Anything we consume in the form of food, food supplements, medicine for shorter or longer duration is metabolised and absorbed in our body through certain chemical reactions and these chemical reactions have their byproducts too. These chemical reactions of metabolism of food are sometimes affected by the drugs (e.g anti-diabetic drugs, anti-hypertensive drugs, antidepressants, any food supplements etc) when not taken properly. Likewise, the desired effects of medicines, supplements can be altered by the nutrients in the food. So, understanding the food and drug interaction is important.
In simple words, before taking any supplement or short course of medicines or long-term medicines, it is necessary to know its relationship with food and its effect on other nutrient absorption to help decide what to avoid and what to eat at what time.
Here are some of examples of effect of nutrients present or absent in foods on drugs :
The calcium present in milk and milk products like yoghurt, cheese decreases the absorption of certain antibiotics. Hence these foods should not be consumed at the same time when these drugs are taken.
caffeine in foods or drinks increases adverse effects of stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD, depression that leads to loss of sleep (insomnia), nervousness etc.
Vitamin K found in green leafy veggies, coffee, tomatoes, organ meat especially liver as well as some vitamin mineral products can decrease the effect of blood thinner drugs like warfarin.
vitamin B6 in peas, beans, sweet potatoes, bacon, pork, multivitamin supplements etc. can decrease the effect of dopamine and antiparkinson drugs.
Calcium, magnesium and aluminium found in food supplements; antacids decrease the absorption of certain antibiotics.
Malnutrition or inadequate protein in diet can affect the effectiveness of anticoagulant drugs and anti-epileptic drugs.
Alcohol has potential effect on anti-diabetic drugs and antidepressant drugs.
high sodium content in foods affect the action of mood stabiliser drugs as well as anti-hypertensive drugs.
natural licorice (Mulethi in Hindi or Jeshthmadh in Marathi) containing substances increases blood pressure when taken in large amount and long-term use interfere with action of Anti-hypertensive drugs.
Mono-amine oxidase inhibitor drugs used to treat depression and high blood pressure has strong interaction with Tyramine present in the foods like aged cheese, fava beans etc.
Tips to use drugs wisely
When your doctor prescribes a medicine, mention to them, other medicines you take, over the counter drugs like antacids, laxatives, aspirin etc. You should also mention consumption of alcohol, tobacco etc.
Get complete knowledge from them about how and when (like before meals, after meals, with meals) any medicine/food supplement should be taken.
Inform doctor about any ill effects of drug or any unusual symptoms occur after eating certain food.
Take medicine with full glass of water (room temperature) is generally the safest way in many cases. It may prevent gastric irritation.
Do not mix medicines with hot drinks like tea, coffee, green tea, hot water, hot milk etc. heat can decrease the effectiveness of medicine.
Do not take multivitamin mineral supplements with any other medicine.
Do not mix medicine with food or take capsule apart (unless directed by physician). This may change drug composition.
If you are taking any medicine for longer duration, consult your doctor regarding any vitamin or mineral deficiency related to it. (e.g. some anti-diabetic drugs cause vitamin B-12 and folic acid deficiency. Diuretics causes calcium, potassium and magnesium depletion)
Read directions, warning, interaction precaution and expiry date written on the label or package inserts, remember this while taking over the counter drugs too.
Use least number of drugs possible and take as directed to avoid drug-drug or drug -food interaction.
— Dr, Anisha Potdar B.H.M.S. M.Sc. (nutrition and dietetics),CDE, IEP
(Author is homoeopathic consultant and dietitian and can be reached at anisha.potdar@gmail.com for appointment and detailed consultation)
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