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Drug Interactions between nitrofurantoin and Vagisil

This report displays the potential drug interactions for the following 2 drugs:

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Interactions between your drugs

Moderate

nitrofurantoin benzocaine topical

Applies to: nitrofurantoin and Vagisil (benzocaine / resorcinol topical)

Some of the medication in benzocaine topical may be absorbed into the bloodstream following local application. When present in sufficient concentrations in the blood, local anesthetics such as benzocaine topical may cause methemoglobinemia, a rare condition that can lead to oxygen deprivation in tissues and vital organs due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. The risk is increased when combined with other medications that can also induce methemoglobinemia such as nitrofurantoin. Individuals may be more susceptible to developing methemoglobinemia during treatment with these medications if they are very young (especially neonates and infants) or have anemia, diseases of the heart or lungs, blood circulation disorders, liver cirrhosis, shock, sepsis, and certain genetic predispositions such as NADH cytochrome-b5 reductase deficiency, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, and hemoglobin M. In addition, use of topical anesthetics on inflamed or abraded areas or broken skin, as well as excessive use such as application of large doses or on larger than recommended areas, can increase absorption and result in high blood levels of the medication. Topical anesthetics that are applied to mucous membranes such as inside the mouth, nose, or throat (e.G., for sore throat; for numbing prior to dental procedures or scoping of the lungs or gastrointestinal tract) may also be absorbed to a significant extent. Close medical supervision is necessary when medications that can cause methemoglobinemia are used together. Do not exceed the recommended dose or frequency and duration of use when treated with products that contain local anesthetics, including some over-the-counter preparations. Signs and symptoms of methemoglobinemia may be delayed by several hours after treatment with topical anesthetics. Patients (or their caregivers) should seek immediate medical attention if they develop a gray discoloration of the skin, mouth, or nail bed; nausea; headache; dizziness; lightheadedness; fatigue; shortness of breath; rapid or shallow breathing; a rapid heartbeat; palpitation; anxiety; or confusion. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

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Drug and food interactions

No alcohol/food interactions were found. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.

Therapeutic duplication warnings

No warnings were found for your selected drugs.

Therapeutic duplication warnings are only returned when drugs within the same group exceed the recommended therapeutic duplication maximum.


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Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
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.
Unknown No interaction information available.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.