Drug interaction with Prednisone? | Arthritis Information
I'm wondering if maybe I'm doing something wrong...
I take supplements (Vitamin D3, Calcium, Magnesium, CoQ10) along with my Prednisone. I read on another forum that we shouldn't take calcium along with Prednisone as it will (or may) interfere with the body's absorption of Prednisone. I did a google search for "interaction - calcium and prednisone" which yielded a few links - one of which is this one:
Prednisone - Calcium carbonate
http://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/calcium-600-d-with-prednisone-2917-13737-1936-0.html
Quote: Antacids and agents with acid-neutralizing effects may impair the
absorption of dexamethasone, prednisolone, prednisone, and other
corticosteroids, although data from published studies are somewhat
conflicting. The mechanism of interaction and clinical significance are
unknown. No particular intervention is necessary during concomitant
therapy with these agents, but clinicians should be aware of the
potential for interaction.
Does anyone know any more about this? I'm wondering if I should wait a few hours after taking Prednisone before taking my calcium.
Thanks.
That is very interesting, RickF.
If true, we pmr patients really are in a Catch22 position in taking prednisone and trying to maintain bone mass with calcium supplements. You may have the right idea -- take your calcium at a different time than the prednisone, maybe a few hours apart?
freesia2010-07-16 08:16:00Hi Freesia.
I was at the pharmacist today picking up some scripts and asked the pharmacist about this. He said that Calcium pretty much
does interfere with absorption level of
ANY drug we take -- not just Prednisone (or Prednisolone). He suggested waiting a couple of hours after taking my normal meds before taking Calcium. He also said there was no reason to wait on taking Vit. D3 as that shouldn't interfere.
RickF
EileenH discussed this in some length on another pats site. The best way to take them - is Pred for Breakfast and Calcium for lunch. EileenH is bound to be along soon and tell you more.
Hi RickF,
Thank you for finding out this important information--it could help a lot of people.
Mrs UK, I'm going to start taking Pred for breakfast and calcium for lunch. Thank you!
freesia
MrsUK has so much faith in us!
Recommendations for taking steroids and calcium supplements: steroids for breakfast, half your calcium and vit D for lunch and the other half before going to bed! Steroids need to be taken as early as possible in the day, preferably altogether so their effect has worn off by bedtime and to mimic the normal production. Some people do split the dose and it works better for them but it complicates taking other things. Calcium and vit D need a bit of fat for best absorption. Taking a dose before bedtime helps to reduce the loss of calcium from the bones which occurs during the night (yes - it's a very small amount but it does happen that quickly!). Your body can't absorb laarge amounts of calcium at one time so it is better taken in a couple of smaller doses. Magnesium is also helpful for bone strength.
Any other questions about - just ask!
MrsE
Thanks so much for the info! I was taking my calcium plus D right along with the prednisone and folic acid. Will seperate from now on.Thanks everyone, this is such important information. I have been doing the cal.+vit.D for lunch, and now may try splitting them into lunch and bedtime doses.
freesia
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