Food and medicine interaction
Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules and antacids and acid reducers (H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors)
TheoreticalEvidence level: theoretical. Suggested by how the food and the drug work, or by lab data. Not shown in people.
Last reviewed
What can happen
Acid reducers may cause enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules to open in the stomach instead of the intestine, raising the chance of heartburn.
- Why it happens
- Enteric coatings are designed to resist stomach acid; NCCIH notes peppermint oil capsules are often enteric-coated to reduce heartburn, and a less acidic stomach can weaken that protection.
- At ordinary food amounts
- Peppermint tea and food amounts are not affected; this is about capsules.
What to do
If you take antacids or acid reducers, ask your pharmacist how to time peppermint oil capsules or whether to use them at all.
Never stop or change a prescribed medicine without talking to the prescriber.
Common questions
Can I have enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules while taking acid reducers?
If you take antacids or acid reducers, ask your pharmacist how to time peppermint oil capsules or whether to use them at all. Peppermint tea and food amounts are not affected; this is about capsules.