Certain drugs can negatively impact nutrition by interfering with nutrient absorption or decreasing appetite. Drugs that interact with calcium, magnesium, iron, or zinc can lower absorption of other medications. Medications that alter taste or decrease saliva production can decrease oral intake and appetite. Choosing medications with established efficacy and safety, a low risk of drug interactions, and compatibility with disease states can help prevent malnutrition. Maintaining a nutrient-rich diet with antioxidants, B-vitamins, calcium, fiber, and minerals can also help offset potential nutrient-drug interactions.

1. DRUGS AS A CAUSE OF
MALNUTRITION
• Mario Wilmath

2. OBJECTIVES
• At risk populations
• Drugs Classes
• Treatment
• Prevention

3. Physical Interactions
• Ca, mg, fe, al, or Zn can lower oral abs of
levothyroxine and quinolones.
• Tube feedings decrease phyntoin and
levothyroxine

4. Appropriate Prescribing
• Established efficacy
• Compatible safety
• Low risk of drug interactions
• Low risk of nutrient interactions
• Known adjustments for disease states or organ
function
• Convenient
• Affordable

5. Decreased Drug Effect
• Warfarin and vitamin-K containing foods

6. Decreased Oral Intake or Appetite
• Meds that alter taste (dysgeusia)
– Captopril
– Clarithromycin
• Decrease saliva production (xerostomia)
• Antihistamines, antidepressants,
antipsychotics, clonidine, diuretics
• Make mastication and swallowing dificult

7. Nutrient-Drug Interactions
• Constipation
• Inadequate or excessive fluid intake
• Need for a tyramine-restriction.
• It is advisable to refrain from blaming the
medication for side effects while working to
minimize the consequences.

8. • Choosing a Nutrient-rich Diet
• Antioxidants
• B-Vitamins and Folate
• Calcium Vitamin D
• Fiber
• Iron Magnesium Potassium

9. SUMMARY

10. REFERENCES
• Reuben DB, Herr KA, Pacala JT, et al. Geriatrics at your fingertips: 2009, 11th Editiion. New York: The
American Geriatrics Society; 2009.