Introduction. The concept of interaction is to be understood as the interaction of two or more substances, resulting in the change of their individual characteristics or the cumulative effect. Aim of the study. 1 Assessment of knowledge of selected group of patients about the interactions between drugs and food and alcohol. 2 Determination of differences in knowledge about drug interactions in women and men. 3 Rating adherence to proper intake of medications. Material and methods. The study included 100 patients (51 women and 49 men) aged 40-80 years, mean age 56 years ± 10. Results. 65 respondents confirmed the occurrence of diseases requiring constant taking medication. The most commonly reported were included hypertension and diabetes. 66 respondents did not know about products which should not be combined with current medications they are taking. 75 respondents had never asked their doctor or pharmacist for information about food and drugs interactions. Conclusions. 1 Knowledge of respondents about drug/food or drug/alcohol interactions is insufficient. 2 Women read leaflets more often than men, and took it with plenty of water. 3 In this sample, patients do not comply with the proper medication intake.

Key words: food, drugs, alcohol, interaction.