Can I drink cold tea after taking cephalosporin?

Generally, it is not recommended to drink tea after taking cephalosporins, and cephalosporin medications should not be taken with tea. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Cephalosporins are a class of broad-spectrum antibiotics primarily used to kill a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. They are commonly prescribed for treating conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and lung abscesses. Patients are advised to take the medication 30 minutes to one hour after a meal, which helps reduce irritation to the intestinal mucosa and prolongs the residence time of cephalosporins in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby promoting full absorption and effectiveness of the drug. Tea contains high levels of catecholamines, polyphenols, and theophylline, which can stimulate the body, leading to increased alertness and blood vessel constriction. Drinking tea may interfere with the metabolism of cephalosporins in the body, potentially causing the drug to precipitate and reducing its therapeutic efficacy.

In addition, patients should avoid alcohol consumption while taking cephalosporins, as it may trigger a disulfiram-like reaction, causing adverse effects and potential harm to the body. During treatment, it is important to maintain a light diet and avoid spicy or irritating foods.