Are you a coffee lover who has been prescribed antibiotics, and you are wondering whether they’re safe to use with them or not? Are you also worried about the potential interactions between Coffee and antibiotics? 

Coffee is generally considered safe to take with Antibiotics, but there are some specific Antibiotics that can cause interactions and make it unsafe. These are usually known as Quinolone antibiotics. We will also inform you about the potential side effects of using these two together and what to do in this case.  

This brief guide will enable you to safely use Antibiotics while drinking Coffee. We will educate you by explaining all the possible interactions between Coffee and Antibiotics. Stay with us as we uncover its details.   

Coffee And Antibiotics Interactions

You must be well informed about all the potential interactions if you are a coffee guy taking antibiotics. Moderate caffeine intake is generally considered safe, but it may affect some antibiotics present in your system.

Quinolone Antibiotics

Quinolone antibiotics are antibiotics that interact with caffeine or Coffee. These are usually prescribed to treat bacterial infections. These inhibit the enzymes that bacteria need to replicate and survive. 

Research proved compounds like polyphenols interact with the absorption of quinolone antibiotics in the digestive system. It reduces the amount of the antibiotic that reaches the bloodstream and reduces the impact of Antibiotics. It can also cause side effects like headaches, increased heart rate, trouble sleeping, and jitteriness.

Here are some of the renowned quinolone Antibiotics. Avoid them or consult with your doctor about using them with Coffee.

• Enoxacin
• Grepafloxacin
• Norfloxacin
• Levofloxacin
• Trovafloxacin
• Ciprofloxacin

Take quinolone antibiotics with water and avoid caffeinated beverages for at least two hours before or after taking it. It will keep you safe from all kinds of problems. 

Side Effects Of Taking Antibiotics And Coffee Together

Taking antibiotics and Coffee together may have some interactions. These interactions will develop some side effects. These can be both mild and serious. Here are some of the both mild and serious side effects.                                                                                                                

Mild Side Effects:

Here are some of the mild side effects you may face due to these interactions.

• Decreased Absorption: Some antibiotics, like fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines, can bind with minerals in Coffee. These minerals can reduce its absorption. It can affect the overall effectiveness of the antibiotic.
• Gastrointestinal Distress: The second common potential concern of using Coffee and antibiotics are gastrointestinal infections. These usually include diseases like diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and stomach problems. 
• Increased Heart Rate: Coffee is a stimulant which increases your heart rate and antibiotics can increase this effect. It may also cause palpitations or make you feel restless.

Severe Side Effects:

These are the severe side effects which may be caused by it. Get medical help as soon as you notice any such symptoms.  

• Caffeine Metabolism: Antibiotics like fluoroquinolones and macrolides involve the use of liver enzymes for metabolizing caffeine. It may lead to increased caffeine levels in the bloodstream.
• Seizures: Some antibiotics like penicillin and cephalosporins are capable of lowering the seizure threshold. Using them alongside Coffee (caffeine) could increase the risk of seizures.
• Antibiotic Effectiveness: Coffee contains compounds that could attach to antibiotics and reduce their effectiveness. This is common with antibiotics like quinolones and tetracyclines.

What To Do In Case You Took Them Together? 

Here are a few options in case you develop any side effects from the use of Coffee and antibiotics. 

• Contact Healthcare Provider: The first thing you need to do is contact your doctor in case of any effects caused by it. He will guide you according to the symptoms you have developed due to it. 
• Seek Medical Attention: In case of severe symptoms like breathing problems or increased heart rate, seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services.
• Medication Adjustment: Another solution to treat the side effects of caffeine and antibiotics is adjusting the dosage or taking a different medicine. Pay a visit to your doctor for the best guidance.  

Tips To Safely Use Antibiotics 

Follow these tips to safely use Antibiotics and get the best results from these medicines.

• The first and essential tip is to use it as prescribed. 
• Avoid using leftover medications and check the expiry dates before usage. 
• These are sensitive medicines, so you should avoid self-diagnosis.
• Inform your doctor about your Coffee, caffeine habits, allergies, and other medical conditions before using it.
• Store antibiotics appropriately. Keep it at a moderate temperature and away from direct sunlight and moisturize.
• Don’t double up If you miss a dose.
• Contact your doctor in case of any unexpected side effects.
• Avoid using recreational drugs alongside it.
• Keep your coffee or caffeine use in control while taking antibiotics.
• Eat healthy, sleep well, and exercise. These positive lifestyle changes will help you recover more quickly. 

Final Words 

Yes, you can drink Coffee with antibiotics. Normal amounts of Coffee, like 3 to 4 cups a day, are safe to use. But there is a type of antibiotic known as Quinolone that is considered sensitive for caffeinated items like Coffee. It decreases its effect and may cause certain side effects. 

The best way is to inform your doctor about all your medicines, nicotine, or caffeine usage before using Antibiotics. In case of side effects due to the interaction, seek medical help as soon as possible for your safety.