Ginger - Flagyl (Metronidazole) Interaction
Herbal: Ginger
Also Known As: Zingiber officinale, African Ginger, Ardraka, Black Ginger, Cochin Ginger, Gan Jiang, Gingembre, Ginger Root, Imber, Indian Ginger, Jengibre, Jiang, Kankyo, Kanshokyo, Nagara, Rhizoma Zingiberis, Shen Jiang, Sheng Jiang, Shoga, Shokyo, Shunthi, Srungavera, Sunth, Sunthi
Drug: Metronidazole
Brand names:
Flagyl, Protostat, Metronidazole, Nidazol, Trikacide, MetroGel, Flagyl IV, Metronidazole Redi-Infusion, Flagyl IV RTU, Metro IV, Anabact, Metrosa, Metrotop, Noritate, Rozex Cream, Rozex Gel, Zyomet
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jul 22, 2023
Interaction Details
Metronidazole is classified as belonging to the following category: Metronidazole (Flagyl)
Theoretically, ginger might increase levels of metronidazole.
In an animal model, ginger increased the absorption and plasma half-life of metronidazole. In addition, the elimination rate and clearance of metronidazole was significantly reduced.
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
- Okonta JM, Uboh M, Obonga WO. Herb-Drug Interaction: A Case Study of Effect of Ginger on the Pharmacokinetic of Metronidazole in Rabbit. Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences (India) 2008;70(230):232.
Ginger Overview
Ginger is a spice native to Asia and part of the Zingiberaceae family. It has a pungent, spicy flavor and is often used to add flavor to dishes and drinks.
Ginger has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other medicinal properties. It is commonly used to treat nausea, motion sickness, and other digestive issues. Ginger is also sometimes used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Ginger supplements generally standardize several compounds found in the root, and are often labeled as containing a certain amount of 'ginger root extract'.
Metronidazole Overview
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Metronidazole capsules and tablets are used to treat infections of the reproductive system, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, skin, heart, bone, joint, lung, blood, nervous system, and other areas of the body. Metronidazole capsules and tablets are also used to treat sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Metronidazole extended-release (long-acting) tablets are used to treat bacterial vaginosis (an infection caused by too much of certain types of harmful bacteria in the vagina) in women. Metronidazole is in a class of medications called nitroimidazole antimicrobials. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
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Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
Ginger - More Interactions
Ginger interacts with 230 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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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
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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