Common Medication-Nutrient (Food) Interactions

Interaction 2: Tetracycline and Dairy Products

Medication: Tetracycline is an antibiotic that is used to treat a variety of infections.

Nutrient: Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, contain calcium. Calcium can bind to tetracycline and make it less effective.

Foods to avoid: Dairy products, including milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream.

Key points for client education:

• Do not take tetracycline with dairy products.
• Wait at least two hours after taking tetracycline before consuming dairy products.
• If you need to take tetracycline with dairy products, take it with an acidic beverage, such as orange juice, to help dissolve the medication.

Interaction 3: Lithium and Salt

Medication: Lithium is a mood stabilizer that is used to treat bipolar disorder.

Nutrient: Salt is a common ingredient in many foods. Excessive salt intake can lead to an increase in lithium levels in the blood, which can increase the risk of side effects, such as tremors, nausea, and vomiting.

Foods to avoid: Processed foods, salty snacks, and restaurant meals.

Key points for client education:

• Limit your salt intake to no more than 2,300 milligrams per day.
• Read food labels carefully and choose foods that are low in sodium.
• Cook more meals at home and control the amount of salt you add.

It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of all possible interactions between medications and nutrients. Always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medication or making any changes to your diet.

Interaction 1: Warfarin and Grapefruit

Medication: Warfarin (Coumadin) is an anticoagulant medication that helps to prevent blood clots.

Nutrient: Grapefruit juice contains furanocoumarins, which can inhibit the metabolism of warfarin. This can lead to an increase in warfarin levels in the blood, which can increase the risk of bleeding.

Foods to avoid: Grapefruit juice, grapefruit segments, and grapefruit marmalade.

Key points for client education:

• Do not drink grapefruit juice while taking warfarin.
• Eat grapefruit segments and grapefruit marmalade in moderation.
• Be aware of the signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as easy bruising, nosebleeds, and bloody stools. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.