MEDICATIONS

 Avoiding food and drug interactions

When taking a prescription or nonprescription medication:

• Read the label and all printed information

Nonprescription products print information on the package. Prescription drugs generally come with information fact sheets and may have warning stickers on the container.

• Don’t mix medications into food unless advised

Acid or minerals in certain foods can alter some drug ingredients. Breaking apart pills can destroy special coatings that protect your stomach or the medication, or that create the time-release mechanism of some drugs (which allows slow, uniform absorption).

• Don’t mix medicine into hot beverages

Heat can destroy or alter drug ingredients.

• Don’t consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice with medications

A substance found in grapefruit and its juice can alter the effects of several drugs, sometimes causing a buildup of medication, which could become toxic. One example is atorvastatin (Lipitor), which is used for high cholesterol.

• Avoid alcohol 

Alcohol can increase or reduce a drug’s effects or increase side effects.

• Don’t take a vitamin and mineral supplement or antacids at the same time as your medication unless your doctor approves

Some nutrients can bind with drug ingredients, reducing their absorption and limiting their effectiveness.

• Tell your doctor if you’re taking herbal supplements 

Many herbal supplements have known interactions with medications, and others haven’t been thoroughly tested for interactions. While you’re on medications, check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding herbal supplements.

• Take medication as recommended

Some drugs are better absorbed with food to reduce the risk of stomach irritation or upset. Other drugs may be better absorbed when taken with a full glass of water an hour or two before meals. Follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s instructions. 

Asking the right questions about your medications

Whether you’re taking a prescription drug or one you buy over-the-counter, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist questions. Keep a list of the medications and doses readily available in your purse or wallet.

• What’s the name of the medication?

Learn both the generic and brand names. 

• Why are you taking it?

It’s critical that you understand the purpose of the medication. Knowing why your doctor has recommended a particular medication will increase the chances that you take the medication appropriately and receive the intended benefit.

• What effect can you expect? 

How will the drug make you feel? How soon can you expect results? Some drugs take days or weeks to have an effect.

• How much, when and how long should you take it? 

Make sure the directions make sense. “Four times daily” could mean with each meal and at bedtime or every six hours, including the middle of the night. 

• Are there restrictions?

Some foods can interfere with the effectiveness of a drug. Alcohol also can interfere and cause certain side effects. In addition, some drugs can make you sensitive to sunlight.  

• What are the side effects?

What are common side effects? Which side effects may go away with time? Which side effects should prompt you to contact your doctor?

• What do you do if you miss a dose?

Do you take it as soon as you remember or wait until the next dose is due?

• Are there alternatives?

Do other drugs or treatments cost less or have fewer side effects? Will a generic drug provide the same benefit?