Drug Interaction

My mother is taking Dilantin for postop care of an coumadin-induced bleed in her brain. She has also been placed on Amiodarone in place of taking Coumadin for her atrial fibrillation. She also has a pacemaker. Can the two drugs, Dilantin and Amiodarone interact to give her bouts of loose stools. I know it can increase the level of dilantin in her body, but she keeps having bouts at night that wake her up with loose stools. She takes Dilantin and Amiodarone both at night. Thank you. Ilsa

[CCF-M.D.-RCJ]

Ilsa,

Both amiodarone and dilantin commonly lead to nausea, vomiting, and constipation.  Diarrhea would be an unusual finding.  Hyperthyroidism can be caused by amiodarone, and this condition could lead to diarrhea.  Also, did she receive antibiotics during the operation? C Diff colitis is sometimes seen after taking antibiotics.

Hope that helps.