Pharmacists emphasize that while incorporating supplements into one’s routine can promote overall well-being, there is a potential for interactions with medications that might compromise their effectiveness and lead to unwanted reactions.

They cautioned against certain combinations, such as taking Vitamin D alongside thiazide diuretics used in treating hypertension, as it could diminish the drug’s efficacy, raising the risk of uncontrolled blood pressure and stroke.

Additionally, they advised against pairing antibiotics with “blood tonic” products or supplements containing iron due to potential interactions.

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is characterized by a persistent elevation in blood vessel pressure and is linked to various serious health conditions like heart, brain, and kidney diseases, as highlighted by the World Health Organization.

Statistics show a high prevalence of hypertension globally, with a significant impact on mortality in Nigeria where cardiovascular diseases account for 11% of all deaths.

Research highlights prevalent issues with self-medication and non-adherence to prescribed regimens in Nigeria, leading to reduced treatment effectiveness and adverse reactions.

Supplements, comprising vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts, are commonly consumed to enhance overall health or counteract stress or physical strain, according to Consultant Pharmacist Lolu Ojo, who clarifies that some disease states necessitate supplementation to address vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

However, Ojo underscores the importance of recognizing that not all supplements and medications are compatible, citing warnings from the American Food and Drug Administration on potential risks of combining certain dietary supplements with prescription drugs, such as HIV/AIDS medications, heart disease treatments, and contraceptives.

Notably, Professor Ismail Suleiman, an expert in Pharmacoeconomics and Social Pharmacy at Niger Delta University, cautions that some supplements may contain ingredients that counteract the effects of specific drugs, such as the potential interference of antioxidant-rich supplements with anti-malaria medications.

He stresses that individual responses may vary, and seeking guidance from healthcare providers on potential interactions between medications and supplements is crucial to mitigate risks.

“Everything has to be individualised depending on the drug or supplement in question.”

The don further stated, “For example, anything that contains ferrous, may form complex with certain drugs. We have ferrous and we have ferric. Ferric is a form of iron and that is one of the most important components of blood tonic.

“In Mist-Mag (an antacid), we have magnesium and when taken with tetracycline, it can cause what is called complex, which means that it would allow the antibiotics to be well absorbed.

“So, supplements that contain magnesium and metallic radicals are not to be taken with some antibiotics. For instance, ciprofloxacin should not be taken with supplements containing metallic radicals because it would be complex and this will make the drug not to be well absorbed and reach the minimum effective concentration.

“When one takes a drug, there is a minimum level that the drug must get to for it to elicit its required therapeutic activities. Of course, there is also the maximum therapeutic level which should not be exceeded to avoid it being toxic.

“So, if the minimum concentration of a drug is not reached, that is if the drug does not reach the required level of adequate therapeutic formation to be absorbed into the system, it will train the organism being treated to become resistant to the drug.”

To avoid potential interactions between supplements and medications, the pharmacist suggested allowing a two-hour gap between taking prescription medicine and supplements to minimize risks.

Additionally, certain antibiotics like Ampliclox and Amplicin should be taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption, as taking them after eating may reduce their effectiveness.

In contrast, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (pain relievers) should be taken with food to prevent stomach ulcers.

The pharmacist emphasized that combining supplements and medications requires a personalized approach, considering the specific drug, patient, and condition being treated, rather than following a standard formula.

He mentioned, “If a patient refuses to adhere to the drug usage, such that a drug that is supposed to be taken 12 hourly, is not followed, it will hinder the effectiveness of the drug.

“If the frequency of dosage and duration for a drug is not followed, there is a problem. The person will succeed in eradicating a fraction of the organisms and the remaining will bounce back and multiply. For example, a five-day drug taken for three days will clear 80 per cent of the bacteria and the remaining 20 per cent would multiply exponentially.”

Suleiman warned individuals taking hypertension medication not to stop their treatment without consulting their doctor first.

Meanwhile, Ojo emphasized that supplements can interact with prescription medications, and the effects of these interactions vary depending on the specific supplement and medication combination involved.

He stated, “Supplements can and do interact with medications. The extent and consequences of the interaction depend on the nature of the supplement and the medication involved.

“For instance, taking Vitamin D with thiazide diuretics may reduce their effectiveness and increase the risk of hypercalcemia.”

He also pointed out that combining supplements containing Vitamin D with antihypertensive medications can be hazardous, as it may lead to uncontrolled blood pressure, increasing the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular complications.

Reduced efficacy of antihypertensive drugs may lead to the BP being out of control with a risk of stroke and or other cardiovascular complications.

“On the other hand, if hypercalcemia sets in, this could lead to peptic ulcer, pancreatitis and bone complications.”

He advised, “Always consult your pharmacists before taking any medication. Drugs are not snacks and should be taken on prescription, and if over-the-counter, it should be based on the advice of a pharmacist.”