Tetracycline & Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics & Dairy Products (Calcium)

HIGH — Separate by 2-4 hours

Mechanism

Calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc chelate tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones in the gut → form insoluble complexes → antibiotic is not absorbed → treatment fails.

Recommendation

Take antibiotic 2h before or 4-6h after dairy or mineral supplements. This interaction can cause complete antibiotic failure — a common cause of "treatment-resistant" infections.

⚠️ Foods to Watch/Manage

milkyogurtcheesecalcium-supplementantacidsiron-supplementzinc-supplement