In an article published in the Spanish Huffpost, the Docture in Pharmacy Jennifer Bourgeois alerts on a current but unknown practice. According to her, certain drugs see their absorption disturbed by caffeine, or their amplified effects.
What is it really? We asked Dr. Aurélien Tesson, a pharmacist.
Why coffee can disrupt the action of certain drugs
Caffeine acts on several function of our body. It notably modifies the acidity of the stomach, stimulates the central nervous system, and interacts with certain liver enzymes. These actions may have consequences on the absorption or elimination of certain molecules.
Dr. Tesson recalls that these interactions are known to health professionals and must be taken seriously.
“Coffee can reduce the absorption of certain drugs such as levothyroxine or bisphosphonates, by modifying gastric pH or via tannins that form insoluble complexes”.
He also insists on an often overlooked point: the temperature of the drink.
Taking a treatment with a hot drink can precipitate the release of the active ingredient in the stomach, instead of the intestine, for gastro-resistant forms.
“”A gastro -resistant aspirin tablet taken with coffee can irritate the gastric mucosa“He adds.
Risk drugs in the event of coffee consumption
Some drugs are particularly affected by these interactions. Here are those who require reinforced vigilance:
- Antidepressantstricyclics in particular, because caffeine interferes with their absorption via the tannins present in coffee;
- Levothyroxine For the treatment of hypothyroidism, sees its absorption reduced if coffee is consumed too early after taking the medication. It is recommended to wait 30 to 60 minutes;
- Osteoporosis drugs, called biphosphonates because caffeine decreases the absorption of calcium and compromises the effectiveness of treatment;
- Pseudoephedrine, A nasal decongestant, which is stimulating, like caffeine. Their association can cause nervousness, anxiety, palpitations;
- Theophylline, Against asthma, as coffee can increase its blood concentrations and cause tremors and tachycardia;
- Anticoagulantslike warfarin because coffee can interfere via an enzymatic competition (CYP1A2), increasing the risk of hemorrhagic.
“”As a pharmacist, I can confirm that these interactions are proven and deserve special attention “ underlines Dr. Tesson.
What are the right gestures to follow, to avoid any risk?
Faced with these risks, no need to give up the pleasure of coffee. The main thing is to respect a difference of 30 to 60 minutes between taking the medication and that of coffee. And above all, use water at room temperature to swallow your treatments.
“”Taking medication with a hot drink is a frequent error “ Recalls Aurélien Tesson again. Tempered water remains the best ally to guarantee optimal and safe absorption.
If in doubt, or if you follow several treatments, it is always recommended to consult your doctor or pharmacist. Each organism reacts differently, and some adjustments may be necessary.