are used.

Due to the risk of overdose, heparin lock flush solutions containing 100 units/mL should not be used in neonates, particularly those who are premature or have low birthweight.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Salicylate and its metabolites are eliminated almost entirely by the kidney. Therapy with salicylate drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with renal impairment, especially if it is severe. Reduced dosages may be necessary to avoid drug accumulation. Clinical monitoring of renal function is recommended during prolonged therapy, since the use of salicylate drugs has rarely been associated with renal toxicities, including elevations in serum creatinine, renal papillary necrosis, and acute tubular necrosis with renal failure. Most of the data have been derived from experience with aspirin but may apply to other salicylates as well. In patients with impaired renal function, aspirin has caused reversible and sometimes marked decreases in renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate. Adverse renal effects have usually reversed rapidly following withdrawal of aspirin therapy.

The chlorpheniramine in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Limited pharmacokinetic data are available for the older, first-generation antihistamines. Many appear to be primarily metabolized by the liver, and both parent drugs and metabolites are excreted in the urine. Patients with renal and/or liver disease may be at greater risk for adverse effects from antihistamines due to drug and metabolite accumulation. Therapy with antihistamines should be administered cautiously in such patients. Lower initial dosages may be appropriate.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Thrombocytopathy.

The use of aspirin is contraindicated in patients with significant active bleeding or hemorrhagic disorders such as hemophilia, von Willebrand's disease, or telangiectasia. Aspirin interferes with coagulation by irreversibly inhibiting platelet aggregation and prolonging bleeding time. The non-aceylated salicylates (i.e. salicylate salts such as sodium or magnesium salicylate) do not demonstrate these effects and may be appropriate substitutions in these patients. However, all salicylates can interfere with the action of vitamin K and induce a dose-dependent alteration in hepatic synthesis of coagulation factors VII, IX and X. At usual recommended dosages, a slight increase in prothrombin time (PT) may occur. Therapy with salicylates, especially aspirin, should be administered with extreme caution in patients with hypoprothrombinemia, vitamin K deficiency, thrombocytopenia, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, severe hepatic impairment, or anticoagulant use.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Thrombocytopenia.

The use of aspirin is contraindicated in patients with significant active bleeding or hemorrhagic disorders such as hemophilia, von Willebrand's disease, or telangiectasia. Aspirin interferes with coagulation by irreversibly inhibiting platelet aggregation and prolonging bleeding time. The non-aceylated salicylates (i.e. salicylate salts such as sodium or magnesium salicylate) do not demonstrate these effects and may be appropriate substitutions in these patients. However, all salicylates can interfere with the action of vitamin K and induce a dose-dependent alteration in hepatic synthesis of coagulation factors VII, IX and X. At usual recommended dosages, a slight increase in prothrombin time (PT) may occur. Therapy with salicylates, especially aspirin, should be administered with extreme caution in patients with hypoprothrombinemia, vitamin K deficiency, thrombocytopenia, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, severe hepatic impairment, or anticoagulant use.

Heparin flush has a major potential interaction with Thrombocytopenia.

The use of heparin is contraindicated in patients with severe thrombocytopenia. Acute thrombocytopenia can occur in patients receiving heparin, with a reported incidence of up to 30%. Platelet counts should be obtained before and periodically during heparin administration, including regular and repeated use of heparin flush solutions if given for longer than 5 days. Mild thrombocytopenia with counts above 100,000/mm3 may remain stable or reverse despite continued heparin administration. However, thrombocytopenia of any degree should be closely monitored. Therapy should be discontinued if the count falls below 100,000/mm3 or if recurrent thrombosis develops, and an alternative, nonheparin anticoagulant (e.g., argatroban, bivalirudin, lepirudin) administered if necessary. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a serious antibody-mediated reaction resulting from irreversible aggregation of platelets. HIT may progress to the development of venous and arterial thromboses, a condition referred to as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HITT). Thrombotic events may also be the initial presentation for HITT, and may include deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, cerebral vein thrombosis, limb ischemia, stroke, myocardial infarction, mesenteric thrombosis, renal artery thrombosis, skin necrosis, gangrene of the extremities that may lead to amputation, and possibly death. Both HIT and HITT can occur up to several weeks after the discontinuation of heparin therapy. Patients presenting with thrombocytopenia or thrombosis after discontinuation of heparin should be evaluated for HIT and HITT. Following an episode, any future use of heparin should be avoided, and use of low-molecular weight heparin should consider the potential for cross-reactivity with the HIT antibody and approached with extreme caution, if not otherwise contraindicated.

The chlorpheniramine in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a moderate potential interaction with Urinary Retention.

Antihistamines often have anticholinergic activity, to which elderly patients are particularly sensitive. Therapy with antihistamines should be administered cautiously, if at all, in patients with preexisting conditions that are likely to be exacerbated by anticholinergic activity, such as urinary retention or obstruction; angle-closure glaucoma, untreated intraocular hypertension, or uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma; and gastrointestinal obstructive disorders. Conventional, first-generation antihistamines such as the ethanolamines (bromodiphenhydramine, carbinoxamine, clemastine, dimenhydrinate, diphenhydramine, doxylamine, phenyltoloxamine) tend to exhibit substantial anticholinergic effects. In contrast, the newer, relatively nonsedating antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, fexofenadine, loratadine) reportedly have low to minimal anticholinergic activity at normally recommended dosages and may be appropriate alternatives.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Varicella-Zoster.

The use of salicylates, primarily aspirin, in children with varicella infections or influenza-like illnesses has been associated with an increased risk of Reye's syndrome. Although a causal relationship has not been established, the majority of evidence to date seems to support the association. Most authorities, including the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Infectious Diseases, recommend avoiding the use of salicylates in children and teenagers with known or suspected varicella or influenza and during presumed outbreaks of influenza. If antipyretic or analgesic therapy is indicated under these circumstances, acetaminophen may be an appropriate alternative. The same precautions should also be observed with related agents such as salicylamide or diflunisal because of their structural and pharmacological similarities to salicylate.

The aspirin in Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu Formula (old formulation) has a major potential interaction with Vitamin K Deficiency.

The use of aspirin is contraindicated in patients with significant active bleeding or hemorrhagic disorders such as hemophilia, von Willebrand's disease, or telangiectasia. Aspirin interferes with coagulation by irreversibly inhibiting platelet aggregation and prolonging bleeding time. The non-aceylated salicylates (i.e. salicylate salts such as sodium or magnesium salicylate) do not demonstrate these effects and may be appropriate substitutions in these patients. However, all salicylates can interfere with the action of vitamin K and induce a dose-dependent alteration in hepatic synthesis of coagulation factors VII, IX and X. At usual recommended dosages, a slight increase in prothrombin time (PT) may occur. Therapy with salicylates, especially aspirin, should be administered with extreme caution in patients with hypoprothrombinemia, vitamin K deficiency, thrombocytopenia, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, severe hepatic impairment, or anticoagulant use.