Can Coffee Really Prevent Some Medications From Working?

Ran across this while I was taking a study break-- Can Coffee Really Prevent Some Medications From Working? It sparked my interest because this summer I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, and I began taking levothyroxine to regulate my levels. When beginning this, I had to be very careful with what vitamins I was supplementing with because I also learned that things such as Vitamin D can block the absorption of this drug... something that many women will add to their daily vitamin regiment. Being an avid coffee drinker (THANKS MOM),  I was very interested to read this article. Well, it knocked my medications right on the head. 


It's said that coffee and espresso can have effects on up to 15 different medications! Whether it be inhibiting or enhancing them-- make sure you are aware! Some of the drugs the article highlighted were: levothyroxine, which experienced up to a 55% reduction in absorption (GREAT!!...), alendronate, which is a drug used for osteoporosis, which experienced a drop in absorption, and finally it was found in women coffee drinkers to lower estrogen and other hormones. "A number of these drugs, including some antidepressants,antibiotics and birth control pills, block an enzyme known as CYP1A2, which helps metabolize caffeine."-- NY Times. One study showed that caffeine remained in the body much longer in women who took birth control then women who did not.


I am not knocking caffeine by any means-- I love my coffee in the morning! But, it is just good to be aware how things interact with your medications! Especially now that we are ingesting a lot with finals! Knowledge is power! This will make me think a little more of when I take in my daily cup of Starbucks :) Stay happy and healthy!

Happy Monday! Good Luck with F I N A L S!