Our Members Asked:
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?

Answer:
Yes, it's well-known that grapefruit juice can interact with many medications, including certain cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, blood pressure drugs, antihistamines, and sedatives. One of the ways grapefruit does this is by inhibiting CYP3A4, an enzyme in the liver and intestine that helps metabolize (break down) approximately 50% of all medications. This can lead to potentially excessive blood levels of these medications, increasing their effects and side effects.
Many supplements can also inhibit (and in some cases, activate) CYP3A4 and interact with many of the same medications.
Below is a list of some of the supplements known to inhibit CYP3A4. More details about each are found in our linked Product Reviews and CL Answers:
- Green Tea
- Curcumin/Turmeric (Curcumin may also activate CYP3A4)
- Black pepper extract (piperine or Bioperine) -- a bioavailability enhancer in some curcumin and CoQ10 formulas
- CBD Oil (cannabidiol)
- Goldenseal/Berberine
- Echinacea
- Ginger
Be aware that St. John's wort can activate CYP3A4, causing a decrease in the activity of many drugs.
To see a list of medications that are metabolized by CYP3A4, sign in >>
Join today to unlock all member benefits including full access to all CL Answers and over 1,300 reviews.
Join NowAlready a member? Sign In Here.
Join now at www.consumerlab.com/join/
Submit your comment
This feature is restricted to active members.
Join now to add comments and get all member benefits, including over 1,300 reviews.
Join NowAlready a member? Sign in here.