Latest news with #DipaKamdar
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Not a good mix
Tea Sudafed clozapine Dipa Kamdar Kingston University For many of us, the day doesn't start until we've had our first cup of coffee. It's comforting, energising, and one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world. But while your morning brew might feel harmless, it can interact with certain medicines in ways that reduce their effectiveness – or increase the risk of common cold tablets to antidepressants, caffeine's impact on the body goes far beyond a quick energy contains caffeine but not in the same concentrations as coffee, and doesn't seem to affect people in the same way. Here's what you should know about how coffee can interfere with your medications – and how to stay is a stimulant, which means it speeds up the central nervous system. Pseudoephedrine, a decongestant found in cold and flu remedies such as, is also a stimulant. When taken together, the effects can be amplified – potentially leading to jitters or restlessness, headaches, fast heart rate and cold medications already contain added caffeine, increasing these risks further. Some studies also suggest that combining caffeine with pseudoephedrine can raise blood sugar and body temperature – particularly important for people with effects are also a concern when combining caffeine with ADHD medications such as amphetamines, or with asthma drugs such as theophylline, which shares a similar chemical structure to caffeine. Using them together may increase the risk of side-effects such as a rapid heartbeat and sleep the standard treatment for an underactive thyroid, is highly sensitive to timing – and your morning coffee can get in the way. Studies show that drinking coffee too soon after taking levothyroxine can reduce its absorption by up to 50%.Caffeine speeds up gut motility (the movement of food and waste through the digestive tract), giving the drug less time to be absorbed – and may also bind to it in the stomach, making it harder for the body to take in. These effects reduce the drug's bioavailability, meaning less of it reaches your bloodstream where it's needed. This interaction is more common with tablet forms of levothyroxine, and less likely with liquid absorption is impaired, symptoms of hypothyroidism – including fatigue, weight gain and constipation – can return, even if you're taking your medicine same timing rule applies to a class of osteoporosis medications called bisphosphonates, including alendronate and risedronate, which also require an empty stomach and around 30-60 minutes before food or drink is interaction between caffeine and mental health medications can be more serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as sertraline and citalopram, are a type of antidepressant medication widely used to treat depression, anxiety and other psychiatric conditions. Lab studies suggest caffeine can bind to these drugs in the stomach, reducing absorption and potentially making them less antidepressants (TCAs), such as amitriptyline and imipramine, are a class of older antidepressants that work by affecting the levels of neurotransmitters in the were among the first antidepressants developed and are less commonly used today, compared with newer antidepressants such as SSRIs, due to their potential for more side-effects and higher risk of are broken down by the liver enzyme CYP1A2, which also metabolises caffeine. The competition between the two can slow drug breakdown, increasing side-effects, or delay caffeine clearance, making you feel jittery or wired longer than an antipsychotic, is also processed by CYP1A2. One study showed that drinking two-to-three cups of coffee could increase blood levels ofby up to 97%, potentially increasing risks such as drowsiness, confusion, or more serious over-the-counter painkillers, such as those containing aspirin or paracetamol, include added caffeine. Coffee can speed up how quickly these drugs are absorbed by accelerating how fast the stomach empties and making the stomach more acidic, which improves absorption for some medications such as this may help painkillers work faster, it could also raise the risk of side-effects like stomach irritation or bleeding, especially when combined with other sources of caffeine. Though no serious cases have been reported, caution is still can temporarily raise blood pressure and heart rate, typically lasting three-to-four hours after consumption. For people taking blood pressure medication or drugs that control irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), this may counteract the intended effects of the doesn't mean people with heart conditions must avoid coffee altogether – but they should monitor how it affects their symptoms, and consider limiting intake or switching to decaf if may be part of your daily routine, but it's also a potent chemical compound that can influence how your body processes medicine. Here's how to make sure it doesn't levothyroxine or bisphosphonates on an empty stomach with water, and wait 30-60 minutes before drinking coffee or eating cautious with cold and flu remedies, asthma treatments and ADHD medications, as caffeine can amplify you're on antidepressants, antipsychotics, or blood pressure drugs, discuss your caffeine habits with your reducing intake or choosing a decaffeinated option if you experience side-effects like restlessness, insomnia or heart metabolises caffeine differently – some people feel fine after three cups, while others get side-effects after just one. Pay attention to how your body responds and talk to your pharmacist or GP if anything feels you're ever unsure whether your medicine and your coffee are a good match, ask your pharmacist or doctor. A short conversation might save you weeks of side-effects or reduced treatment effectiveness – and help you enjoy your brew with peace of mind.
Daily Mail
15-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Expert issues warning over deadly risk of three popular spices - millions could be at risk
Three popular household spices used in everything from cakes to curries may make life-saving drugs useless, a medicines expert has warned. Cinnamon, turmeric and ginger—said to naturally reduce inflammation and boost the immune system—can affect how the body metabolises a range of drugs, including those used to treat high blood pressure, diabetes, and common infections. A recent study found that the main compound in cinnamon, cinnamaldehyde, which gives the spice its unique smell and taste, also activates receptors that trigger the body to process drugs much more rapidly, reducing their effectiveness. While people who sprinkle cinnamon on their porridge should be safe, people who take cinnamon supplements could be at risk. 'Overconsumption could lead to a rapid clearance of the prescription medicine from the body, and that could result in making the medicine less effective', scientist Shabana Khan explained. Studies have shown that for some medications, such as blood thinners, therapid metabolism spurred by cinnamon can exacebate the drug's effect. In the case of aspirin and warfarin, this means a risk of potentially deadly bleeding, according to Professor Dipa Kamdar, a pharmacist from Kingston University. Experts now say the type of cinnamon matters too. 'True' cinnamon, a more expensive version of the spice originating from Sri Lanka, has been linked to a range of health benefits: it's rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, helps regulate blood sugar levels and has even been found to lower the risk of heart disease, according to Dr Kamdar. Cinnamon bark, however, which is usually found in supermarkets, contains high levels of coumarin, which can cause liver damage in high doses. Research also suggests that cinnamon could interact with other medications, like statins and antidepressants, making them more potent or less effective. Another household staple with adverse side effects is turmeric, which has previously been linked with liver failure. Turmeric has long been lauded for its anti-inflammatory properties, found in everything from immune boosting shots to curries. 'There's evidence that curcumin [the active incredient in turmeric] can affect how some drugs are metabolised by interfering with liver enzymes [that process drugs],' Prof Kamdar explained. Curcumin is a compound that naturally occurs in turmeric, giving it its bright yellow colour. Experts warn that taking multiple supplements at one time carries potential dangers due to unknown interactions that can make prescription drugs more potent or less effective Prof Kamdar continued: 'This means it could potentially interact with antidepressants, blood pressure medications, chemotherapy drugs and certain antibiotics.' In extreme cases, high doses of curcumin taken with black pepper—which helps the body absorb the spice—have been linked to severe liver damage. Prof Kamdar also speculated that, because turmeric has been found to lower blood sugar levels in animals, it could have the same effect in humans. 'This means it could increase the effects of anti-diabetic drugs or insulin. 'Additionally, turmeric has been shown to reduce blood pressure, which when combined with blood pressure medications could cause an excessive drop', the pharmacist explained. However, she stressed: 'As with cinnamon, these effects are most often linked to high dose supplements, not the small amounts used in food.' Ginger is another common spice lauded for its anti-nausea and anti-inflammatory effects. But, Prof Kamdar warns, its active compounds could interfere with the body's ability to process medication. Some studies suggest high doses of ginger may lower blood sugar, potentially increasing the impact of diabetes medication, risking deadly hypoglycemia. Ginger can also act as a mild blood thinner, Dr Kamdar added. She said: 'If you're taking medications, especially blood thinners, diabetes medicines, or chemotherapy drugs, it's worth having a quick chat with your doctors or pharmacist before starting any new herbal supplements.' 'But for most people, using spices in typical culinary amounts is safe. So go ahead: sprinkle, pinch, or dash—just be mindful of what's in your medicine cabinet—and be wary of taking any herbal supplement in high doses.'
The Sun
14-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Warning as 3 common spices could STOP your life-saving medication working – are you at risk?
A DASH of spice can do wonders to a meal - whether it's sprinkled over your morning porridge or heaped into a hearty curry. But three common spices could interfere with lifesaving medication and stop it from working, experts have warned. A recent study by the University of Mississippi flagged that cinnamon - a favourite for flavouring puddings and cakes - could make certain drugs less effective. People with chronic health conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes were urged to "be cautious" when using the popular kitchen ingredient. It's not the only spice that could pose a risk to patients. A bright yellow spice that gives curries and soups a vivid colour and a peppery background note can affect how drugs like antidepressants and antibiotics are metabolised. Another baking staple - particularly known for adding a zing to biscuits - could be a risky combination with blood thinning medication. Here are three common spices that could interfere with your prescription meds. 1. Cinnamon Cinnamon has been linked to a range of potential health benefits, according to Dipa Kamdar, a senior lecturer in pharmacy practice at Kingston University. Writing in the The Conversation, she the warming spice contains compounds like cinnamaldehyde, eugenol and coumarin. Lab tests carried out by scientists at the University of Mississippi found that the cinnamaldehyde activated receptors that speed up how drugs are cleared from the body – potentially making them less effective. "While this research is still in the early stages and hasn't yet been tested in humans, it raises important questions about how cinnamon interacts with modern medicines," Dipa said. Drugs you must never mix with caffeine The type of cinnamon can make a difference too. The study found cinnamon oil poses almost no risk of drug interactions. But cinnamon bark, particularly Cassia cinnamon that's found in supermarkets as ground cinnamon, contains high levels of coumarin - a blood thinner. "In contrast, true cinnamon from Sri Lanka carries a lower risk due to its reduced coumarin content," study author Amar Chittiboyina noted. "Coumarin's anticoagulant properties can be hazardous for individuals on blood thinners." Dipa said there have been a few case reports indicating that cinnamon supplements may increase the risk of bleeding if they're taken along with blood thinning medication - "probably due to coumarin affecting liver enzymes responsible for breaking down drugs like warfarin". 3 Other research suggests cinnamon could interact with other medications, including painkillers, antidepressants, anti-cancer drugs and diabetes medications, the pharmacist added. "But before you throw out your spice rack, it's important to remember: the risks come from high doses, particularly in supplement form," she stressed. "A light sprinkle of cinnamon on your porridge is unlikely to cause problems." Shabana Khan, a principal scientist involved in the above study, said: "People who suffer from chronic diseases - like hypertension, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, asthma, obesity, HIV, AIDS or depression – should be cautious when using cinnamon or any other supplements. "Our best advice is to talk to a health care provider before using any supplements along with the prescription medicine." 2. Turmeric Known for its vivid yellow colour, turmeric may also potentially interact with prescription drugs. Dipa noted that information on turmeric's interactions with medications is still limited. "Most of what we know comes from lab and animal studies, which don't always translate directly to humans. "Still, there's evidence that curcumin can affect how some drugs are metabolised, particularly by interfering with liver enzymes. "This means it could potentially interact with antidepressants, blood pressure medications, chemotherapy drugs and certain antibiotics. Certain foods can interact with medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or causing side effects. Common examples include grapefruit, leafy green vegetables, and certain dairy products. It's important to be aware of potential interactions and consult with a doctor or pharmacist for guidance. Here are some key food interactions: Grapefruit Grapefruit and its juice can interfere with the absorption and metabolism of many medications, including statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs) and some blood pressure medications. Leafy green vegetables Leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich in vitamin K, which can affect the effectiveness of blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin). Dairy products Dairy products, especially those high in calcium, can interfere with the absorption of certain antibiotics (tetracycline, ciprofloxacin) and some iron supplements. Alcohol Alcohol can interact with many medications, potentially enhancing their effects (like drowsiness) or reducing them. Turmeric also has natural blood thinning properties, which could amplify the effects of medications like warfarin or aspirin. "Animal studies suggest turmeric may also lower blood sugar, meaning it could increase the effects of anti-diabetic drugs or insulin. "Additionally, turmeric has been shown to reduce blood pressure, which, when combined with blood pressure medications, could cause an excessive drop. But Dipa stressed: "As with cinnamon, these effects are most often linked to high dose supplements, not the small amounts used in food." 3. Ginger Ginger could also potentially affect how medications work due to its active compounds, including gingerol, Dipa added. "Ginger can act as a mild blood thinner, which means combining it with anticoagulants could raise the risk of bleeding," the pharmacists said. "The evidence is mixed when it comes to ginger and diabetes: while some studies suggest it may lower blood sugar, more research is needed to fully understand the effect it may have when taken alongside anti-diabetic medications." The pharmacist once against stressed that while these spices may affect how the body processes certain medications, according to lab studies, most of these adverse effects have come about from high doses of the spices from supplements She urged people taking blood thinners, diabetes medicines, or chemotherapy drugs to speak to their doctor or pharmacist before starting any new herbal supplements.
