Can I Take Berkey 100mg with Stomach Medication (MgO)?

Can Berkey 100mg be taken together with an antacid (MgO)?

Dear Dr.
Jiang,
I was hospitalized for a week due to a cerebral artery embolism, and after discharge, my doctor prescribed a long-term medication regimen that includes Berkey 100mg, a stomach medication (MgO, 250mg), and Lipitor (40mg).
I have two questions:
1.
A teacher from China Medical University mentioned that enteric-coated aspirin should not be taken with stomach medications, as the pH level could lead to adverse effects.
Is this true?
2.
I need to take 20mg (half a tablet) of Lipitor daily.
If I take half a tablet every other day, will that have any impact? My total cholesterol was generally around 210 mg/dL before starting the medication.
Thank you,
Huang Ruixian

Mr. Huang, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/04

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, according to your description, aspirin is an antipyretic analgesic that also has antiplatelet effects, making it widely used for the prevention of vascular occlusion and cardiovascular diseases.
The dosage for preventing cardiovascular diseases is relatively low (usually between 75 to 325 mg), and gastrointestinal side effects are directly related to the dosage.
Clinical studies have reported that a daily dose of 75 mg can cause gastrointestinal bleeding in a small number of individuals with specific sensitivities.
If a daily dose of 300 mg is used, the incidence of bleeding doubles, and at doses above 1800 mg, the incidence can increase fivefold.

Common antacids like magnesium-aluminum compounds have a short duration of action and are not very effective in neutralizing stomach acid, thus having limited efficacy in preventing gastrointestinal lesions.
If ulcers occur, H2 receptor antagonists or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may be required.
Regarding magnesium oxide (MgO), it is generally used as a laxative in larger doses, while small amounts serve as an antacid.
It can cause a decrease in stool consistency and increase the frequency of bowel movements.
Patients who have had a stroke may have reduced mobility and difficulty in fluid intake, so to prevent constipation and the resultant increase in intracranial pressure during bowel movements, laxatives or stool softeners may be prescribed.
I take 20 mg (half a tablet) of Lipitor daily.
If I take half a tablet every other day, will it have an impact? My total cholesterol before medication was generally around 210 mg/dL.
Regarding lipid control, the Stroke Association emphasizes the importance of non-pharmacological management: (1) Dietary management should increase the intake of vegetables, fruits, unsaturated fatty acids, and high-fiber foods, while limiting saturated fatty acids and cholesterol.
(2) Weight control and regular exercise are important, with a goal of reducing body weight by 10% within six months and maintaining that weight.
The focus should be on the quality of exercise rather than intensity, emphasizing moderate and consistent activity.
(3) Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption, are crucial.
Modifying a sedentary lifestyle by taking stairs instead of elevators or parking further away to encourage walking is recommended.
It is essential to completely stop smoking and to improve excessive drinking habits, especially regarding hard liquor.
The physician's control target is based on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels rather than total cholesterol.
Medication adjustments can be made through blood tests every three months, unless there are complications such as hepatitis or muscle damage, in which case self-adjustment of medication is not advised.
I recommend that you consult a neurologist for discussion and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Tao, Neurology, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/12/04

More Info

When considering the concurrent use of Berkey (which contains aspirin) and magnesium oxide (MgO), it's essential to understand the pharmacological interactions and the potential implications for your health, especially given your medical history of cerebral artery occlusion and current medications.

1. Aspirin and Stomach Medications: Aspirin is known for its antiplatelet effects, which are beneficial in preventing blood clots, particularly after a stroke. However, it can also cause gastrointestinal irritation and increase the risk of bleeding, especially when taken in higher doses or over extended periods. Magnesium oxide, on the other hand, is primarily used as an antacid and laxative. It can neutralize stomach acid, which may theoretically affect the absorption of certain medications. However, the concern about taking aspirin with MgO primarily revolves around the potential for increased gastrointestinal side effects rather than a direct interaction that would render either medication ineffective.

The advice you received regarding enteric-coated aspirin not being taken with antacids is based on the fact that antacids can alter the pH of the stomach, potentially affecting the dissolution and absorption of enteric-coated formulations. However, MgO is not a strong antacid and is less likely to cause significant issues in this regard. It is generally safe to take MgO with aspirin, but it is advisable to space them out if you experience any gastrointestinal discomfort.

2. Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Dosage: Regarding your Lipitor regimen, it is crucial to maintain a consistent dosing schedule to effectively manage your cholesterol levels. If you are prescribed 20 mg daily but occasionally take only half a dose (10 mg), this could lead to fluctuations in your cholesterol levels. Statins like Lipitor work best when taken consistently, as they help lower LDL cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular risk. If you miss a dose or take a lower dose, it may not provide the intended therapeutic effect, especially if your baseline cholesterol was 210 mg/dL before treatment.

It is important to communicate with your healthcare provider about any changes in your medication routine. They can provide guidance on how to manage missed doses and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Regular monitoring of your cholesterol levels through blood tests will help assess the effectiveness of your treatment and guide any adjustments.

In summary, while it is generally safe to take Berkey (aspirin) with MgO, you should be mindful of any gastrointestinal symptoms and consult your doctor if you experience discomfort. Additionally, maintaining a consistent dose of Lipitor is crucial for effective cholesterol management. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen, especially considering your medical history and current treatments.

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