Are Your Medications Depleting Your Nutrients?

If you’re taking prescription medications on a regular basis, you’re not alone. Nearly half of U.S. adults take at least one prescription drug daily, and many rely on multiple medications to manage chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or mental health concerns. But what’s not often discussed is how some of these medications can interfere with your body’s ability to absorb or maintain essential nutrients.

These hidden nutrient losses can lead to fatigue, muscle weakness, bone loss, or mood changes symptoms that can easily be mistaken for other issues. Below, we break down the most common medications linked to nutrient depletion and what you can do to stay in balance.

1. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Used for: Acid reflux and GERD
Examples: Prilosec, Nexium, Protonix

PPIs reduce stomach acid, which can affect the absorption of key nutrients over time. Long-term use (especially over 12 months) may deplete:

• Vitamin B12 – deficiency may cause fatigue, memory problems, or nerve issues

• Vitamin C

• Iron

• Calcium

• Magnesium

• Zinc

If you’re taking a PPI regularly, talk to your provider about monitoring your nutrient levels or adding supportive supplements.

2. Metformin

Used for: Type 2 diabetes
Metformin is the go-to medication for managing blood sugar—but it’s also known to lower vitamin B12, particularly in people taking it long-term or alongside sulfonylureas (like glipizide or glyburide).

Low B12 levels can lead to fatigue, numbness, and even mood disturbances. Routine blood tests and a quality multivitamin can help prevent deficiencies.

3. Statins

Used for: High cholesterol
Examples: Lipitor, Crestor, Zocor, Livalo

Statins may lower Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a nutrient that helps with energy production in cells. Some people on statins experience muscle aches, and while the link to CoQ10 isn’t conclusive, low levels may play a role.

Before taking CoQ10 supplements, check with your healthcare provider especially if you’re on other heart medications.

4. Corticosteroids

Used for: Inflammation, autoimmune conditions, asthma
Examples: Prednisone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone

Long-term steroid use can lower your absorption of calcium and vitamin D, increasing the risk of:

• Bone loss

• Osteoporosis

• Fractures

Steroids may also deplete:

• Vitamin A

• Vitamin C

• Potassium

To support bone health, your doctor might recommend calcium and vitamin D supplements or bone-strengthening medications.

5. Aspirin

Used for: Pain relief, heart health

Regular aspirin use may reduce levels of vitamin C and iron, though the evidence is mixed. Vitamin C also helps protect the stomach lining so combining it with aspirin may reduce the risk of ulcers.

If you're taking aspirin daily, ask your provider whether you should monitor these nutrients.

6. Diuretics ("Water Pills")

Used for: High blood pressure, fluid retention
Types:

• Loop diuretics: Lasix, torsemide

• Thiazide diuretics: Hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone

These medications increase urination, which can flush out key nutrients:

• Loop diuretics: May deplete calcium, thiamin (vitamin B1), magnesium, and potassium

• Thiazides: Can lower zinc, magnesium, and potassium

Since low potassium and magnesium can lead to muscle cramps or irregular heartbeat, monitoring these levels is especially important.

7. ACE Inhibitors

Used for: High blood pressure, heart and kidney conditions
Examples: Lisinopril, enalapril, captopril

ACE inhibitors may increase the risk of zinc deficiency, especially with long-term or high-dose use. Zinc is important for immune function, wound healing, and hormone balance.

If you’re on an ACE inhibitor, ask your provider about testing or supplementing zinc if needed.

8. Actos (Pioglitazone)

Used for: Type 2 diabetes

Pioglitazone may reduce bone density and increase the risk of fractures—particularly in women and older adults. Your provider might recommend:

• Calcium supplements

• Vitamin D to help with calcium absorption

Bone scans may also be suggested if you’re taking pioglitazone long-term.

9. SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

Used for: Depression and anxiety
Examples: Zoloft, Prozac, Lexapro

SSRIs may reduce calcium and vitamin D levels over time, increasing the risk of weakened bones and osteoporosis—especially in older adults or with long-term use.

If you're on SSRIs, bone density checks and supplements might be recommended.

10. Birth Control Pills

Used for: Preventing pregnancy, hormonal regulation

Oral contraceptives may lower:

• Vitamin B6

• Vitamin B12

• Folate

• Magnesium

Although the research is still emerging, if you’ve been taking birth control pills for years, a multivitamin might be a smart addition especially if you're planning a pregnancy in the near future.

Smart Next Steps to Protect Your Nutrient Health

• Keep an updated list of all your medications and share it with your healthcare provider regularly.

• Ask about nutrient testing if you're taking long-term medications that impact absorption.

• Don’t self-supplement overloading on vitamins can also be harmful. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider first.

• Eat a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of leafy greens, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats to support overall health.

A 2023 CDC report found that up to 31% of U.S. adults had at least one vitamin or mineral deficiency. When combined with medication-related depletion, the risk of unnoticed imbalances goes up making awareness all the more important.

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