Drug Interaction Report

Using amiodarone together with quiNIDine may occasionally worsen your heart condition or cause serious heart rhythm disturbances. In addition, amiodarone can increase the blood levels and effects of quiNIDine. This can occur even after you have stopped taking amiodarone for a while because the drug stays in the body for a prolonged period. You may need a dose adjustment if you have been taking quiNIDine and are starting treatment with amiodarone. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Your doctor may already be aware of the risks, but has determined that this is the best course of treatment for you and has taken appropriate precautions and is monitoring you closely for any potential complications. You should seek immediate medical attention if you develop sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, ringing in the ear, hearing loss, vision abnormalities, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations during treatment with these medications. 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.

Using dextromethorphan together with quiNIDine may increase the effects of dextromethorphan. Contact your doctor if you experience difficulty breathing, dizziness, drowsiness, anxiety, restless feeling, nervousness, confusion, or diarrhea. If your doctor does prescribe these medications together, you may need a dose adjustment or special test to safely use both medications. 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.

Amiodarone may increase the blood levels and effects of dextromethorphan. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. Contact your doctor if your condition changes or you experience increased side effects such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, drowsiness, difficulty sleeping, or diarrhea. 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.

Amiodarone may be taken with or without food but should be taken at the same way each time. You should avoid consuming grapefruits and grapefruit juice while taking amiodarone. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor. Grapefruit can raise the levels of amiodarone in your body and lead to dangerous side effects. This can affect the rhythm of your heart. Call your doctor if you have symptoms of irregular heartbeat, chest tightness, blurred vision or nausea.

Do not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice during treatment with quiNIDine unless specifically directed otherwise by your doctor. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with quiNIDine and increase the levels of quiNIDine in your body. If you are already consuming grapefruit products, do not increase or decrease the amount of these products in your diet without first talking to your doctor.

Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of dextromethorphan such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Some people may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with dextromethorphan. Do not use more than the recommended dose of dextromethorphan, and avoid activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medication affects you. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.

The recommended maximum number of medicines in the 'antiarrhythmics' category to be taken concurrently is usually one. Your list includes two medicines belonging to the 'antiarrhythmics' category:

• amiodarone
• Nuedexta (dextromethorphan / quinidine)

Note: In certain circumstances, the benefits of taking this combination of drugs may outweigh any risks. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or dosage.