Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of a major drug-drug interaction?

1. Warfarin-Aspirin

2. Hydrocodone-Codeine

3. Guaifenesin-Pseudoephedrine

4. Hydrochlorothiazide-Triamterene

The correct answer is: Warfarin-Aspirin

The interaction between Warfarin and Aspirin is considered a major drug-drug interaction due to the significant impact this combination can have on patient safety. Warfarin is an anticoagulant that thins the blood to prevent clots, whereas Aspirin also has antiplatelet properties and can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Warfarin. This combination can exacerbate bleeding risk, making it critical for healthcare providers to monitor patients closely, adjust dosages, or consider alternative therapies. In contrast, the combinations of Hydrocodone and Codeine, Guaifenesin and Pseudoephedrine, and Hydrochlorothiazide and Triamterene do not typically present the same level of acute risk. While there may be cautions and interactions to consider, they do not generally result in the same level of life-threatening concerns associated with bleeding that Warfarin and Aspirin do. Understanding these interactions is key for pharmacy technicians in order to advise on medication management and ensure patient safety.