Atorvastatin (Lipitor)- this medication is used to treat high cholesterol. "Lipitor is the number one selling drug on the planet, but the risk posed by Lipitor and other statins is not as well known. Statins inhibit the enzyme HMG CoA reductase, and as a result, deplete a vital nutrient commonly found in fish oils. Statins have been shown to cause the depletion of Coenzyme Q10 in the body." Davis Island Pharmacy.
Lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) is an ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure and sometimes heart failure. This medication has been known to deplete Zinc in the body.
Albuterol is used to treat and prevent bronchospasm/asthmatic attacks. This prescription meditation has been known to deplete calcium , magnesium , phosphate, and potassium .
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Unithroid, Levoxyl, Levothroid) these aresynthetically prepared thyroid hormones that are prescribed to improve symptoms of thyroid deficiency. Iron deficiency is often seen in patients on this medication.
Amlodipine (Norvasc) is a calcium channel blocker (CCB) used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain (angina). This common heart medication could cause a deficiency in potassium, calcium, vitamin D and possibly Co-Enzyme Q10.
Gabapentin is used to treat seizures in adults with epilepsy and nerve pain. This medication can be mis-used and lead to death by overdose. Some of the minerals that are depleted with this pharmaceutical option are biotin, calcium, copper, zinc Vitamins A & B6.
Omeprazole (Prilosec) is a drug prescribed to treat certain conditions where there is too much acid in the stomach, like ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This medication contributes to low levels of calcium, Folic Acid, Vitamins C & B12.
Metformin (Glucophage) is used in combination with diet and exercise to help control blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes. Metformin depletes Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid.
Losartan (Cozaar) is an ARB used to treat high blood pressure, reduce the risk of stroke, and slow the progression of kidney disease in patients with diabetes. This medication depletes magnesium, potassium and zinc.
Hydrocodone and acetaminophen (Vicodin, Norco, Xodol, Lorcet, Lortab) is prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain, from a variety of causes. This medication is an opiate, known for causing death by overdose. The nutrients affected by this medication include Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Iron and Potassium.
Next time you're filling or refilling a prescription medication, ask your pharmacist what nutrients you should be supplementing with. Often, they're a great resource and can help guide you. Being healthy isn't an either/or situation. We can use the tools of modern medicine right alongside the tools nature has provided. Ensuring proper mineralization and nutrients in the body is an excellent way to promote lasting health. Aren't you worth it?
