Introduction
Welcome to my blog, I’m a Pharmacist and Warn You Don’t Take This With Food — Eat This Not That. As a pharmacist, I’m here to help you make informed decisions about the food you eat and the medications you take. I’m here to provide you with the latest information on food and drug interactions, as well as tips on how to make healthier food choices. I’ll also be discussing the latest research on nutrition and health, so you can make the best decisions for your health. So, let’s get started!
I’m a Pharmacist and Warn You: Don’t Take This With Food – Eat This Not That
As a pharmacist, I’m here to warn you about the potential dangers of taking certain medications with food. While it may seem like a harmless thing to do, it can actually have serious consequences. Here’s what you need to know.
Why You Shouldn’t Take Medications With Food
When you take a medication with food, it can slow down the absorption of the drug into your bloodstream. This can mean that the drug won’t work as effectively as it should, or it could even cause side effects. In some cases, it can even be dangerous.
For example, some antibiotics can interact with certain foods, such as dairy products. This can reduce the effectiveness of the antibiotic, or even cause an allergic reaction. So it’s important to read the label carefully and follow the instructions.
What You Should Do Instead
If you’re taking a medication, it’s best to take it on an empty stomach. This will ensure that the drug is absorbed quickly and effectively into your bloodstream. If you need to take it with food, make sure to choose something that won’t interfere with the drug’s absorption.
It’s also important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any potential interactions between your medications and food. They can provide you with more information and advice on how to take your medications safely.
Conclusion
Taking medications with food can be dangerous and can reduce the effectiveness of the drug. It’s important to read the label carefully and follow the instructions, and to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any potential interactions between your medications and food. By doing this, you can ensure that you’re taking your medications safely and effectively.
Taking certain medications might mean you need to switch up your routine a bit, including the foods you eat. Some prescribed meds can interact with food or just not work effectively if taken with a snack or meal, so it’s always advisable to speak with your physician or pharmacist to learn more about the medication. Eat This, Not That! Health talked with Thomas So, PharmD, Senior Manager in the Consumer Drug Information Group at FDB who shares five medications not to take with food and why. As always, please consult with your doctor for medical advice. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
Dr. So tells us, “Levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach, because certain foods and dietary fiber can decrease the amount of drug that your body absorbs. Lessening the amount of this hormone can lead to symptoms such as dry skin, sensitivity to cold temperatures, weight gain, constipation and weakness.”
Dr. So explains, “Alendronate (Fosamax™) is a bisphosphonate used to slow bone loss, reducing the risk for broken bones. It is recommended that alendronate be taken on an empty stomach before the first food, beverage, or other medications of the day. Taking alendronate with food can decrease the amount that your body absorbs, thus decreasing the effects of alendronate on bone strength.”
“Zolpidem (Ambien™) is a sedative-hypnotic used to treat insomnia,” says Dr. So. “Zolpidem should be taken on an empty stomach. If taken with food or right after a meal, zolpidem will take longer to help you fall asleep.”
Dr. So explains, “Tacrolimus (Prograf™) is an immunosuppressant used to prevent organ transplant rejection. Tacrolimus is best taken on an empty stomach. Food can decrease the amount of tacrolimus that your body absorbs, making it less able to prevent organ transplant rejection.”
Dr. So states, “Frovatriptan (Frova™) is a triptan used to treat migraine headaches. Frovatriptan is best taken on an empty stomach. Though food does not affect the amount of frovatriptan your body absorbs, food can slow the time it takes to get migraine relief.”
Heather Newgen