The NPA has responded to findings of recent research that implies that consuming apple and orange juice with certain medicines can reduce their effectiveness.

Colette McCreedy, NPA Director of Pharmacy Practice and Chief Pharmacist said: “The effect on grapefruit juice on some medicines is well established and where this applies it is clearly detailed in Patient Information Leaflets. Pharmacists will usually draw this matter to patients’ attention when dispensing their medicines. This new research showing that apple and orange juice may enhance or reduce the effects of some medicines is interesting but it is only one study. Usually further research is needed to establish that these interactions are significant.”

Colette adds: “We would recommend that anybody who is having side effects or has concerns about their medicines asks their pharmacist for advice.”

ENDS