How long before and after taking medication should one avoid eating watermelon?

Generally, it is recommended to wait 1-2 hours after taking medication before eating watermelon. Medication use should follow medical advice. A detailed explanation is as follows:

When taking regular formulations such as conventional tablets or capsules, if the drug is absorbed relatively quickly in the gastrointestinal tract and has no obvious interaction with components in watermelon, an interval of 1 hour is usually sufficient. At this point, the drug has generally completed its initial absorption, and eating watermelon will not significantly affect its efficacy.

However, when taking extended-release formulations, enteric-coated tablets, or other special dosage forms, or if the drug's label explicitly states that a longer interval with food is required, or if its components might react with the sugar or water content in watermelon, then a 2-hour interval is advised. This ensures sufficient time for the drug to be properly released and absorbed in the body, avoiding any impact of watermelon on the drug's stability or bioavailability.

Before taking any medication, carefully read the drug's package insert to understand any requirements regarding food interactions. If unsure about the drug type or appropriate interval, consult a physician or pharmacist. Never arbitrarily shorten or extend the interval. When eating watermelon, consume it in moderation to avoid excessive intake of water, which could affect the drug's concentration in the gastrointestinal tract. If discomfort occurs after eating watermelon following medication intake, seek medical attention promptly to identify the cause.