Two Questions

Hi Doctor -

I have been told that taking klonopin and zantac together is not good for the liver and adversely effects the plasma level of klonopin in my system. I take 150 zantac twice a day and .5 klonopin twice a day. The Zantac is what controls my acid reflux the best. I am curious about your thoughts on this. I haven't noticed anything major, other than I am a bit more fatigued since taking them both.

I also just had my gallbladder removed last Friday. I realize that it has not even been a week since the surgery, but I had terrible reflux for the last couple of days and nausea off and on. My doctor said something about bile reflux for a little while until my body adjusts, and then he said the nausea and bile reflux should go away. Does this make sense? Thank you for answering my two different, but somewhat related questions.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Those medications can lead to an increase in liver enzymes.  Also, pre-existing liver disease can cause the Klonopin to say in the bloodstream longer.  

I agree that the bile acid reflux and the nausea may be side effects of the surgery.  However, if they persist, further evaluation should be done (i.e. with an upper endoscopy).  

If there is concern about the liver, serial liver enzymes can be done to ensure they are not rising.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com