Can I take Tums with antibiotics?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking whether it is safe to take Tums, an antacid, alongside antibiotics. This often involves understanding drug interactions and the timing of doses, as antacids can sometimes affect the absorption of antibiotics.
Answer
Separate Tums and antibiotics by a couple of hours.
It is generally advised to separate the dosing of Tums and certain antibiotics by at least a couple of hours to avoid interference with absorption.
Answer for screen readers
It is generally advised to separate the dosing of Tums and certain antibiotics by at least a couple of hours to avoid interference with absorption.
More Information
Tums contains calcium carbonate which can interfere with the absorption of tetracycline-type antibiotics. It's best to take Tums a couple of hours apart from your antibiotic.
Tips
A common mistake is taking Tums and antibiotics together, which can reduce the effectiveness of the antibiotic.
Sources
- The Peoples Pharmacy: Does taking an antacid affect the absorption of an antibiotic? - richmond.com
- Azithromycin FACT SHEET - healthunit.org
