Gymnema - Exelon (Rivastigmine) Interaction
Herbal: Gymnema
Also Known As: Gymnema sylvestre, Gimnema, Gur-Mar, Gurmar, Gurmari, Gurmarbooti, Gurmur, Gymnéma, Gymnéma Sylvestre, Madhunashini, Merasingi, Meshasring, Meshashringi, Miracle Plant, Periploca of the Woods, Shardunika, Vishani
Drug: Rivastigmine
Brand names:
Exelon, Exelon Patch
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Apr 13, 2024
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Rivastigmine and Gymnema. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Gymnema Overview
Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre) is a plant species native to India and Africa that has been used traditionally in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat a range of conditions, including diabetes, obesity, and digestive problems.
Gymnema is thought to work by inhibiting the absorption of sugar in the intestines and by increasing the production of insulin in the pancreas. If applied topically to the tongue, it reduces the sweetness and bitter sensation of foods, which may deter excess sugar intake (the plant is sometimes referred to informally as 'the sugar destroyer').
One of the most popular natural medicines utilized for dietary supplements, an extract of the leaf (Gymnema leaf extract) is the most often standardized for use, although the root can be used as well.
Rivastigmine Overview
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Rivastigmine is used to treat dementia (a brain disorder that affects the ability to remember, think clearly, communicate, and perform daily activities and may cause changes in mood and personality) in people with Alzheimer's disease (a brain disease that slowly destroys the memory and ability to think, learn, communicate and handle daily activities). Rivastigmine is also used to treat dementia in people with Parkinson's disease (a brain and nervous system disease with symptoms of slowing of movement, muscle weakness, shuffling walk, and loss of memory). Rivastigmine is in a class of medications called cholinesterase inhibitors. It improves mental function (such as memory and thinking) by increasing the amount of a certain natural substance in the brain.
Gymnema - More Interactions
Gymnema interacts with 806 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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