Food and medicine interaction
Milk, yogurt, cheese and calcium-fortified juice and tetracycline antibiotics and fluoroquinolones such as ciprofloxacin
EstablishedEvidence level: established. Shown in drug labeling or in controlled studies in people.
Last reviewed
What can happen
Calcium binds these antibiotics in the gut, so less of the drug is absorbed and the infection may be treated less well.
- Why it happens
- Calcium (and magnesium, iron and zinc) forms insoluble complexes with tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones.
- At ordinary food amounts
- Yes, ordinary servings matter. MedlinePlus says not to take tetracycline with dairy such as milk, yogurt, cheese and ice cream, and not to take ciprofloxacin with dairy products or calcium-fortified juices alone.
What to do
Follow the timing on your prescription label and ask your pharmacist how far apart to keep dairy and the antibiotic. Finish the course as prescribed.
Never stop or change a prescribed medicine without talking to the prescriber.
Common questions
Can I have milk, yogurt, cheese and calcium-fortified juice while taking antibiotics?
Follow the timing on your prescription label and ask your pharmacist how far apart to keep dairy and the antibiotic. Finish the course as prescribed. Yes, ordinary servings matter. MedlinePlus says not to take tetracycline with dairy such as milk, yogurt, cheese and ice cream, and not to take ciprofloxacin with dairy products or calcium-fortified juices alone.