Most medicines should be taken with plain water, because water does not interfere with absorption.

Examples of medicine types that must be taken with water:

• Antibiotics like azithromycin, amoxicillin (milk can reduce absorption for some)
• Painkillers like ibuprofen, diclofenac
• Paracetamol
• Thyroid medicines (e.g., levothyroxine)
• Iron supplements (milk blocks absorption)
• Antacids (some react with calcium)
• Blood pressure medicines
• Diabetes tablets

 Rule: If unsure, always take with water because it is safest and non-reactive.

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Medicines Usually Taken WITH MILK

These are medicines that can irritate the stomach and become gentler if taken with milk.

Common categories:

• NSAIDs like Ibuprofen (if doctor says it’s okay) — milk helps reduce stomach irritation
• Some antibiotics like doxycycline — milk reduces stomach upset but may reduce absorption slightly (doctor specific)
• Steroids (e.g., prednisolone) — often recommended with milk/food to protect stomach
• Vitamins that need fat, such as Vitamin D, A, E, K — milk improves absorption
• Calcium tablets — ok with milk since both contain calcium

➡️ Rule: Milk is mainly used to protect the stomach or improve absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

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Medicine type	Take with	Why
Painkillers	Milk or food	Protect stomach
Antibiotics	Water	Calcium interferes
Vitamins (D, A, E, K)	Milk	Better absorption
Iron	Water	Milk blocks iron absorption
Thyroid meds	Empty stomach + water	Works best
Steroids	Milk or food	Prevent acidity

 Medicines You Should NEVER Take With Milk

Because calcium reduces absorption, avoid taking these with milk:

• Iron supplements
• Thyroid medication
• Some antibiotics like tetracycline/ciprofloxacin
• Ayurvedic churnas with mineral content (calcium interference)