The influence of food on the absorption and metabolism of drugs.

Food-drug interactions can lead to a loss of therapeutic efficacy or toxic effects of drug therapy. Generally, the effect of food on drugs results from a reduction in the drug's bioavailability; however, an alteration in drug clearance can occur due to the effect of certain foods on drug metabolism. The proportion of adverse drug reactions due to food-drug interactions is not known and unfortunately only when a serious adverse drug reaction follows a food-drug interaction does the matter usually receive any significant attention. In order to improve therapeutic efficacy and to help prevent adverse drug reactions, it is necessary that clinicians be knowledgeable of the important food-drug incompatibilities and risk factors related to the increased likelihood of developing an adverse drug reaction due to food-drug interactions.