Depletions

Magnesium

When you do not get enough magnesium, it also affects calcium and vitamin D levels in your body. It may be associated with muscle cramps, heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, and osteoporosis.

Potassium

Symptoms of potassium deficiency include loss of appetite, nausea, drowsiness, feelings of apprehension, fatigue, muscle pain, and weakness (usually of the legs). Severe cases may lead to irregular heartbeat.

Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)

Low levels of folic acid have been linked to anemia, heart disease, depression, and birth defects.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)

Noticeable symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency can take years to show up. Irritability, weakness, numbness, anemia, loss of appetite, headache, personality changes, and confusion are some symptoms associated with very low levels of vitamin B12. Low levels of this vitamin may also be associated with an increased risk of colon cancer, heart disease, brain problems, and birth defects.

Editorial Note

The information presented here covers some of the nutrients that may be depleted when you take certain medications. If you have these signs and symptoms, it does not necessarily mean you have low levels of these nutrients. Many factors affect the level of nutrients, including your medical history, diet, and lifestyle, as well as how long you have been taking the medication. Please talk with your health care provider. They can best addresses your health care needs and see if you are at risk for low levels of any nutrients.

Supporting Research

Ames BN. Micronutrient deficiencies: A major cause of DNA damage. Ann NY Acad Sci. 2000;889:87-106.

Cashman K, Flynn A. Optimal nutrition: calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Proc Nutr Soc. 1999;58:477-487.

Dali-Youcef N, Andres E. An update on cobalamin deficiency in adults. QJM. 2009;102(1):17-28.

Pelton R, LaValle J, Hawkins E, et al. Drug-Induced Nutrient Depletion Handbook. 2nd ed. Hudson, OH: LexiComp, Inc.; 2001.

Marx: Rosen's Emergency Medicine. 7th ed. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby; 2009.

Roe DA. Diet and Drug Interactions. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold; 1989:85-86.