Beet - Acetazolamide Interaction

Interaction Details

Acetazolamide is classified as belonging to the following category: Antihypertensive Drugs

Beet and beetroot contain nitrates, which can cause vasodilation, potentially leading to lower blood pressure. However, a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition using concentrated beetroot juice found no significant impact on blood pressure or heart rate in different age groups. Other small clinical studies suggest that while beet consumption might transiently lower blood pressure due to vessel dilation, there's no consistent evidence of a lasting effect. Overall, the theoretical risk of reduced blood pressure due to beet's nitrate content exists, but studies generally indicate a low and temporary impact rather than a sustained decrease.

Interaction Rating

Likelihood of Occurrence

Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists

Pharmacist Analysis

Several studies confirm the mild blood pressure-lowering effects of beetroot, attributed to its nitrates. However, as mentioned above, these effects are typically temporary.

Concerning the combination of beet supplements with blood pressure medications, there is a potential issue with a temporary drop in blood pressure due to the combined effects of beet nitrates causing vasodilation and the blood pressure-lowering effect of antihypertensives. This additive effect could result in side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and lightheadedness.

As a pharmacist, a crucial counseling point for individuals taking blood pressure medications, especially when initiating treatment, is to be aware of the potential for lightheadedness and dizziness as they may increase the risk of falls. This risk may be further increased when combined with a supplement like beet.

References

• All-natural nitrite and nitrate containing dietary supplement promotes nitric oxide production and reduces triglycerides in humans. PubMed
• Acute ingestion of beetroot bread increases endothelium-independent vasodilation and lowers diastolic blood pressure in healthy men: a randomized controlled trial.PubMed
• The effect of beetroot inorganic nitrate supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors: A systematic review and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials. PubMed

Acetazolamide Overview

• Acetazolamide is used to treat glaucoma, a condition in which increased pressure in the eye can lead to gradual loss of vision. Acetazolamide decreases the pressure in the eye. Acetazolamide is also used to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms (upset stomach, headache, shortness of breath, dizziness, drowsiness, and fatigue) of altitude (mountain) sickness. Acetazolamide is used with other medicines to reduce edema (excess fluid retention) and to help control seizures in certain types of epilepsy.

• This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Beet - More Interactions

Beet interacts with 837 drugs

Interaction Rating Key

These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.