Medicines and milk, the 7 mixtures to never make according to a pharmacist

Antibiotics, iron, lithium or even levothyroxine… several treatments see their action reduced because of the calcium in milk or dairy products.

Tetracyclines

Some antibiotics, such as tetracyclines, can complex with calcium. This means that the medication will be less absorbed and therefore less effective. “It is therefore recommended not to consume milk when taking“, indicates the pharmacist.

Fluoroquinolones

Here again, fluoroquinolones can form complexes with the calcium in milk, thereby reducing their effectiveness. “It is therefore better to wait 1 to 2 hours after taking the medication before consuming dairy products,” recommends the expert.

Bisphosphonates

Bisphosphonates, used to treat osteoporosis, have their absorption reduced by calcium. “Milk fixes the medicine, preventing the intestine from doing its job of absorption properly,” specifies the doctor of pharmacy.

Iron

Calcium can also reduce iron absorption. “Avoid consuming milk and iron supplements at the same time,” recommends the pharmacist.

Lithium

Lithium, a medication used to stabilize mood and treat bipolar disorder, is sensitive to dairy. “I therefore recommend not taking it with milk (or any other milk product) to avoid altering its effectiveness”, assures Dr Yves Dour.

Antivirals

Many antivirals see their action modified by milk. “These medications are generally taken daily, so it is important not to combine them with dairy products when taking them. indicates the pharmacy doctor.

Levothyroxines

Finally, levothyroxine, in medications used against hypothyroidism, can also be affected by yogurts, cheeses and milk. To guarantee its good absorption, “I advise once again to take the medicine away from any dairy product.”

Medications and calcium: what good practices to adopt?

To avoid any neutralization of medications by milk, “respect an interval of 2 to 3 hours between taking calcium and dairy products”, advises Dr. Yves Dour.

If in doubt or simply have a question, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.