Dietary concerns associated with the use of medications

Medications can affect, and be affected by, nutrition. The interactions between drugs and various components in the diet are in part responsible for the erratic drug responses observed in patients. Because of the diversity of food consumption patterns among individuals and the widespread use of drugs, an array of varied and complicated side effects can occur. When vitamins, minerals, or other food components alter drug utilization or when drugs induce nutritional deficiencies, the effect poses a risk to the patient. Drugs can also affect many nutrition-related factors, such as appetite, taste acuity, and gastrointestinal function. Dietary habits or metabolic changes should be examined carefully and evaluated in any patient who unexpectedly gains or loses weight while taking drugs. Medicated patients need to be aware of good nutrition practices and to understand the importance of dietary modifications associated with certain diseases. A nutritious diet not only makes an important contribution to the health of those individuals but also reduces the risk of nutrition disorders or altered drug efficacy. Nutrition counseling should be considered for medicated patients to help them make rational decisions about their food choices.