Everyone knows that mixing different medications together can cause some medications not to work properly. But did you know that what you swallow your pill with can make a difference to?
Grapefruit Juice
It may inhibit enzymes that help metabolize certain pills, including some heart drugs, antidepressants, antifungals and thyroid medication. It may make them less effective and worsen side effects.
Caffeinated Drinks
Coffee, tea, cola, consuming caffeine regularly while using certain asthma drugs may increase side effects. Caffeine can irritate the stomach. So avoid the NSAIDs such as ibuprofen.
Milk
Milk is good for you, but calcium prevents absorption of some antibiotics.
Alcohol
You especially need to watch what you take with alcohol. You risk liver damage if you drink regularly and use acetaminophen. Alcohol can diminish the effects of antidepressants and worsen side effects of other drugs.
Cranberry Juice
It is good when you have a kidney infection, but if you drink it while taking warfarin, an anticoagulant, it may increase bleeding.
Fiber Drinks
Fiber can bind with many drugs, decreasing effectiveness.
Actually it is good to take more than just a swallow of water with pills. A nice 6-8 oz glass at least is good.
Thanks