Griffonia Simplicifolia - Lexapro (Escitalopram) Interaction
Herbal: Griffonia Simplicifolia
Also Known As: Bandeiraea simplicifolia
Drug: Escitalopram
Brand names:
Lexapro
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 26, 2024
Interaction Details
Escitalopram is classified as belonging to the following category: Antidepressant Drugs
Theoretically, taking Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract with antidepressant drugs might increase the risk of serotonergic adverse effects, such as serotonin syndrome and cerebral vasoconstrictive disorders such as Call-Fleming syndrome.
Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract contains 5-HTP. Taking 5-HTP with antidepressant drugs increases the risk of serotonergic adverse effects.
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
- Singhal AB, Caviness VS, Begleiter AF, et al. Cerebral vasoconstriction and stroke after use of serotonergic drugs. Neurology 2002;58:130-3.
- Lemaire PA, Adosraku RK. An HPLC method for the direct assay of the serotonin precursor, 5-hydroxytrophan, in seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia. Phytochem Anal 2002;13(6):333-7.
Griffonia Simplicifolia Overview
Griffonia simplicifolia is a perennial shrub native to West and Central Africa. The plant has small, white flowers and dark green leaves, and it produces long, thin pods containing shiny, black seeds. The seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia are used in herbal medicine as a natural source of 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan), a precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin. The seed contains approximately 6% to 10% 5-HTP.
Escitalopram Overview
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Escitalopram is used to treat depression in adults and children and teenagers 12 years of ago or older. Escitalopram is also used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD; excessive worry and tension that disrupts daily life and lasts for 6 months or longer) in adults. Escitalopram is in a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing the amount of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance.
Griffonia Simplicifolia - More Interactions
Griffonia Simplicifolia interacts with 315 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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