Drug-Drug Interaction (Hormones & Other Drugs)

by Bill Robertson

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Ithought I might do a series of articles about the above topic. I think that we need to be aware of some of the drug-drug interactions that takes place within the body when we take extraneous hormones and perhaps other drugs, such as alcohol, amphetamines, opiates and marijuana. Whether people choose to take drugs or not take them, is their decision. However, I think that we need to have information to allow us to make more informed choices.

Long term chronic marijuana use is purported to have adverse effects upon the immune system causing immunosuppression^{1 2}. It should be noted that other depressant drugs such as alcohol, barbiturates, benzodiazepines and other anti convulsants share these immunosuppressive actions. The clinical significance of this immunosuppression is not known.

Evidence has been collected regarding cannabis induced immunosuppressant of sexual function, including the reduction of testosterone production³ and/or testosterone receptor sites. It would seem to follow that if the loss of testosterone receptor sites occurs in the F.T.M. person then the hormonal effects would be diminished or become less effective for those persons taking testosterone. It is also known that alcohol reduces testosterone levels. Female hormones such as Follicle Stimulating Hormone (F.S.H.) and Luteinising Hormone (L.H.) are reduced by marijuana ingestion in a biological female. Jaffe also states that:

"Chronic marijuana users may exhibit apathy, dullness, impairment of judgment, concentration and memory, loss of interest in personal appearance and pursuit of conventional goals".

The effects of benzodiazepines⁴ (Valium, Rohypnol, Serapax, Normison, etc.) are increased when people take oestrogen hormones. All benzodiazepines have an addictive central nervous system effect when taken with other sedative drugs including phenytoin (Dilantin), an anti epileptic medication.

Food for thought eh? ... until the next exciting installment of drug-drug interaction ... goodbye for now.

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