Some medicines need to be taken with or after food. Here are the 6 main reasons for this.
It's better to take some medicines that can cause nausea or vomiting after a meal to reduce these side effects. Examples include allopurinol and bromocriptine.
Some medicines can irritate the stomach, and taking them with food will reduce this effect. Things such as biscuits or a sandwich, or a glass of milk, are usually enough. Examples include:
- aspirin
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as diclofenac and ibuprofen
- steroids, such as prednisolone and dexamethasone
Medicines called antacids are taken to prevent heartburn and acid reflux and indigestion, which usually occur when acid is produced as food enters your stomach. Therefore, these medicines are most effective if taken immediately after, or during, a meal.
Preparations such as mouthwashes, liquid nystatin, and miconazole gel for oral thrush or mouth ulcers must be used after meals. This is because eating food washes the medicine away too quickly.
Some medicines require food in the stomach and gut for the body to absorb them properly, such as the HIV medicine ritonavir.
Medicines for diabetes that are taken by mouth should usually be taken around meal times. This is to reduce blood sugar levels after eating and to avoid a very low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia).
Enzyme supplements, which can be used to help people with chronic pancreatitis, should also be taken with food to help the body process the meal.
If you are unsure how or when to take your medicine, talk to your GP or pharmacist. You can also call NHS 111 for advice.