A nurse is caring for a patient with acne who has been prescribed tetracycline. The patient states that they drink a glass of milk every morning with breakfast. What is the nurse's best response?
"Milk helps the medication absorb more quickly."
"You should avoid milk and dairy products when taking tetracycline, as they reduce its effectiveness."
"It is safe to take milk with tetracycline, as long as you increase your water intake."
"It is fine to drink milk if taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after."
The Correct Answer is B
A. Milk does not enhance the absorption of tetracycline; rather, it contains calcium, which can bind to the antibiotic and reduce its absorption.
B. Avoiding milk and dairy products while taking tetracycline is essential as they reduce the medication's effectiveness by forming insoluble complexes with the drug.
C. Taking milk with tetracycline is not safe due to the risk of decreased absorption; simply increasing water intake does not negate this interaction.
D. While spacing the intake of milk and tetracycline might seem beneficial, it is best to avoid dairy entirely during the treatment to ensure maximum efficacy of the medication.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Take the drug on an empty stomach is correct because tetracycline should be taken without food for optimal absorption, ideally 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
B. Take the drug along with a meal is incorrect as it can reduce the absorption of tetracycline.
C. Take the drug along with milk or fruit juice is incorrect because calcium and magnesium can bind to tetracycline, decreasing its effectiveness.
D. Take the drug immediately after meals is also incorrect as food can hinder absorption, making this timing ineffective for treatment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Increasing fluid intake may not alleviate the cramping and diarrhea, which are common side effects of magnesium citrate.
B. Abdominal cramping and diarrhea are expected side effects of magnesium citrate, and the patient can continue the medication unless symptoms become severe.
C. Discontinuing the medication should not be recommended unless the side effects are intolerable or the patient experiences severe reactions.
D. Switching to a different type of laxative is unnecessary unless the patient has contraindications to magnesium citrate or develops severe side effects.