Drugs You Must Never Take Together

Most of the drugs we take usually have side effects. However, several drugs should never be taken together due to potentially dangerous interactions.

According to Healthline, here are a few examples of such drugs:

You should never take two different sedatives or sleeping pills.

Mixing one sedative or sleeping pill with another can increase the sedative effects of both substances, leading to excessive drowsiness, difficulty breathing, and even coma or death.

Antidepressants and painkillers: Some antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can interfere with the effectiveness of certain pain medications, such as opiates.

This can lead to increased pain and the need for higher doses of pain medication.

Antipsychotics and antihistamines: Combining antipsychotics with antihistamines can increase the risk of sedation and drowsiness, as well as impair cognitive function.

Blood thinners and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Taking blood thinners, such as warfarin, with NSAIDs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can increase the risk of bleeding.

Decongestants and stimulants: Mixing decongestants, which are used to treat nasal congestion, with stimulants, such as amphetamines, can increase the risk of heart palpitations and high blood pressure.

Diuretics and lithium: Taking diuretics, which are used to treat high blood pressure and edema, with lithium, a medication used to treat bipolar disorder, can increase the risk of lithium toxicity.

Opioids and benzodiazepines: Mixing opioids, such as morphine and oxycodone, with benzodiazepines, such as Valium and Xanax, can increase the risk of respiratory depression and potentially lead to overdose.

Statins and fibrates: Combining statins, which are used to lower cholesterol, with fibrates, which are used to treat high triglycerides, can increase the risk of muscle damage.

It is important to always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and to let them know about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking.

It is also essential to read the warning labels on medication bottles and ask your pharmacist about potential interactions with other drugs.