Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: Although aspirin is routinely given with glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors, be cognizant of the increased risk of bleeding associated with this combination due to the additive inhibitory effects of salicylates on platelet function. Arterial puncture sites may be most problematic.

MANAGEMENT: It is recommended that these drugs be used together only when indicated by skilled personnel who are qualified and equipped to detect and treat bleeding complications. Patients should be closely monitored for signs of bleeding, especially at arterial puncture sites. Therapy should be discontinued immediately if serious or uncontrollable bleeding or thrombocytopenia occurs.

GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may potentiate some of the pharmacologic effects of CNS-active agents. Use in combination may result in additive central nervous system depression and/or impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills.

MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving CNS-active agents should be warned of this interaction and advised to avoid or limit consumption of alcohol. Ambulatory patients should be counseled to avoid hazardous activities requiring complete mental alertness and motor coordination until they know how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they experience excessive or prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.

GENERALLY AVOID: The concurrent use of aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and ethanol may lead to gastrointestinal (GI) blood loss. The mechanism may be due to a combined local effect as well as inhibition of prostaglandins leading to decreased integrity of the GI lining.

MANAGEMENT: Patients should be counseled on this potential interaction and advised to refrain from alcohol consumption while taking aspirin or NSAIDs.