Harmful Food-Drug Interactions

Licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) are responsible for teaching patients about the proper use and side effects of the medications their prescribed. A good understanding of the medication allows patients to receive the desired effect of the drug. However, what some LVNs do not include in their teaching is how certain foods can interact with some medications and alter their effectiveness. These interactions may cause serious side effects or make drugs weaker or stronger. LVNs should advise patients to read the package insert which should contain information regarding interaction warnings. The following are a few foods and beverages that are commonly known to react with medications. rnLVNs should warn patients who are taking statins (Lipitor), calcium channel blockers (Procardia), and medications for depression (Zoloft) and seizures (Tegretol) to avoid drinking grapefruit juice because of its known reaction with several prescription drugs. Certain compounds in grapefruit juice inhibit the enzymes that break down the medications causing more of the drug to remain in your system until it reaches a potentially hazardous level. Try Online Nursing. rnFoods high in vitamin K, such as the leafy green vegetables spinach, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and kale, can decrease the effectiveness of drugs such as Warfarin (Coumadin) which reduces blood clot formation. The drug works by slowing the production of vitamin K, a nutrient needed for effective clot formation, but if a patient consumes too many leafy greens they will counteract the desired effect of the medication. rnAn unexpected culprit of food-drug interactions is chocolate which can interfere with MAO inhibitors for depression, some antibiotics, and narcotic painkillers. When combined with certain medications, the caffeine in chocolate can cause serious tremors and can irritate the stomach lining thereby increasing feelings of nausea caused by some drugs. rnA more obvious food to avoid is alcohol, which can have a wide range of harmful effects when mixed with both prescription and over-the-counter medications. These side effects vary in seriousness from nausea and vomiting to drowsiness, sudden blood pressure changes, changes in breathing, and internal bleeding. Always avoid alcohol and speak with your doctor to learn more about the food and drink which could create problems.