The effect of medications and dietary supplements on laboratory test results

How Medications and Supplements Affect Lab Test Results

How Medications and Supplements Affect Lab Test Results

Lab tests are an important part of diagnosing and monitoring health. However, the accuracy of these tests can sometimes be influenced by medications or dietary supplements. This may cause misleading or inaccurate results. In this article, we explain the most common drugs and supplements that affect test results, and how you can prepare properly before testing.

Why Do Medications Change Lab Results?

There are several reasons why medicines and supplements interfere with test accuracy:

  • They may change blood chemistry or urine composition.
  • They can interact with chemicals used in lab machines.
  • Some drugs affect liver enzymes, altering metabolism.
  • They can disturb fluid and electrolyte balance in the body.

Common Medications That Affect Tests

Here are some widely used medications and the tests they may change:

Medication Affected Test Effect
Aspirin Blood clotting (INR) May increase bleeding time
Corticosteroids Blood sugar, cholesterol Can raise glucose and fat levels
Antibiotics (e.g. tetracycline) Liver function May increase liver enzyme levels
Diuretics Electrolytes (sodium, potassium) May lower potassium or sodium
Antidepressants Hormone tests May alter hormone levels

Supplements and Their Effects

Many people take vitamins and minerals, but some can also cause misleading lab results:

  1. Vitamin C: High doses may give false-negative urine glucose tests.
  2. Biotin (Vitamin B7): Can affect thyroid tests and some heart-related assays.
  3. Calcium & Magnesium: May alter kidney function test results.
  4. Iron: Can increase ferritin levels, affecting iron storage evaluation.

How to Prepare for Lab Tests While Taking Medications

To ensure accurate results, patients should:

  • Inform the doctor or lab technician about all medications and supplements.
  • Follow instructions about pausing certain drugs if advised by a physician.
  • Fast when required (e.g. for glucose or lipid tests).
  • Avoid taking high doses of vitamins before certain tests.

Real-Life Examples

  • A patient on Warfarin: INR test may show stronger effects, so doctors need accurate dosage information.
  • Someone taking creatine supplements: Kidney tests (creatinine) may show abnormal results.
  • Women using birth control pills: May affect hormone tests and liver proteins.

Tips for Patients and Doctors

  • Doctors should always ask about medicines and supplements.
  • Patients must not hide any information about what they take daily.
  • Confirm diagnosis with multiple tests instead of relying on one result.

Conclusion

Medications and supplements can significantly influence lab test results. Awareness of these effects helps both patients and doctors avoid misdiagnosis. Always communicate clearly with your healthcare provider, follow instructions before testing, and never assume supplements are harmless for lab accuracy.

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