People taking prescription drugs may be more likely to have reduced levels of certain nutrients. Drug-induced nutrient depletion occurs when the medications you take for your chronic health condition block the absorption, storage, metabolism, or synthesis of essential nutrients in the body. When nutrients are blocked or depleted over time, health problems can develop. Here are some examples of common drug-induced nutrient depletions.
Diabetes Medication | Nutrients Depleted | Short-Term Effects | Long-Term Effects |
Sulfonylureas & 2nd Generation: Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Others: Metformin, Acarbose, Combos: Glucovance, Janumet Insulins | B2, B6, B12, CoQ10, Folic Acid, Magnesium, Chromium, C, Zinc | Chronic Diarrhea, Fatigue/ Decreased Energy, Brain Fog, Muscle Aches, Frequent Infections, Nausea, Decreased Immune Response | Decreased Libido, Memory Loss, Depression, Increased Risk of Heart Disease, Neuropathy, Vision Problems |
High Blood Pressure Medication | Nutrients Depleted | Short-Term Effects | Long-Term Effects |
Betablockers: Atenolol, Bisoprolol, Carvedilol, Labetalol, Metoprolol, Propranolol, Sotalol, Ace-Inhibitors & ARBS: Benazepril, Enalapril, Lisinopril, Ramipril, Diuretics: Furosemide, HCTZ, Triamterene, Cardiac Glycosides: Lanoxin | CoQ10, Zinc, B1, B5, B6, B12, Magnesium, Folic Acid, D, Potassium | Decreased Energy/Fatigue, Drowsiness, Brain Fog, Leg Cramps, Easy Bruising, Decreased Immune Response | Memory Loss, Liver Damage, Slow Wound Healing, Decreased Sex Drive |
Cholesterol Medication | Nutrients Depleted | Short-Term Effects | Long-Term Effects |
Statins: Atorvastatin, Simvastatin, Lovastatin, Pravastatin, Rosuvastatin Others: Gemfibrozil, Ezetimibe (Zeta), Fenofibrate (Tricor), Cholestipol (Colestid), Cholestyramine (Questran) | CoQ10, Magnesium, E, B6, B12 | Muscle Aches, Decreased Energy/ Fatigue, Brain Fog, Nausea, Anemia, Dry Skin/Hair, Easy Bruising | Vision Problems, Cardiovascular Disease, Congestive Heart Failure, Memory Loss, Liver Damage |
Birth Control or Hormone Medication | Nutrients Depleted | Short-Term Effects | Long-Term Effects |
All Oral Contraception/Birth Control Pills, Premarin, PremPro, Estratab, Estrace, Estradiol, and other Estrogen Derivatives and selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators | Magnesium, Zinc, Folic Acid, C, B6, B2, B12 | Decreased Energy/Fatigue, Depression, Appetite Loss, Anemia, Nausea, Anxiety | Decreased Libido, Cardiovascular Disease, Decreased Sleep |
Proton Pump Inhibitor Medication | Nutrients Depleted | Short-Term Effects | Long-Term Effects |
Omeprazole (Prilosec), Esomeprazole (Nexium), Lansoprazole (Prevacid), Rabeprazole (AcipHex), Pantoprazole (Protonix) | B12, D, Magnesium | Decreased Energy, Hair Loss, Brittle Nails | Decreased Immune System |
If you take any of these medications, our pharmacists recommend SolutionsRx Prescription Support. Prescription Support is a multivitamin and enzyme
combination specifically formulated to help maintain overall health and eliminate side effects as a result of drug-induced nutrient depletion. Recommended dosing is two capsules daily ($1/day).
If you are struggling to take your medication as directed due to side effects or other issues, please don’t hesitate to give us a call or stop by. We are here to support you on your journey to optimal health. Our experts have the knowledge and tools to help with all your medication questions and concerns.
*These statements are culmination of the knowledge and experience of the team at Norland Pharmacy. The information provided here is for informational purposes only. Please consult your healthcare provider with questions concerning any medical condition or treatment. Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and this product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.