Taking Medicines

Frequently Asked Questions

12. Why do some medications need to be taken with meals?

Taking some medicines with food can help the drug be absorbed by the body, although certain foods actually slow down absorption. Foods can also sometimes prevent stomach upset, a common side effect that can occur when a drug irritates the stomach's lining. Taking medicine with a full glass of water can reduce the chance of getting an upset stomach because the water helps the medicine dissolve faster.