ABOUT BOOK

This book is intended to pursue questions at the intersection nutritional sciences and pharmacology. A 2013 Mayo Clinic survey estimates that 7 out of 10 Americans are on at least one prescription drug, and more than half take two. Despite prominent use of prescription medications, issues related to nutrition because of prescription use – and vice versa – how nutrition can affect drug action – are not typically explored. Section I introduces readers to pharmacology terms and concepts related to drug and nutrient interactions. Mechanisms underlying drug and nutrient interactions with drug administration, absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion are also described. Section II describes the impact of drugs on nutrient status and conversely, the effect of nutrient status/nutrition on pharmacotherapy. Section III considers the role of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on foods versus drugs, and the regulatory framework underlying pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, foods and food products.