Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: Coadministration with corticosteroids may decrease the serum concentrations and therapeutic effects of salicylates. Likewise, serum salicylate levels may increase following withdrawal of corticosteroid therapy, potentially resulting in salicylate toxicity. This interaction has been reported in patients receiving intra-articular as well as oral corticosteroids. One or more mechanisms may be involved, including an increase in the renal clearance and/or an induction of hepatic metabolism of salicylates caused by corticosteroids. Pharmacologically, the potential for increased gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity, including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration and perforation, should be considered due to additive ulcerogenic effects of these agents (especially aspirin) on the GI mucosa.

MANAGEMENT: Patients treated concomitantly with a corticosteroid may require higher dosages of salicylates or salicylate-like drugs. Pharmacologic response to these agents should be monitored more closely whenever a corticosteroid is added to or withdrawn from therapy in patients stabilized on their existing salicylate regimen, and the salicylate dosage adjusted as necessary. During concomitant therapy, patients should be advised to take the medications with food and to immediately report signs and symptoms of GI ulceration and bleeding such as severe abdominal pain, dizziness, lightheadedness, and the appearance of black, tarry stools. The selective use of prophylactic anti-ulcer therapy (e.g., antacids, H2-antagonists) may be appropriate, particularly in patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease or GI bleeding and in elderly and debilitated patients.