Many people take prescription medications without realizing that the side effects could include the depletion of essential vitamins and minerals. While medications help manage conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and acid reflux, some can interfere with nutrient absorption or increase the body's need for certain vitamins.

People who use these medications, particularly those with long-term prescriptions, may begin to experience side effects related to these deficiencies, including fatigue, muscle weakness or other health issues.

These deficiencies can typically be counteracted with thoughtful dietary changes and by following your doctor’s recommendations.

How Medications Can Affect Nutrient Levels

Certain medications interfere with nutrient absorption in the digestive system, while others increase how quickly the body uses or excretes vitamins and minerals. Some medications, such as those that reduce stomach acid, affect the body’s ability to break down and absorb nutrients from food. Others block enzymes or pathways responsible for converting vitamins into their active forms.

The nutritional impact of medications isn’t always immediate, but long-term use of certain medications can lead to noticeable symptoms if deficiencies develop.

Common Medications That Can Cause Nutrient Deficiencies

Acid Reflux and Heartburn Medications (PPIs and Antacids)

Medications like omeprazole (Prilosec), esomeprazole (Nexium), pantoprazole (Protonix), ranitidine (Zantac) and aluminum- or magnesium-based antacids are commonly used to treat acid reflux and heartburn.

Nutrients Affected: Vitamin B12, Magnesium, Calcium and Iron

These medications reduce stomach acid, which is necessary for absorbing B12, calcium and iron. Over time, this can contribute to anemia, bone loss or muscle cramps.

Diabetes Medications

Metformin (Glucophage) is widely prescribed for type 2 diabetes to help regulate blood sugar levels.

Nutrients Affected: Vitamin B12 and Folate

Metformin can interfere with B12 absorption, leading to nerve issues, fatigue and cognitive problems if left unaddressed.

Blood Pressure and Diuretic Medications

Common diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide (Lasix) and spironolactone are used to manage high blood pressure and fluid retention.

Nutrients Affected: Potassium, Magnesium, Zinc and B Vitamins

Diuretics increase urination, causing the body to lose electrolytes and water-soluble vitamins, which can lead to muscle cramps, weakness and fatigue.

Cholesterol-Lowering Statins

Medications like atorvastatin (Lipitor), simvastatin (Zocor) and rosuvastatin (Crestor) are prescribed to lower cholesterol.

Nutrients Affected: Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Statins block an enzyme that also helps produce CoQ10, which is essential for muscle function and energy production. A deficiency can cause muscle pain or weakness.

Hormonal Birth Control and Hormone Replacement Therapy

Combination birth control pills and estrogen therapy are commonly used for contraception and hormone replacement.

Nutrients Affected: B Vitamins (especially B6, B12 and Folate), Magnesium and Zinc

Estrogen-containing medications can interfere with B-vitamin metabolism, which may affect mood, energy levels and cardiovascular health.

Antibiotics

Certain antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin, tetracyclines and sulfa drugs, are used to treat bacterial infections.

Nutrients Affected: Vitamin K, B Vitamins and Gut Flora Balance

Prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics can kill beneficial gut bacteria that help synthesize certain vitamins, particularly B vitamins and vitamin K, which play a role in blood clotting and energy metabolism.

How to Prevent Medication-Related Nutrient Deficiencies

Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet

A well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can help counteract nutrient losses. Foods rich in B vitamins (leafy greens, eggs and whole grains), magnesium (nuts, seeds and legumes), and calcium (dairy and fortified foods) can help maintain healthy levels.

Talk to Your Pharmacist or Doctor

If you’re on long-term medication, ask about possible nutrient depletions. In some cases, a simple blood test can determine whether you're deficient in key vitamins or minerals.

Consider Supplementation

If dietary intake isn’t enough, supplements can help fill the gaps. Some medications come with specific recommendations, such as taking a B12 supplement with metformin or supplementing CoQ10 while on statins.

 

Always check with a healthcare provider before adding supplements to avoid potential interactions. Be cautious of supplement marketing or packaging that makes assertions or claims about health benefits. The FDA does not approve dietary supplements, so they should always be purchased and used with caution.

Monitor for Symptoms

Fatigue, muscle weakness, tingling in the hands and feet or frequent illness could be signs of a vitamin or mineral deficiency. Keeping track of changes in your energy levels, mood or overall health can allow you to catch deficiencies early and develop a measured approach to counteracting them.



Learn About the Potential Side Effects of Your Medications During a Consultation With One of Our Houston Pharmacists

Consulting a pharmacist you trust is one of the most dependable ways to get accurate information about your medications and potential side effects. Our pharmacists at St. Hope Pharmacy are always ready to assist. Visit one of our pharmacies in the Houston area today or transfer your prescription to the location nearest you.