4. Painkillers: Some over-the-counter painkillers, such as those containing aspirin or paracetamol, include added caffeine.
Coffee can speed up how quickly these drugs are absorbed by accelerating how fast the stomach empties and making the stomach more acidic, which improves absorption for some medications such as aspirin.
While this may help painkillers work faster, it could also raise the risk of side-effects like stomach irritation or bleeding, especially when combined with other sources of caffeine.
Though no serious cases have been reported, caution is still advised.
5. Heart medications: Caffeine can temporarily raise blood pressure and heart rate, typically lasting three-to-four hours after consumption.
For people taking blood pressure medication or drugs that control irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), this may counteract the intended effects of the medication.
This doesn’t mean people with heart conditions must avoid coffee altogether but they should monitor how it affects their symptoms, and consider limiting intake or switching to decaf if needed.
What can you do? Coffee may be part of your daily routine, but it’s also a potent chemical compound that can influence how your body processes medicine.
Here’s how to make sure it doesn’t interfere
Take levothyroxine or bisphosphonates on an empty stomach with water, and wait 30-60 minutes before drinking coffee or eating breakfast.
Be cautious with cold and flu remedies, asthma treatments and ADHD medications, as caffeine can amplify side-effects.
If you’re on antidepressants, antipsychotics, or blood pressure drugs, discuss your caffeine habits with your doctor.
Consider reducing intake or choosing a decaffeinated option if you experience side-effects like restlessness, insomnia or heart palpitations.
Everyone metabolises caffeine differently some people feel fine after three cups, while others get side-effects after just one.
Pay attention to how your body responds and talk to your pharmacist or GP if anything feels off.
If you’re ever unsure whether your medicine and your coffee are a good match, ask your pharmacist or doctor.
A short conversation might save you weeks of side-effects or reduced treatment effectiveness and help you enjoy your brew with peace of mind.
