Drug interactions in dental practice: a summary of facts and controversies

The potential for drug interactions is a concern to all dentists. The issue is made even more imposing by the amount of scientific information published each month. It is not only important for dentists to be aware of interactions that have been established, but also those that are no longer tenable. Of particular concern are continued misconceptions about the antibiotic-oral contraceptive and the vasopressor-antidepressant interactions. This article will clarify these issues as well as highlight established interactions associated with those drug classes used most frequently in dental practices.