1. Home
  2. / CL Answers
  3. / Are there supplements that I should avoid when taking clopidogrel (Plavix)?

Our Members Asked:

Are there supplements that I should avoid when taking clopidogrel (Plavix)?

Reviewed and edited by Tod Cooperman, M.D. cooperman.png

Initially Posted: 11/14/2020

Recent CL Answers

Answer:

Yes, certain supplements may increase or decrease the effectiveness of clopidogrel (Plavix). This can increase the risk of bleeding or, conversely, increase the risk of blood clots. Clopidogrel is a "prodrug," meaning it must be broken down by the body to become active. Two liver enzymes, CYP3A4 and CYP2C19, are responsible for this. Consequently, supplements that interfere with these enzymes may reduce the effectiveness of clopidogrel, while supplements that that induce these enzymes may increase the activity of clopidogrel.

For details about which supplements can interfere with these anticoagulants, read the full answer.

Join today to unlock all member benefits including full access to all CL Answers and over 1,300 reviews.

Join Now

Join now at www.consumerlab.com/join/

Comments

Related CL Answers (8)

Are there supplements I should avoid when taking apixaban (Eliquis) or similar blood thinner drugs like Xarelto?

Learn about supplement interactions with apixaban (Eliquis), rivaroxaban (Xarelto) and other blood thinner drugs in the direct factor Xa inhibitors class. Supplements that may interact with these medications include fish oil and St. John's wort. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

I'm considering taking vitamin K for my bones, but I take blood thinner (anticoagulant) medication. Is there a problem taking both?

Learn more about vitamin K, including info on interactions with blood thinners such as Coumadin and Jantoven, its effects on bones & impact on clotting. ConsumerLab's answer explains.

Is it safe to take CoQ10 while taking blood thinners like warfarin or Plavix (clopidogrel)?

Learn more about the possible counteractive effects of CoQ10 and blood thinners, including safety. ConsumerLab's answer explains.

Which vitamins and minerals should be taken together or separately?

Find out the best way to take vitamins and minerals and which vitamins and minerals should be taken together or separately for proper absorption. ConsumerLab answer explains the best way to take vitamins and minerals .

I take warfarin (Coumadin), an anticoagulant drug. Are there supplements I should avoid, or be taking, due to this drug?

Find out which supplements should be avoided when taking blood thinners (anticoagulants) like warfarin (Coumadin), including vitamin K, St. John's wort, and curcumin. ConsumerLab's answer explains.

Are there any supplements I should avoid when taking aspirin or ibuprofen?

Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like Advil, Tylenol, and Motrin in combination with supplements could cause side effects. ConsumerLab's answer explains.

What are the most common, potentially dangerous interactions between supplements and drugs?

Info on the most common, potentially dangerous, interactions between drugs & supplements, including Lisinopril interactions and others. ConsumerLab's answer explains.

I've heard that grapefruit juice can interact with medications because it inhibits an enzyme that breaks down drugs in the body. Do any supplements interact the same way with drugs?

CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as grapefruit, can interact with certain medications by inhibiting the liver enzyme that metabolizes many drugs. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Be the first to comment

Join today to unlock all member benefits including full access to CL Answers

Join Now

Join now at www.consumerlab.com/join/