Drug Interaction Report

Consumer information for this interaction is not currently available.

MONITOR: The concomitant use of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (ACHEIs) (e.g., donepezil, galantamine, benzgalantamine physostigmine, rivastigmine, tacrine) with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. ACHEIs can increase gastric acid secretion due to their cholinergic effects and NSAIDS may increase the risk of GI bleeding and ulceration. In a Swedish retrospective case study of 70,060 patients aged 65 years and older with new prescriptions for both ACHEIs and NSAIDs, 1500 persons were diagnosed with incident peptic ulcer. The results suggested that the risk of peptic ulcer was significantly increased for the combination of ACHEIs and NSAIDs compared to NSAIDs alone. No increased risks were found for the use of ACHEIs alone.


MANAGEMENT: Caution and clinical monitoring are recommended if concomitant use of ACHEIs and NSAIDs is required, especially in patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease, the elderly, or debilitated patients. Patients should be advised to seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms that could indicate the occurrence gastrointestinal bleeding such as black or tarry stools, bright red blood in vomit, coffee ground like vomit, abdominal pain or cramping, diarrhea, dizziness or lightheadedness, weakness or fatigue and pale skin.

Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of meprobamate 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 meprobamate. Do not use more than the recommended dose of meprobamate, 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.

Ask your doctor before using aspirin together with ethanol (alcohol). Do not drink alcohol while taking aspirin. Alcohol can increase your risk of stomach bleeding caused by aspirin. Call your doctor at once if you have symptoms of bleeding in your stomach or intestines. This includes black, bloody, or tarry stools, or coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds. 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.

Information for this minor interaction is available on the professional version.