Learn about the risks of medications and nutritional status and how to prevent them...

1. DRUGS AS A CAUSE OF
MALNUTRITION
• Mario Wilmath

2. OBJECTIVES
• At risk populations
• Drugs Classes
• Treatment
• Prevention

3. Physical Interactions
• Ca, mg, fe, al, or Zn can lower oral abs of
levothyroxine and quinolones.
• Tube feedings decrease phyntoin and
levothyroxine

4. Appropriate Prescribing
• Established efficacy
• Compatible safety
• Low risk of drug interactions
• Low risk of nutrient interactions
• Known adjustments for disease states or organ
function
• Convenient
• Affordable

5. Decreased Drug Effect
• Warfarin and vitamin-K containing foods

6. Decreased Oral Intake or Appetite
• Meds that alter taste (dysgeusia)
– Captopril
– Clarithromycin
• Decrease saliva production (xerostomia)
• Antihistamines, antidepressants,
antipsychotics, clonidine, diuretics
• Make mastication and swallowing dificult

7. Nutrient-Drug Interactions
• Constipation
• Inadequate or excessive fluid intake
• Need for a tyramine-restriction.
• It is advisable to refrain from blaming the
medication for side effects while working to
minimize the consequences.

8. • Choosing a Nutrient-rich Diet
• Antioxidants
• B-Vitamins and Folate
• Calcium Vitamin D
• Fiber
• Iron Magnesium Potassium

9. SUMMARY

10. REFERENCES
• Reuben DB, Herr KA, Pacala JT, et al. Geriatrics at your fingertips: 2009, 11th Editiion. New York: The
American Geriatrics Society; 2009.