Common Medicines May Reduce Cancer Drug Potency

Common heartburn medications may increase the toxic side effects and/or reduce the effectiveness of the popular cancer treatment Gleevec, according to new research by Medco Health Solutions Inc.

The research shows that 43 percent of patients taking the leukemia drug Gleevec were also using another drug that could decrease its efficacy. Another 68 percent of patients were taking a medication that could raise the toxicity level.

The drugs that were the most likely to alter the toxicity and effectiveness of Gleevec were PPI medications for acid reflux and heartburn, according to Reuters.

Researchers also found that while oncologists prescribed most of the patients’ cancer drugs, primary care physicians prescribed the other medications, highlighting the need for improving communication across all prescribing doctors.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by a dangerous drug, contact Sokolove Law for a free legal consultation and to find out if a dangerous drug lawyer may be able to help you.

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