Answer:

Some medicines need to be taken with or after food. Here are the 6 main reasons for this.

To reduce side effects of nausea or vomiting

It's better to take some medicines that can cause nausea or vomiting after a meal to reduce these side effects. Examples include allopurinol, bromocriptine and madopar.

To reduce side effects of stomach irritation, including indigestion, stomach inflammation or ulcers

Some medicines can irritate the stomach, and taking them with food will reduce this effect. Things such as biscuits or a sandwich, or a GLASS of milk, are usually enough. Examples include:

aspirin

non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as diclofenac and ibuprofen

steroid medication (corticosteroids), such as prednisolone and dexamethasone

To treat problems such as heartburn, reflux or indigestion

Medicines called antacids are taken to prevent heartburn, reflux and indigestion, which usually occur when acid is produced as food enters your stomach. Therefore, these medicines are most effective if taken immediately after, or during, a meal.

To ensure the medicine is not washed away

Preparations such as mouthwashes, liquid nystatin, and miconazole gel for oral thrush or mouth ulcers must be used after MEALS. This is because eating food washes the medicine away too quickly.

To ensure the medicine is absorbed into the bloodstream properly

Some medications require food in the stomach and gut for the BODY to absorb them properly, such as the HIV medicines ritonavir, saquinavir and nelfinavir.

To help the body process the meal

Medicines for diabetes, if taken by mouth, should usually be taken around meal times to reduce blood SUGAR levels after eating and to avoid a very low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia).

Enzyme supplements, which can be used to help people with chronic pancreatitis, should also be taken with food to help the body process the meal.

Information about your medicine

If you are unsure how or when to take your medication, talk to your GP or pharmacist (CHEMIST). You can also call NHS 111 for advice.

Further information

Common health questions on medicines

Medicines information

eMC database of medicine patient information leaflets