Bioavailbility of cardio medications

I have been using lanoxin and procainamide (pronestyl) to combat my atrial fibrillation for the last few weeks. It seems to work most of the time but I get back into afib for about 24 hrs without any apparent reason. On the last two occasions I went into afib, I had sandwiches with Benecol about 12 hours before the afib set in.

Is it conceivable that Benecol blocks the absorbtion of the above medication and reduces their bioavailability below therapeutic levels?

Thanks.

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

Dear Josef.

Benecol will change the absorption of these medications and you should discuss this with your physician as far as other ways to address your cholesterol.  You may consider pravachol as there are significantly less drug drug interactions.

[ed]

I have read that hawthorn berry extract may produce benefits similar to those of Lanoxin (digoxin), with fewer concerns about drug interactions.  Has there been any experience with this alternative, natural medication at the Cleveland Clinic?

[shirley]

Just what drugs does Benecol interact with? Is the spread"Take Control" in the same class as Benecol? Would this prevent the absorbtion of the beta blocker "Nadolol?
I really appreciate this forum!

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

Dear Shirley.

All of these cholesterol lowering agents available over the counter cause malabsoprption and may effect levels of medication.

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

Dear ED,

Sorry, no experience with this natural preparation.