Drug-Nutrient Depletions Quiz

Drug — Nutrient Depletions

• Oral contraceptives can deplete essential nutrients like folate, magnesium, vitamins B6, B2, B1, B12, C, and zinc.
• Mechanisms of depletion include reduced absorption, increased excretion, and interference with liver enzyme activity.

Alcohol and Drug Interactions

• Alcohol competes with drugs for metabolizing enzymes, inhibiting drug metabolism.
• Chronic alcohol use may activate enzymes that reduce drug availability and increase toxicity.
• Alcohol can enhance effects of sedatives/narcotics in the brain.
• Some drugs alter alcohol metabolism, potentially increasing intoxication (e.g., cimetidine).
• Alcohol can displace drugs from depot injections, resulting in overdose.

Nutritional Therapist Considerations

• Always check patients for the generic names of medications.
• Nutritional therapists should familiarize themselves with drug resources available in their country, often accessible online.

Drug Terminology

• Understand key terms:
  • Drug class: type of drug (e.g., antibiotic).
  • Indication: intended use (e.g., hypertension).
  • Contraindication: conditions where drug should not be used (e.g., pregnancy).
  • Side effects: common adverse effects (e.g., gastric ulcers).
  • Interactions: how drug activity may be affected by other substances.

Drug vs Nutrient

• Drugs suppress symptoms without addressing underlying causes; nutrients support homeostasis and healing.
• Example scenarios illustrate how drugs may not target root issues (e.g., using laxatives for constipation without addressing digestive problems).

Herbal Medicine and Pharmaceuticals

• Many drugs are derived from plants, yet processing can lead to significant side effects.
• Willow bark contains multiple constituents aiding healing without adverse effects, while aspirin can cause gastrointestinal issues.

Important Drug Concepts

• Key areas for nutritional therapists include:
  • Pharmacokinetics: study of drug movement through the body (absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination).
  • Pharmacodynamics: understanding drug interactions and side effects.
  • Common drug-induced nutrient depletions.

Pharmacokinetics Overview

• Involves absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of drugs (ADME):
  • Drugs must be absorbed into the bloodstream to exert effects.
  • Once in the bloodstream, drugs target specific receptors before returning to the liver for metabolism.

Antidepressants — SSRIs

• SSRIs are prescribed for depression, PTSD, OCD (e.g., sertraline, fluoxetine).
• They work by inhibiting serotonin re-uptake and can cause various side effects (e.g., gastrointestinal disturbance, sexual dysfunction).
• Discontinuation of SSRIs should be gradual to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Serotonin Syndrome

• A potentially fatal condition caused by excessive serotonin due to drugs or interactions.
• Symptoms include confusion, abnormal movements, and fluctuating blood pressure.
• Supplements like 5-HTP and St. John’s wort should not be combined with SSRIs due to increased serotonin syndrome risk.

NSAIDs

• Used for pain relief and inflammation (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen).
• They inhibit COX enzymes and can increase bleeding risk when combined with warfarin or certain nutrients.
• Contraindications include gastrointestinal bleeding and hypersensitivity to acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin).

Corticosteroids

• Key to avoid abrupt withdrawal after long-term use to prevent adrenal crises.
• Encourage dietary alternatives to manage inflammation (e.g., anti-inflammatory diets, specific nutrients).
• Liquorice can elevate cortisol levels and interact negatively with corticosteroids.

Nutritional Consultation

• Essential to inquire about all medications (OTC and prescribed) during patient intake.
• Special attention should be given to oral contraceptives, as clients may not recognize them as medications.
• Maintain thorough documentation to address potential supplement-drug interactions.

Test your knowledge on the interactions between drugs and nutrients, specifically focusing on oral contraceptives and their effects on folate, magnesium, vitamin B6, and vitamin B2. This quiz explores the mechanisms of absorption and excretion and how they can impact health. Dive deep into the world of nutrition and pharmacology!