Naturopathic Doctors are experts in holistic wellness, including diet, exercise, stress reduction, and also prescription medications!

Why is it important to see a Naturopathic Doctor when you’re taking a prescription medication?

prescription-medications-deplete-nutrientsMany medications are life saving and necessary, but they can also strip the body of vital nutrients required for long-term wellness. A Naturopathic Doctor has extensive medical knowledge and database access to determine which nutrients and hormones are being impacted by a drug.

Examples of nutrient-robbing medications:
Drug Category Nutrients Depleted
ACE Inhibitors (for cardiovascular disease): Lotensin, Vasotec Zinc, sodium
Antibiotics: Penicillin, sulfonamide, erythromycin Calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin K, disruption of beneficial intestinal bacteria
Benzodiazepines (for anxiety and sleep): Valium, Xanax Melatonin
Beta Blockers (for cardiovascular disease): Inderal, Lopressor Coenzyme Q10, melatonin
Birth Control Pills: Ovral, Demulen Folic acid, vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, C, zinc, selenium, trace minerals
Bronchodilators (for asthma and respiratory problems): Albuterol, Serevent Potassium
Calcium Channel Blockers (for cardiovascular disease): Cardizem, Norvasc Potassium
Diabetes Drugs: Glucophage, Avandia Vitamins B12 and B6, folic acid, coenzyme Q10, sodium, zinc, magnesium, potassium
Estrogen: Premarin, Prempro Vitamin B6
NSAIDs: Ibuprofen, naproxen Folic acid, iron, vitamin C
Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Aldactone, Dytac Folic acid, iron, vitamin C, zinc
SSRI Antidepressants: Prozac, Paxil Sodium, folic acid, melatonin
Statins (for lowering cholesterol): Mevacor, Zocor Coenzyme Q10
Thiazide Diuretics: Diuril, hydrochlorothiazide Magnesium, coenzyme Q10, potassium, sodium, zinc, thiamine, vitamins B6 and C
Thyroid Replacement: Synthroid Calcium
Ulcer Drugs: Zantac, Pepcid Vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, iron, zinc, folic acid, impaired protein digestion

Source: www.drwhitaker.com

It’s important to not see naturopathic medicine from an all-or-nothing perspective, but more so how it can support your current medical care and lifestyle. NDs are very happy to coordinate care with family physicians, specialists, dieticians, you name it. We are all members of your health team and speak the same medical language and have your wellbeing at heart.