When and How to Take Your Medication
Some drugs can
interfere with the absorption of important nutrients. On the other hand, what
you eat can influence the effectiveness of certain drugs. The following is a
list of drugs that can potentially interact with nutrients in food that we eat:
· antacids
· laxatives
· antibiotics
· anticoagulants for thinning
blood
· anti-lipid drugs for
cholesterol lowering
· anti-inflammatory drugs
· drugs for heart problems
· drugs for high blood
pressure
· drugs for the treatment of
Parkinson's Disease
It is
important to talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or dietitian about possible
drug-nutrient interactions when taking medications. We should also learn about
how and when the medication should be taken.
What's the Best Time?
A
pharmacist is probably the best person to ask when to take your
medication. Pharmacies now provide
information sheets with a medication that describe its properties, side
effects, and potential food interactions.
Those who are required to take your medication on an empty stomach
should take it at least 1 hour before eating or 2 to 3 hours after a meal for
increased effectiveness.
Certain
drugs work better during digestion and must be taken with meals. Other pills, anti-inflammatory drugs for
example, should also be taken with food as this helps prevent stomach
irritation. If a meal is skipped and the medication must be taken with food, it
should be taken with a light snack.
How Should You Take Your
Medication?
Drinking water with medication is always recommended. Some fruit or vegetable juices are also acceptable; check with a pharmacist to prevent possible adverse reactions, particularly with grapefruit juice. In addition, avoid taking medications with tea, coffee, and other hot beverages since they can alter the effect of certain drugs.