Drug Interaction Report

Concurrent administration with aluminum and magnesium antacids has been shown to decrease the oral bioavailability of certain beta-blockers, although data are conflicting. The exact mechanism of interaction is unknown but may involve cation binding of beta-blockers or a reduction in the dissolution rate due to increased gastric pH. In six healthy volunteers, concomitant administration of a single dose of antacid (magnesium hydroxide-aluminum oxide 1200 mg-1800 mg) reduced the peak plasma concentration (Cmax), area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) and 24-hour urinary excretion of sotalol (160 mg) by 27%, 21% and 9%, respectively, while administration of the antacid 2 hours after the sotalol dose produced no change. Pharmacodynamic data suggest that the negative chronotropic effect of sotalol was also reduced up to 4 hours after administration of the combination, although the lack of a placebo control might have confounded the results. In another study, concomitant administration of an aluminum hydroxide antacid in six healthy volunteers decreased atenolol (100 mg) Cmax and AUC by 37% and 33%, respectively. However, the Cmax and AUC of metoprolol (100 mg) in the same group was increased 25% and 11%, respectively, by administration of the antacid. Two other studies with aluminum hydroxide failed to find a significant effect on pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of atenolol and propranolol. Based on available data, the clinical significance of this potential interaction is difficult to determine. As a precaution, patients may want to consider separating the administration times of beta-blockers and antacids or other aluminum- or magnesium-containing products by at least 2 hours.

GENERALLY AVOID: Moderate-to-high dietary intake of potassium, especially salt substitutes, may increase the risk of hyperkalemia in some patients who are using angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). ARBs can promote hyperkalemia through inhibition of angiotensin II-induced aldosterone secretion. Patients with diabetes, heart failure, dehydration, or renal insufficiency have a greater risk of developing hyperkalemia.

MANAGEMENT: Patients should receive dietary counseling and be advised to not use potassium-containing salt substitutes or over-the-counter potassium supplements without consulting their physician. If salt substitutes are used concurrently, regular monitoring of serum potassium levels is recommended. Patients should also be advised to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of hyperkalemia such as weakness, irregular heartbeat, confusion, tingling of the extremities, or feelings of heaviness in the legs.