Drug Interaction Report

GENERALLY AVOID: Moderate-to-high dietary intake of potassium can cause hyperkalemia in some patients who are using angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. In some cases, affected patients were using a potassium-rich salt substitute. ACE inhibitors can promote hyperkalemia through inhibition of the renin-aldosterone-angiotensin (RAA) system.

MANAGEMENT: It is recommended that patients who are taking ACE inhibitors be advised to avoid moderately high or high potassium dietary intake. Particular attention should be paid to the potassium content of salt substitutes.

GENERALLY AVOID: Ethanol can exacerbate the cutaneous flushing that is a common side effect of niacin. At least one case of delirium and lactic acidosis has been reported with coadministration of these drugs, although data are limited.

MANAGEMENT: Coadministration should probably be discouraged, particularly since chronic consumption of large amounts of alcohol is associated with hyperlipidemia.

MONITOR: Many psychotherapeutic and CNS-active agents (e.g., anxiolytics, sedatives, hypnotics, antidepressants, antipsychotics, opioids, alcohol, muscle relaxants) exhibit hypotensive effects, especially during initiation of therapy and dose escalation. Coadministration with antihypertensives and other hypotensive agents, in particular vasodilators and alpha-blockers, may result in additive effects on blood pressure and orthostasis.

MANAGEMENT: Caution and close monitoring for development of hypotension is advised during coadministration of these agents. Some authorities recommend avoiding alcohol in patients receiving vasodilating antihypertensive drugs. Patients should be advised to avoid rising abruptly from a sitting or recumbent position and to notify their physician if they experience dizziness, lightheadedness, syncope, orthostasis, or tachycardia. Patients should also avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery until they know how the medications affect them.

A single case has been reported in which cutaneous flushing and tremors were noted in a woman who was taking niacin while wearing a nicotine patch. The mechanism is suspected to be synergistic cutaneous vasodilatory effects. The clinical significance of this possible interaction is not known.