Supplements and Medications You Shouldn’t Take Together

Supplementation has become a large part of our everyday journey to better health but it is still good to be cautious about mixing too much of a good thing. Certain supplements may have an adverse reaction to prescription medication or may not absorb as well when taken with other supplements. While it’s always important to talk to a doctor before starting any new supplement or medication, it’s good to know what kinds of common supplementations don’t work well together and what ones to avoid with certain prescription medications.

Calcium, Magnesium, and Iron with Thyroid Medication

Avoid taking magnesium, calcium, and iron at the same time as thyroid medication as the supplements can affect the strength of the thyroid medication. Be sure to leave a minimum of 4 hours in between taking these medications.

Iron and Tea

Iron is an essential mineral but when it’s taken in excessive amounts it’s extremely toxic and should be kept away from children. Further, if you need to take iron supplements for your health, avoid taking it with tea as it can reduce its absorption levels. Wait for 2 hours or more to drink tea after taking an iron supplement.

St. John’s Wort

St. John's wort is a supplement that can help relieve mood, anxiety, and menopausal symptoms, but it can cause serious side effects when taken with anti-mood problem medications. It may interfere with how well it works when taken with other prescription medicines such as combined oral contraceptives and warfarin. Also, if taken with melatonin, it can enhance the drug's effect and cause oversedation.

Vitamin K and Vitamin E with Blood-Thinners

Vitamin KAids in blood clotting and may counteract vitamin K if combined with high doses of vitamin E. Also, high doses of vitamin E can change your blood and make it thinner. This is especially important for patients who are already taking blood-thinning medications, as it increases the risk of bleeding.

Omega-3s and Blood Pressure Medications

Despite the heart and brain health benefits of omega 3s, omega 3 supplements in fish oil can interact with blood pressure medications and can enhance their effects, resulting in unstable blood pressure. Omega 3s may also have an effect on blood-thinning medications for the same reason.

Red Yeast Rice, Niacin, and Cholesterol

Red yeast rice and niacin are two related supplements that may help stabilize cholesterol. However, these two things don't work well together and can cause liver damage. Also, if you're already taking prescription drugs for cholesterol, taking one of these supplements could damage your liver.

Coenzyme Q10 and Blood Sugar Medications

Coenzyme Q10 is a supplement with several uses, one of which may improve your heart function. However, if you are taking related prescription drugs and put coenzyme Q10 in the medicine, it may affect the glycemic index. In addition, CoQ10 may also interact with blood pressure medications and affect blood pressure indices.

Author: Danielle Roberts

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