What should a patient consume before taking itraconazole (Sporanox) to improve absorption?

Itraconazole is an antifungal medication that has particular absorption characteristics. It is a drug that is best absorbed in an acidic environment. Consuming certain beverages can enhance this absorption by lowering the pH of the stomach.

Cola and orange juice are acidic beverages, which help create the right environment in the stomach for the drug to be absorbed more effectively. This increased acidity improves the solubility of itraconazole, leading to better absorption into the bloodstream.

While water, milk, and tea have different pH levels and effects on drug absorption, they do not provide the same benefit as cola or orange juice. Milk can actually neutralize stomach acid, potentially reducing the absorption of itraconazole, and while tea may have varying levels of acidity depending on how it’s brewed, it generally does not compare to the levels provided by cola or orange juice.

For optimal efficacy of itraconazole, recommending the consumption of an acidic beverage like cola or orange juice is essential for improving its absorption.