Do you usually take medication before or after meals?

When we start a new medical treatment,We must make sure we fully understand the guidelines given to us by health personnel.In this way, we will achieve correct organization of medication, always taking into account such important aspects as the dosage, or when to take medications on an empty stomach.

There are different health reasons why we should fast. An example of this is blood tests, which require 8, and even 12 hours of fasting before performing the extraction.

Medication, however, applies a totally different pattern. In this article we explain why we should take certain medications on an empty stomach, and how to do it safely.

Why should we take a medicine on an empty stomach?

In many treatments it is recommended to take the medication on an empty stomach, to facilitate the absorption of the drug correctly. This is becausefood tends to slow down digestion, and the medicine is partially assimilated, and much more slowly.

Taking medication on an empty stomach does not only refer to copious meals. It also involves restricting nutritious drinks, such as juices or dietary supplements.

If we do not follow the instructions of health personnel, we could be reducing the therapeutic adherence of our treatment. After all, our body would not be getting the prescribed medication correctly.

How to take a medicine on an empty stomach?

It is very common to believe that the only time of day when we can take medication on an empty stomach is in the morning, just before breakfast. Although this information is not entirely incorrect, it is possible to assimilate drugs in aids during the rest of the day, and even at night, without interrupting our eating routine.

To take a medication on an empty stomach, it will only be enough to do it one hour before eating, and2 or 3 hours after consuming any other food again.In this way, we will ensure that no food interferes with the absorption of the drug, and it can be assimilated by our body correctly.

Medication to take with food

Although some drugs must be taken on an empty stomach to facilitate their absorption, thus reducing the time they must spend in our stomach,we can find medications that need to be accompanied.

This is because, When taking certain medications on an empty stomach, the medications irritate our gastrointestinal tract,causing nausea or vomiting.

Some of the drugs you should take after a meal are those known as NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, which are not absorbed correctly if we are fasting.

Therefore, it is essential to read the leaflet and listen carefully to the advice of the pharmacy and the doctor.

Foods that we should not mix with certain drugs

Please note that Not all medication is compatible with some foodsand lifestyles. In our previous article “Foods that we should avoid if we are under treatment” We explain some of the most common adverse reactions, which we must try to avoid at all costs.

Some of the most conflictive products are:

    • Yogurt
    • Cured cheeses and sausages
    • Sal
    • Caffeine and theine
    • Alcohol

Pay attention to dietary changes, as they can easily transform our treatment, altering the effect of the drugs on our body. Therefore, Take care of your diet and monitor any unwanted effects during treatment.

What is the best time to take medication?

Generally, we must wait about 8 hours, and even 12 in some cases, between the first and second intake of the same medication. This is the time our body needs to absorb the medication. Otherwise, you could suffer a accidental overdose, given the case.

To ensure that it is not dangerous, we recommend that you always consult with your doctor, and make sure that the pills are not incompatible with each other, nor are you allergic to the medication, nor can you suffer an adverse reaction.

How do I know what time I should take my medication?

As you can see, organizing daily medication can be a complex task. To ensure that we take the doses on the indicated day and time, the ideal is that you have the experience and advice of a pharmacist.

IMA Health It helps you find pharmacies that organize medication in SPD format, and offers you the possibility of receiving it at home, at no added cost.

Disclaimer: At IMA we offer advice and information about our products. Consult with an expert before making any decision that may affect your health.