Drug Interaction Report

DexmedeTOMIDine can lower blood pressure and slow the heart rate, and combining it with perindopril may add to these effects. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor 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.

Consumer information for this interaction is not currently available.

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.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Administration with food decreased the biotransformation of perindopril to its active metabolite, perindoprilat, resulting in a decrease of perindoprilat bioavailability by 35% and a reduction in the plasma ACE inhibition curve of approximately 20%. When administered as part of a combination product with amlodipine and taken with food, perindopril and perindoprilat absorption rates have decreased by 18% and 14%, respectively, versus fasting. No effect of food on the extent of unmetabolized perindopril absorption has been observed.

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. Some authorities recommend administering perindopril before a meal, preferably in the morning. According to the prescribing information, the combination product containing perindopril and amlodipine may be taken with or without food.

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