Drug Interactions Flashcards
Garlic
Anti-coagulants & platelet aggregators (ex: Warfarin or Coumadin), saquinavir (HIV drug), may alter P450 detox of drugs like anti-hypertensives.
Ginkgo
None known (according to Rational Phytotherapy). Possibly anticoagulants - may increase bleeding risk. May interfere with antiepileptics. May alter P450 detox of drugs like anti-hypertensives. May lower seizure threshhold. May reduce diuretic effectiveness.
Red Yeast Rice
statins
Evening primrose oil
Maybe anticoagulants. Reports of seizures used with schizophrenia drugs.
Bromelain
May potentiate anticoagulants & platelet aggregation inhibitors.
May potentiate antibiotics, sedatives (incl herbs). Limit use to 8-10 days
Feverfew
Possibly anticoagulants - may increase bleeding risk
Willow Bark
Same active constituent as aspirin
Kava
No longer approved (or sold) in Germany. Warning label in US. Don’t use with other anxiolytics or alcohol. Don’t use with benzodiazepines - similar effects.
St. John’s Wort
Antibiotic, antidepressant, immunosuppress, anti-epileptic, anti-hypertensive, anti-psychotic, digoxin, chol-lowering, hormone, hypoglycemic. May alter hormone metabolism.
Valerian
Possible additive effect w/alcohol, sedatives(benzodapines, CNS depressants, or barbituates), or kava SJW, & melatonin
Hawthorn
“none known” according to RP. May enhance action of digoxin.
Horse Chestnut
May increase bleeding risk with anticoagulants
German Chamomile
None known.
Ginger
Possibly anticoagulants - may increase bleeding risk
Licorice
Diuretics, meds to reduce potassium
Peppermint
May reduce drug clearance/up potency; barium chloride, pilocarpine, physostigmine
Black Tea
Green tea may alter anticoagulant function.
Flax/ Linseed
Antiperistaltic agents (loperamide, etc). Oil may increase bleeding risk w/ anticoagulants.
Milk Thistle
May increase bleeding risk with anticoagulants
Brewer’s yeast
MAO inhibitor– may cause hypotension.
Saw Palmetto
May increase bleeding risk with anticoagulants
Asian Ginseng
Possibly anticoagulants - may increase bleeding risk. May reduce antipsychotic clearance or exacerbate some psychiatric conditions.
Cordyceps
Inhibit blood platelet aggregation
Echinacea, which uses root extracts
May decrease clearance of antipsychotics
Echinacea, which uses juice of aerial parts
May decrease clearance of antipsychotics
Goldenseal
May interfere with antacids, H2 antagonists, & proton pump inhibitors. Possibly anticoagulants & anti-hypertensives - may alter function. May decrease clearance (CYP2D6) of antipsychotics
Ephedra
Caffeine, stimulants? Banned by FDA in 2004 except from licensed acupuncturists & OMDs
