Medications
The other side of pharmaceuticals. Medications can be lifesaving, but they also deplete nutrients, disrupt the microbiome, and burden detox pathways. Understanding these effects helps mitigate side effects. Many people need nutrient support when on long-term medications. Always consult healthcare providers about interactions.
Common Drug-Nutrient Depletions
PPIs → B12, Magnesium
Acid blockers reduce nutrient absorption. Long-term use problematic.
Metformin → B12
Diabetes drug depletes B12. Supplementation recommended.
Statins → CoQ10
Same pathway makes both cholesterol and CoQ10. Muscle issues result.
Diuretics → Minerals
Potassium, magnesium, zinc lost. Blood pressure meds need support.
Birth Control → B Vitamins
Depletes B6, B12, folate, magnesium, zinc. Mood and energy effects.
Antibiotics → Probiotics
Wipe out beneficial bacteria. Gut recovery needed after courses.
Microbiome Effects
Antibiotics
Kill beneficial bacteria. Can take months to recover diversity.
PPIs
Alter gut pH. SIBO risk increases. Bacterial overgrowth.
NSAIDs
Damage gut lining. Leaky gut. Microbiome disruption.
Metformin
Actually improves some gut bacteria. GI symptoms common initially.
Drug Metabolism
CYP450 System
Liver enzymes metabolize most drugs. Genetic variations affect speed.
Grapefruit Interaction
Inhibits CYP3A4. Many drugs affected. Levels can spike dangerously.
St. John's Wort
Induces CYP enzymes. Reduces drug levels. Many interactions.
Methylation Drugs
Some drugs use methylation for clearance. MTHFR affects processing.