Risk 357 - Drug Nutrient Interactions 
              Risk description 
              Use of an over-the-counter or prescription drug or medication 
              that is known to interfere with nutrient intake, absorption, 
              distribution, metabolism or excretion and has a negative effect on 
              nutritional status.  
              Reason for risk 
              Nutrient deficiency caused by an over-the-counter or prescription 
              medication or drug is usually slow to develop and occurs most 
              often in long-term drug treatment of chronic disease. This can 
              impact functions such as bone formation, immune system and 
              energy metabolism. 
              Possible side effects of drugs that could affect nutritional status 
              include but are not limited to: 
                    Changes to taste or smell 
                    Changes to appetite 
                    Change in nutrient metabolism or absorption 
                    Stomach upset 
                    Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and/or constipation 
                    A dry or sore mouth 
                    Increased rate of nutrient excretion in the urine 
              For the most current information on drug nutrient interactions, 
              refer to a current reference, such as: 
                    Physician’s Desk Reference (available online 
                     www.pdrhealth.com) 
                    Drug packaging inserts 
                    Food-Medication Interactions  
                    Medications and Mothers’ Milk by Dr. Thomas Hale 
              Oregon WIC Training – Nutrition Risk Module – May 2020                        Page 1 of 2 
                               Risk 357 - Drug Nutrient Interactions 
                  
            Category           All 
            Risk level         High 
            At risk if:        Participant is taking an over-the-counter or 
                               prescription medication or drug that affects 
                               their nutritional status 
            Not at risk if:    Participant is not taking an over-the-counter 
                               or prescription medication or drug  
                                     OR 
                               Use of an over-the-counter or prescription 
                               medication or drug is not affecting nutritional 
                               status 
            How is risk        Certifier selected on the health history 
            assigned?          questionnaire in the data system. 
            Additional         Document the specific drug in the data 
            documentation  system. Referral to the RD is required. 
            
            
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