not known, but it is believed that components of grapefruits (naringin and others) interfere with the body’s ability to eliminate drugs. These effects can persist for up to three days after ingestion of grapefruit juice. A partial list of drugs affected include: cyclosporin, calcium channel blockers, beta blockers, buspirone, benzodiazepine, carbamazepine. statins, and others. It might be best to avoid grapefruit juice altogether, if you are taking any of these medications. Check with your Peoples Pharmacist for a complete list of medications that interact with grapefruit juice. The next question I am often asked is about eating the actual “fruit” of a grapefruit. Not much is known if the same interactions apply, but I always assume they do.
.....Just when you thought it couldn't get any worse, many prescription medications can interact with vitamins and minerals. This is a fascinating topic |
referred to as drug induced nutrient depletion. At least I think it is fascinating. Many prescription drugs, either by their actions, or as a side effect, can prevent vitamins from being absorbed or working properly. It is not possible to go through all the interactions; there is actually a 500 page book on my desk which deals exclusively with this topic. Most acid blocking medications can interfere with the absorption of minerals and vitamin B12, as minerals and B12 require some stomach acid for proper absorption. Oral birth control pills can reduce the amount of folic acid in the body. Some drugs for epilepsy can interfere with the actions of vitamin D, thus reducing absorption of calcium and magnesium.
.....Drug interactions can be a scary phrase if you do not know its context. By asking questions and knowing which medications, vitamins and supplements, you are taking you can help avoid these |
interactions. Have a talk with your Peoples Pharmacist for more information about drug and other interactions. Your Pharmacist is the best resource for information about medications, vitamins and other health supplements.
.....Perhaps the best advice to protect your health is to ask these questions whenever starting a new medication:
.....Can I take it with other drugs?
Should I avoid certain foods, beverages or other products?
.....What are the possible drug interaction signs I should know about?
.....How will the drug work in my body?
.....Is there more information available about the drug or my condition (on the Internet or in health and medical literature)? .
Written By Ian Lloyd, Pharmacist & Chartered Herbalist
Peoples Pharmacy, Victoria |
