Is it okay to take medication on an empty stomach?

Should mainly be determined according to the type of medication. For example, gastric mucosal protectants and antituberculous drugs need to be taken on an empty stomach. However, for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics, it is not recommended to take them on an empty stomach. Taking medication on an empty stomach and after meals are two ways of taking medication. Due to the large variety of medications, the specific method of taking them will also differ. Some medications need to be taken on an empty stomach, such as gastric mucosal protectants (like sucralfate) and antituberculous drugs (like rifampicin). Taking these medications on an empty stomach can improve their absorption effect, thereby better exerting the therapeutic efficacy of the drugs. But some medications cannot be taken on an empty stomach, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen and indomethacin) and antibiotics (like amoxicillin). These medications have a greater irritant effect on the gastric mucosa. Taking them on an empty stomach may cause ulcers, erosion, and bleeding of the gastric mucosa. They should be taken after meals to reduce irritation and damage to the gastric mucosa. Due to differences in medications, whether to take medication on an empty stomach needs to be analyzed based on actual situations and cannot be generalized. If unsure whether a medication can be taken on an empty stomach, one should consult a doctor or pharmacist for advice. During medication, a light diet should be maintained, and smoking and drinking should be avoided.