Dangerous combination: which drinks should not be consumed with medications

Dangerous combination: which drinks should not be consumed with medications

When taking medication, it is important not only to adhere to the dosage, but also to pay attention to what you drink with your pills. Some drinks can interact with the active ingredients of the medication, changing their effectiveness or even causing unwanted side effects. Here are some common drinks that should be avoided when taking pills.

Juices, especially grapefruit

Grapefruit juice is the leader among drinks that should not be combined with medications. This juice can affect the enzymes in the liver that are responsible for the breakdown of many medications. As a result, the level of the drug in the blood can increase significantly, which increases the risk of adverse reactions. According to studies, grapefruit juice affects more than 50 drugs, including blood pressure medications, statins, some antidepressants and antihistamines.

Tea is not such a safe alternative

Although tea seems harmless, it can also affect the effects of medications. Green tea, for example, contains substances that reduce the effectiveness of some medications, including anticoagulants such as warfarin. In addition, tea contains caffeine, which can interact with stimulants or cause side effects if you take heart or nervous system medications.

Sweet soda and caffeinated drinks

Carbonated drinks, such as colas or other sweetened caffeinated drinks, are not suitable for washing down with medications. First, because of their high sugar content, they can change the rate of absorption of some medications. Second, caffeine can enhance or, conversely, reduce the effect of certain medications, especially psychostimulants or anti-anxiety medications.

Milk and dairy products

Milk is also not always a good idea. It can interfere with the absorption of some antibiotics, such as tetracycline or ciprofloxacin. Calcium in milk forms compounds with the active substance of the drug, reducing its effectiveness. Therefore, it is better to consume dairy products separately from medications.

Alcohol - strictly prohibited

Alcohol in combination with medications can have dangerous consequences. It not only increases the side effects of many drugs, but can also change their effect. For example, alcohol in combination with paracetamol significantly increases the risk of liver damage. In addition, alcohol can negatively affect drugs that affect the central nervous system, including antidepressants, sedatives and sleeping pills.

What to drink then?

The safest and most effective drink for washing down pills is ordinary drinking water at room temperature. It does not interact with medications, does not change their concentration in the blood and does not create an additional burden on the stomach or liver. If you have any doubts about combining medications with food or drinks, be sure to consult a doctor or pharmacist.