Coffee and medication: The enjoyment can be that dangerous!

Coffee and medication: The enjoyment can be that dangerous!

coffee is a daily companion and is considered one of the most popular drinks worldwide. But this pleasure can recover health risks in combination with certain drugs. The interactions of caffeine are less known than the alcohol, but have medically relevant implications. The article from Vol.at indicates this problem.

The affected drugs include pain relievers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol, blood pressure and diabetes medication such as metformin and insulin, as well as antidepressants and various antibiotics. A particularly critical interaction occurs in diabetics, since caffeine in combination with insulin can increase the risk of hypoglycaemia. In addition, caffeine can affect the effect of antibiotics or increase their side effects.

influence on the drug effect

Another aspect that is emphasized by aponet.de is that caffeine can weaken the effect of certain medication. This includes, for example, sedative such as benzodiazepines and thyroid replacement hormones such as levothyroxine, the active ingredient absorption of which is also influenced by coffee. An intake distance of at least four hours of caffeine is recommended so as not to reduce the effects of these medication.

caffeine can also extend the effect of theophyllin, an important drug for respiratory diseases. The possible side effects of an increased theophylline concentration should not be underestimated: this includes nervousness, insomnia and cardiac arrhythmias. In order to avoid such undesirable effects, experts advise to ask for possible interactions when taking medication in the pharmacy.

special caution in certain drugs

patients who consume blood pressure lowering, diabetes medication or medication against Alzheimer's should be particularly careful. According to top-kaffee.de , caffeine can reduce insulin sensitivity and thus negatively influence the blood sugar level. The mood can also be influenced by caffeine when taking antidepressants. The symptoms of a problematic interaction include nausea, vomiting, heartbeat and even allergic reactions.

The general recommendations for patients are clear: coffee should not be consumed at the same time as taking medication. A consultation with a doctor or pharmacist and the notes in the package insert are also crucial. In Austria, the average coffee consumption is around three cups a day. But in view of the diverse interactions, it is advisable to consider alternative drinks such as water, herbal or fruit teas to minimize possible risks.