Which medications should not be taken with cod liver oil?
Generally, cod liver oil should not be taken with the following medications: isotretinoin soft capsules, carbamazepine tablets, phenobarbital tablets, dexamethasone acetate tablets, and cyclosporine soft capsules. Details are as follows:
1. Isotretinoin Soft Capsules: Cod liver oil is rich in vitamin A, and isotretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A. Taking them together may cause excessive accumulation of vitamin A in the body, leading to vitamin A toxicity, with symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and skin itching.
2. Carbamazepine Tablets: Carbamazepine is an antiepileptic drug that can induce hepatic enzyme activity and accelerate the metabolism of vitamin D. When taken with cod liver oil, it may speed up vitamin D metabolism, lower its blood concentration, and reduce the effectiveness of vitamin D in cod liver oil, thereby affecting functions such as calcium absorption in the body.
3. Phenobarbital Tablets: Phenobarbital, as a sedative-hypnotic drug, can similarly induce hepatic enzymes and accelerate vitamin D metabolism. When taken with cod liver oil, it may increase the metabolic rate of vitamin D in the body, reducing its effective concentration and impairing vitamin D's physiological functions such as promoting calcium absorption.
4. Dexamethasone Acetate Tablets: Dexamethasone acetate is a glucocorticoid that antagonizes vitamin D's effect on calcium absorption, inhibiting intestinal calcium uptake and promoting calcium excretion. When taken with cod liver oil, it may weaken the effect of vitamin D in promoting calcium absorption, and long-term coadministration may increase the risk of osteoporosis.
5. Cyclosporine Soft Capsules: Cyclosporine soft capsules are immunosuppressants. Taking them with vitamin D in cod liver oil may increase the nephrotoxicity of cyclosporine. This is because vitamin D enhances calcium absorption, increasing blood calcium levels, and hypercalcemia may exacerbate cyclosporine-induced kidney damage, affecting kidney function.
During the use of cod liver oil, if other medications are required, consult a physician first to ensure safe medication use.