Which statement describes an important drug interaction example with NSAIDs?

Which statement describes an important drug interaction example with NSAIDs?

• A. NSAIDs with anticoagulants increasing bleeding risk
• B. Acetaminophen with NSAIDs
• C. NSAIDs with antacids
• D. Vitamin C with antibiotics

Answer: (A)

The important concept is that NSAIDs can significantly raise bleeding risk when used with anticoagulants. NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandin production, which helps protect the stomach lining, and they also affect platelet function. Anticoagulants already slow clotting, so adding an NSAID compounds the risk of serious bleeding, including GI bleeding. In practice, this combo warrants caution: monitor for signs of bleeding such as black or tarry stools, vomiting blood, or unusual bruising, and consider alternatives or protective strategies if both drugs are needed. Other pairings described are not the high‑risk interaction here. Acetaminophen with NSAIDs is generally tolerated for short-term use; NSAIDs with antacids may alter absorption somewhat but isn’t the classic dangerous interaction; Vitamin C with antibiotics doesn’t describe a meaningful, common interaction in this context.

The important concept is that NSAIDs can significantly raise bleeding risk when used with anticoagulants. NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandin production, which helps protect the stomach lining, and they also affect platelet function. Anticoagulants already slow clotting, so adding an NSAID compounds the risk of serious bleeding, including GI bleeding. In practice, this combo warrants caution: monitor for signs of bleeding such as black or tarry stools, vomiting blood, or unusual bruising, and consider alternatives or protective strategies if both drugs are needed.

Other pairings described are not the high‑risk interaction here. Acetaminophen with NSAIDs is generally tolerated for short-term use; NSAIDs with antacids may alter absorption somewhat but isn’t the classic dangerous interaction; Vitamin C with antibiotics doesn’t describe a meaningful, common interaction in this context.