Drug and Food Not Each Other Interactions

Sometimes food and drugs consumed simultaneously can lead to considerable risk of interaction. Interaction between drug and food that occurs when food is consumed affects the ingredients in the drug, so it can not work the way it should.

Many people who often combine food, such as chocolate and peanut butter can be considered a delicious combination. But eating chocolate and drinking a particular drug may be able to take risks.

Eating chocolate and taking drugs known as monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, such as Nardil (phenelzine) or Parnate (tranylcypromine) may be harmful.

MAO inhibitors are drugs to treat depression. Someone who eat chocolate with excessive amounts after taking MAO inhibitors may experience a sharp increase in blood pressure.

Drugs and diet can have interactions with both prescription drugs and OTC medications, including antacids, vitamins and iron pills.

There are three main types of drug interactions, among others:

1. Drugs with food and drink
2. Drugs with dietary supplements
3. Drugs with other drugs

Consumers need to learn about the warnings listed on drug labels and consult with their doctor about ways to reduce the risk of drug interactions.

About how to avoid interactions between drugs and food?

American Academy of Family Physicians recommends ways to avoid interactions between drugs and food:

1. Always read the labels on medicines to be consumed, ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand the instructions on drug labels.

2. Follow all instructions and warnings on labels of prescription drugs and OTC drugs.

3. Drinking any medication with a glass of water, unless your doctor has suggested using a different way.

4. Do not mix drugs with food or open capsules unless your doctor has told to do so.

5. Do not take any medication at the same time, including taking vitamins.

6. Do not mix the medicine in hot drinks, and never take medicine with alcoholic drinks.