Health Tip: Limit Drug-Food Interactions

Foods can affect both prescription and OTC meds

(HealthDay News) -- Sometimes the foods you eat and the meds you take don't mix.

The American Academy of Family Physicians says foods can negatively affect the way prescription or over-the-counter drugs work. The academy offers this advice on avoiding these so-called drug-food interactions:

  • Always read the label on your medications; ask questions of the pharmacist if you don't understand something or aren't sure.
  • Follow all label instructions and warnings on both prescription and over-the-counter medications.
  • Take any medication with a full glass of water, unless your doctor has advised differently.
  • Don't stir a medication with food or break open a capsule, unless your doctor has told you to do so.
  • Don't take any medication at the same time as you take vitamins.
  • Don't mix a medication in a hot drink, and never take a medication with alcohol.
Diana Kohnle

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