Chokeberry - Plan B (Levonorgestrel) Interaction
Herbal: Chokeberry
Also Known As: Aronia arbutifolia, Aronia melanocarpa, Aronia nigra, Aronia prunifolia
Drug: Levonorgestrel
Brand names:
Plan B, Mirena, Levonelle One Step, Levonelle 1500, Norgeston, Skyla, Liletta, Kyleena
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jul 22, 2023
Interaction Details
Levonorgestrel is classified as belonging to the following category: Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, chokeberry might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research shows that chokeberry inhibits CYP3A4. In humans, there is one case report of a drug interaction with trabectedin, a CYP3A4 substrate, which is hypothesized to have been caused by chokeberry inhibition of CYP3A4.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction 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
References
- Bräunlich M, Christensen H, Johannesen S, Slimestad R, Wangensteen H, Malterud KE, Barsett H. In vitro inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 by Aronia melanocarpa constituents. Planta Med. 2013 Jan;79(2):137-41.
- Strippoli S, Lorusso V, Albano A, Guida M. Herbal-drug interaction induced rhabdomyolysis in a liposarcoma patient receiving trabectedin. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2013 Jul 30;13:199.
Chokeberry Overview
Chokeberry, from the aronia shrub, is a fruit widely enjoyed in Eastern Europe and Russia. It serves as a versatile ingredient for various products, including fruit syrup, juice, tea, spreads, jellies, and alcoholic beverages like spirits and wines. The black chokeberry variant is particularly favored for its use in fruit production. Beyond its culinary applications, chokeberry has a traditional association with alleviating symptoms of the common cold.
Levonorgestrel Overview
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Levonorgestrel is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse (sex without any method of birth control or with a birth control method that failed or was not used properly [e.g., a condom that slipped or broke or birth control pills that were not taken as scheduled]). Levonorgestrel should not be used to prevent pregnancy on a regular basis. This medication is to be used as an emergency contraceptive or backup in case regular birth control fails or is used incorrectly. Levonorgestrel is in a class of medications called progestins. It works by preventing the release of an egg from the ovary or preventing fertilization of the egg by sperm (male reproductive cells). It also may work by changing the lining of the uterus (womb) to prevent development of a pregnancy. Levonorgestrel may prevent pregnancy, but it will not prevent the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV, the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS]) and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Chokeberry - More Interactions
Chokeberry interacts with 764 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.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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