AVOIDING UNHEALTHY FOOD AND DRUG MIXING

Some foods and drugs can create an unhealthy mix. Since you're taking prescription medicines, there's a brochure available online that may help keep you out of harm's way.

Click on the National Consumers League web site to order a copy. The brochure includes several examples of foods that may cause adverse reactions when taken in combination with drugs; discusses why some medications may be safer than others when taken in combination; and contains information on new medications including allergy treatments, pain therapy and cholesterol lowering therapy.

The brochure also includes information on which antibiotics should be taken with food to avoid stomach upset and on foods, such as fruit juices and milk that may cause reactions with some medications.

The effects of drug interactions can range from mild to severe and may include weakness, fatigue, muscle aches and rash. In addition, the effects of food and drug interactions can often be confused with common medical problems such as arthritis pain or a cold or flu.