One in six older adults are at risk of a major drug-drug interaction. That’s when one drug affects the way another one works. Potential adverse effects range from kidney failure to heartbeat irregularities. Here are some dangerous combinations to avoid:
• Amlodipine and simvastatin—risk of nerve damage, muscle injury, kidney failure
• Warfarin and simvastatin—risk of bleeding, muscle damage, kidney failure
• Aspirin and clopidogrel bisulfate—risk of bleeding
• Aspirin and naproxen—risk of bleeding, ulceration, perforation
• Clopidogrel bisulfate and omeprazole—risk of serious blood clots
• Niacin and some statins—risk of nerve damage, muscle injury, kidney failure
• Lisinopril and potassium—risk of hyperkalemia (a buildup of potassium that can cause heartbeat irregularities)