Nutrition in the Age of Polypharmacy

Abstract

Key Points Drug-induced changes to nutritional status may be considered a subclass of adverse drug effects. Medication may alter food intake, as well as cause weight loss or weight gain. Medication may alter macronutrient digestion, absorption, metabolism, and excretion. Medication may alter vitamin absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Medication may alter mineral absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Significant drug-induced alterations in nutritional status can be prevented or managed by selecting a therapeutic alternative without the unwanted nutritional effect or by providing supplementation in the case of nutrient losses.