Drug Induced Nutritional Deficiencies

This article first appeared in the Nanaimo News Bulletin

            Without a doubt, pharmaceutical medications have saved countless lives and improved the quality of life of many people.  Their judicious use, when appropriate, will never be argue by any naturopathic physician.  However, individuals must be very careful when taking any drugs for prolonged periods of time. 

            Aside from possible side effects, which are very well listed, there is a condition that one should consider.  This condition is known as drug-induced nutrient depletion.

            Literally hundreds and hundreds of drugs can cause the depletion of important nutrients in the body.  In fact, the major categories of most frequently prescribed drugs (antidepressants, antibiotics, oral contraceptives, antacids, cardiovascular drugs) all cause nutrient depletion.

            Although peer-reviewed scientific journals have been documenting research pointing to nutrient depletion for decades, the public is not receiving this information.  It is vitally important for individuals on medications for long periods to get informed. 

            The following a few examples of drugs and the nutrients they deplete.  Tricyclic antidepressants deplete vitamin B2 and coenzyme Q10.  A deficiency of vitamin B2 can cause problems with the skin, eyes, mucous membranes, and nerves.  Coenzyme Q10 has a crucial role in energy production, immune support, heart health, and protection from free radical damage.

            Monoamine oxidase inhibitors deplete vitamin B6, which can cause depression and insomnia.  This class of drugs is suppose to treat depression.  B6 deficiency can also lead to elevated levels of homocysteine.  This is bad for the cardiovascular system. 

            Most antibiotics are prescribed for short term use, however, tetracycline may be given for acne and continued for years.  This can lead to depletion of calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc.  Calcium and magnesium are important for bone health.  They are also important for cardiovascular health and for proper muscle function.  Iron and zinc are both important for wound healing and the immune system. 

            Birth control pills can deplete folic acid, B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, selenium, and zinc. 

Acid blockers like Cimetidine, Ranitidine, Losec, and Nexium can deplete B12, vitamin D, calcium, iron, zinc, and folic acid.

            Among the cardiovascular drugs, diuretics have the greatest impact on nutrients.  They can deplete calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, zinc, vitamins B1, B6, and C.  Even the potassium-sparing diuretics deplete calcium, folic acid, and zinc.

            Other cardiovascular drugs like Digoxin deplete calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin B1.  ACE inhibitors deplete zinc.  Beta-blockers deplete coenzyme Q10, and melatonin.  Calcium channel blockers deplete potassium.

            The intention of this article is not to frighten people off their medications.  Its goal is to inform and to suggest that the fewer drugs one can be on for prolonged periods the better.  If it is necessary for you to stay on certain drugs, work with you physician, pharmacist, or naturopathic physician to avoid the effects of drug-induced nutrient depletion.

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