Alkaline mineral and medicinal waters can weaken the enteric coating of medications within a few minutes [1].
This discovery is significant because the integrity of a pill's coating determines how and where a drug is absorbed in the body. If the coating fails prematurely, the medication may not reach its intended target or may be neutralized by stomach acid before it can work.
Researchers at Semmelweis University in Budapest, Hungary, conducted the study to determine how different liquids affect medication delivery [2]. The team found that the specific composition of certain mineral waters interacts with the chemical structure of enteric coatings. These coatings are designed to protect the medication from the acidic environment of the stomach, allowing the drug to dissolve later in the small intestine.
Dr. Marla Shapiro, a medical expert, said the findings in a report by CTV News [3]. The research indicates that the alkalinity of these waters can trigger the breakdown of the protective layer much faster than plain water would. This degradation can happen in a few minutes [1], potentially reducing the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
While many people use mineral water for health reasons, the study suggests that the chemical properties of these waters can interfere with pharmaceutical engineering. The researchers said that the liquid used to swallow a pill is not a neutral factor in the absorption process.
Medical professionals generally advise taking medications with plain water to avoid these interactions. Plain water does not possess the mineral concentrations or pH levels that threaten the stability of enteric coatings, ensuring the drug is delivered according to the manufacturer's specifications [2].
“Alkaline mineral and medicinal waters can weaken the enteric coating of medications within a few minutes.”
This research highlights a critical gap in patient education regarding drug administration. While pharmacists typically warn against using juice or milk, these findings suggest that even 'healthy' alternatives like alkaline mineral water can compromise time-release or stomach-protected medications, potentially leading to suboptimal therapeutic outcomes.
