Herb & supplement monograph

Beta-glucans Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Beta-glucans interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Beta-glucans is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Beta-glucans is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Beta-glucans Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Beta-glucans drug interaction appears low for most people. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and every one rests on theoretical or limited evidence rather than confirmed problems in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

Two groups of medicines deserve the most care. Beta-glucans may lower blood pressure a little in some people, so combining them with blood pressure medications could, in theory, drop pressure further than intended. There is also some research suggesting beta-glucans can stimulate the immune system, which could work against immunosuppressants, the closely monitored medicines used after transplants and for autoimmune conditions. Neither effect has been proven to cause real harm, but these are the situations where we would watch most closely.

What the rest of the list means

Although the list of interacting medications looks long, it really reflects just two broad concerns applied across many individual drugs. Both are theoretical, based on how beta-glucans might affect blood pressure or immune activity, and neither has been shown to cause meaningful problems when the combinations are actually used.

Check your medications against Beta-glucans

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Beta-glucans interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Beta-glucans

293 medications have a known interaction with Beta-glucans, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2,830 drugs
6-mercaptopurinePurinethol
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + 6-mercaptopurine interaction 6-mercaptopurine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AbrocitinibCibinqo
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Abrocitinib interaction Abrocitinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcebutololRhotral, Sectral
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Acebutolol interaction Acebutolol drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcetazolamideAk-Zol, Diamox
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Acetazolamide interaction Acetazolamide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AdalimumabHumira
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Adalimumab interaction Adalimumab drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Adalimumab-adazHyrimoz
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Adalimumab-adaz interaction
Adalimumab-adbmCyltezo
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Adalimumab-adbm interaction
Adalimumab-afzbAbrilada
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Adalimumab-afzb interaction
Adalimumab-attoAmjevita
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Adalimumab-atto interaction
Adalimumab-bwwdHadlima
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Adalimumab-bwwd interaction
Adalimumab-fkjpHulio
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Adalimumab-fkjp interaction
AlefaceptAmevive
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Alefacept interaction
AlemtuzumabCampath
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Alemtuzumab interaction Alemtuzumab drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AliskirenTekturna
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Aliskiren interaction Aliskiren drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AmbrisentanLetairis, Volibris
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Ambrisentan interaction Ambrisentan drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AmilorideAmilamont, Midamor
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Amiloride interaction Amiloride drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Amiloride, HydrochlorothiazideAmil-Co, Amilzide, Moduret 25, Moduretic
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Amiloride, Hydrochlorothiazide interaction Amiloride, Hydrochlorothiazide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AmlodipineNorliqva
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Amlodipine interaction Amlodipine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Amlodipine BenzoateKaterzia
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Amlodipine Benzoate interaction Amlodipine Benzoate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Amlodipine BesilateIstin
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Amlodipine Besilate interaction
Amlodipine BesylateNorvasc
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Amlodipine Besylate interaction Amlodipine Besylate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Amlodipine Besylate, BenazeprilLotrel
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Amlodipine Besylate, Benazepril interaction
Amlodipine, CelecoxibConsensi
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Amlodipine, Celecoxib interaction
Ammonium ChlorideAmmonium Chloride
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Ammonium Chloride interaction
Anifrolumab-fniaSaphnelo
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Anifrolumab-fnia interaction Anifrolumab-fnia drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Antithymocyte GlobulinThymoglobulin
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Antithymocyte Globulin interaction
AprocitentanTryvio
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Aprocitentan interaction Aprocitentan drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AtenololAtenix, Tenormin
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Atenolol interaction Atenolol drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Atenolol, ChlortalidoneAtenixCo, Tenoret 50, Totaretic
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Atenolol, Chlortalidone interaction
Atenolol, ChlorthalidoneTenoretic
Moderate Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Read the full Beta-glucans + Atenolol, Chlorthalidone interaction
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. 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
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Beta-glucans combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Beta-glucans affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Beta-glucans is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 2 drug categories Beta-glucans interacts with
Antihypertensive DrugsImmunosuppressants
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking beta-glucans with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Clinical research shows that taking beta-glucans may reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure in some hypertensive individuals.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, beta-glucans might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Some clinical research shows that beta-glucans have immunostimulant effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Beta-glucans: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Beta-glucans are natural fibers found in oats, barley, mushrooms, and yeast. The strongest evidence supports the oat and barley types for modestly lowering cholesterol and blood sugar, while immune-related claims from yeast and mushroom sources are far less proven. They are generally well tolerated, but check with your pharmacist before starting any supplement.

Part used
Cell walls of yeast, mushrooms, oats, and barley
Common forms
Capsules, tablets, powders, oat or barley foods, topical creams
People commonly use it for
  • High cholesterol
  • Heart health
  • Immune support
  • Blood sugar control
  • Wound care (topical)

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallLikely safe

Beta-glucans from food sources are generally well tolerated by most people.

PregnancyInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Beta-glucans are a type of soluble fiber made of sugar molecules linked together. They are found naturally in the cell walls of certain plants, fungi, and microbes. The most common sources are oats and barley, baker's and brewer's yeast, and several mushrooms (such as maitake, shiitake, and reishi).

Not all beta-glucans are the same. The structure differs depending on the source, and this affects how they behave in the body. Oat and barley beta-glucans are best known for heart and blood sugar benefits, while yeast and mushroom beta-glucans are more often marketed for the immune system.

People take beta-glucans as capsules, powders, and tablets, or simply by eating more oats and barley. Some products are also used on the skin to help with wound care or moisturizing.

How it works

For cholesterol and blood sugar, oat and barley beta-glucans work mainly because they are a thick, gel-forming soluble fiber. In the gut, they form a viscous gel that traps cholesterol and bile acids and slows how quickly sugars are absorbed. The body then uses more cholesterol to make new bile acids, which can lower blood cholesterol levels.

For the immune system, yeast and mushroom beta-glucans are thought to act differently. Laboratory studies suggest they can bind to receptors on certain immune cells and trigger immune activity. Most of this research is from cells and animals, and it is not clear how strongly these effects translate to real-world health benefits in people.

Effectiveness

Does Beta-glucans work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 30 uses evaluated
2 Likely effective 28 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.
Likely Effective Coronary heart disease (CHD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Consuming products containing at least 3.6 grams of soluble fiber, including beta-glucans, per day may reduce the risk of CHD when consumed as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

Likely Effective Dyslipidemia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral beta-glucans modestly reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels.

Also studied for 28 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Aging
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral or topical beta-glucans for aging, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of beta-glucans for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral beta-glucans are beneficial for reducing symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical beta-glucans are beneficial for atopic dermatitis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral beta-glucans for BPH, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of beta-glucans for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cancer
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral beta-glucans for cancer, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of beta-glucans for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Canker sores
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral beta-glucans are beneficial for canker sores.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral beta-glucans for CFS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of beta-glucans for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Critical illness (trauma)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral beta-glucans are beneficial for patients with critical illness.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diabetes
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Small clinical studies in children and adults with type 1 diabetes suggest that beta-glucans do not improve blood glucose levels. It is unclear if oral beta-glucans are beneficial for patients with type 2 diabetes.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Exercise-induced respiratory infections
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

There is conflicting evidence about the effects of beta-glucans on respiratory infections in athletes following competitive events.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Fibromyalgia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral beta-glucans for fibromyalgia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of beta-glucans for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hepatitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral beta-glucans for hepatitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of beta-glucans for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hypertension
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral beta-glucans are beneficial for hypertension; the available evidence is conflicting.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral beta-glucans have only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; their effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral beta-glucans have only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; their effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Laser skin resurfacing
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical beta-glucans are beneficial for improving recovery from laser skin resurfacing.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Lower respiratory tract infections
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral beta-glucans have only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; their effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Lyme disease
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral beta-glucans for Lyme disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of beta-glucans for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Metabolic syndrome
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral beta-glucans are beneficial for metabolic syndrome.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral beta-glucans for MS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of beta-glucans for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Neuroblastoma
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral beta-glucans is beneficial in children or young adults with neuroblastoma.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Obesity
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral beta-glucans are beneficial for obesity.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Otitis media
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral beta-glucans for otitis media, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of beta-glucans for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Postoperative pain
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral beta-glucans are beneficial for reducing abdominal pain after surgery for intestinal polyps.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral beta-glucans for RA, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of beta-glucans for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Stretch marks (striae distensae)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical beta-glucans are beneficial for stretch marks.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral beta-glucans are beneficial for the prevention of URTIs in adults or children.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Wound healing
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using topical beta-glucans for healing of wounds, burns, skin ulcers, and dermatitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of beta-glucans for these purposes.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Beta-glucans from common foods like oats and barley are considered safe and are eaten by people every day. Concentrated supplements are also generally well tolerated, though they have less long-term safety data.

People with a known allergy to the source (such as a yeast, mushroom, or grain allergy) should avoid products made from that source. Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should choose certified gluten-free oat products, since oats can be cross-contaminated with gluten.

For pregnancy and breastfeeding, eating oats and barley as food is generally fine, but there is not enough research on concentrated supplements. To be safe, avoid high-dose supplements unless your doctor or pharmacist approves. If you have a health condition or take medication, talk with a healthcare professional before starting a beta-glucan supplement.

Side effects

Because beta-glucans are a fiber, the most common side effects are digestive. These can include bloating, gas, fullness, and changes in bowel habits, especially when you first increase your intake. Starting with a smaller amount and drinking plenty of water can help.

Serious side effects are uncommon. Rarely, people may have an allergic reaction, particularly to yeast- or mushroom-based products. Stop use and seek care if you notice rash, swelling, or trouble breathing.

Beta-glucans: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Beta-glucans from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Orally and topically, beta-glucans seem to be well-tolerated.

Most Common Adverse Effects:

Topically: Contact dermatitis, skin reactions.

Reports by condition
Dermatitis Dermatologic

Topically, a specific beta-glucans cream (Imunoglukan P4H, PLEURAN s.r.o.) has been reported to cause skin reactions and contact dermatitis in one clinical trial. These reactions occurred in 27% of patients; reactions were mild and self-limiting in 12% of patients.

  1. Jesenak M, Urbancek S, Majtan J, Banovcin P, Hercogova J. ß-Glucan-based cream (containing pleuran isolated from pleurotus ostreatus) in supportive treatment of mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis. J Dermatolog Treat 2016;27(4):351-4.
Myasthenia gravis Hematologic

In one clinical trial of children and young adults with neuroblastoma, one of 44 patients developed transient elevations of aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase within five days of starting oral beta-glucans 120 mg/kg daily.

  1. Cardenas FI, Mauguen A, Cheung IY, et al. Phase I trial of oral yeast-derived ß-glucan to enhance anti-GD2 immunotherapy of resistant high-risk neuroblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021;13(24):6265.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no single "official" supplement dose for all beta-glucans, and the right amount depends on the source and the product. For cholesterol benefits from oats and barley, health authorities often refer to a daily amount of beta-glucan as part of the diet, which can be reached by eating oat and barley foods or using a labeled supplement.

Yeast and mushroom beta-glucan supplements vary widely, and a clearly proven dose has not been established. The best approach is to follow the directions on the product label and check with your pharmacist or doctor, who can help you pick a product and amount that fits your health goals.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Beta-glucans & Pregnancy

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Beta-glucans & Breastfeeding

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 11 references that drive our Beta-glucans monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. Katz, D. L., Nawaz, H., Boukhalil, J., Giannamore, V., Chan, W., Ahmadi, R., and Sarrel, P. M. Acute effects of oats and vitamin E on endothelial responses to ingested fat. Am.J.Prev.Med. 2001;20(2):124-129. PubMed
  2. Keenan, J. M., Pins, J. J., Frazel, C., Moran, A., and Turnquist, L. Oat ingestion reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with mild or borderline hypertension: a pilot trial. J.Fam.Pract. 2002;51(4):369.
  3. Maki, K. C., Galant, R., Samuel, P., Tesser, J., Witchger, M. S., Ribaya-Mercado, J. D., Blumberg, J. B., and Geohas, J. Effects of consuming foods containing oat beta-glucan on blood pressure, carbohydrate metabolism and biomarkers of oxidative stress i
  4. Bergendiova, K., Tibenska, E., and Majtan, J. Pleuran (beta-glucan from Pleurotus ostreatus) supplementation, cellular immune response and respiratory tract infections in athletes. Eur.J.Appl.Physiol 2011;111(9):2033-2040.
  5. Talbott S, Talbott J. Effect of beta 1,3/1,6 glucan on respiratory tract infection symptoms and mood state in marathon athletes. J Sports Sci Med 2009;8(4):509-515.
  6. Feldman S, Schwartz HI Kalman DS Mayers A Kohrman HM Clemens R Krieger DR. Randomized phase II clinical trials of Wellmune WGP® for immune support during cold and flu season. The Journal of Applied Research 2009;9(1-2):30-42.
  7. McFarlin BK, Carpenter KC, Davidson T, McFarlin MA. Baker's yeast beta glucan supplementation increases salivary IgA and decreases cold/flu symptomatic days after intense exercise. J Diet Suppl. 2013;10(3):171-83. PubMed
  8. Jesenak M, Urbancek S, Majtan J, Banovcin P, Hercogova J. ß-Glucan-based cream (containing pleuran isolated from pleurotus ostreatus) in supportive treatment of mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis. J Dermatolog Treat 2016;27(4):351-4.
  9. Mah E, Kaden VN, Kelley KM, Liska DJ. Beverage containing dispersible yeast ß-glucan decreases cold/flu symptomatic days after intense exercise: a randomized controlled trial. J Diet Suppl 2020;17(2):200-10. PubMed
  10. Zhong K, Liu Z, Lu Y, Xu X. Effects of yeast ß-glucans for the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infection in healthy subjects: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Nutr. 2021. PubMed
  11. Cardenas FI, Mauguen A, Cheung IY, et al. Phase I trial of oral yeast-derived ß-glucan to enhance anti-GD2 immunotherapy of resistant high-risk neuroblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021;13(24):6265. PubMed
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

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

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Beta-glucans

276 brands in our database make a supplement containing Beta-glucans.

Product directory

Supplement products with Beta-glucans

1,075 products in our database contain Beta-glucans. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

100% Whole Food Prenatal by Whole Body Research Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 5 Defenders Capsules by Real Mushrooms Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 5 Defenders Capsules by Real Mushrooms Capsule 200 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 5 Defenders Powder by Real Mushrooms Powder 100 Gram(s) · 3.53 Ounce(s) View ingredients & interactions 5 Defenders Powder by Real Mushrooms Powder 45 Gram(s) · 1.59 Ounce(s) View ingredients & interactions Accell Therapeutic by Systemic Formulas Powder 920 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions Activate Immune Complex by Vitality For Life Capsule 30 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Activate Immune Complex For Kids Orange Flavored by Vitality For Kids Tablet Or Pill 30 Smart Chew(s) View ingredients & interactions Active Hexose Correlated Compound by Fresh Nutrition Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Adult Daily by Oweli Capsule 60 Veggie Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Adult Prebiotic and Probiotic Immunity Formula Blueberry by SmartyPants Gummy Or Jelly 60 Gummy(ies) View ingredients & interactions Adult Prebiotic and Probiotic Immunity Formula Blueberry by SmartyPants Gummy Or Jelly 40 Gummy(ies) View ingredients & interactions Adult Prebiotic and Probiotic Immunity Formula Strawberry Creme by SmartyPants Gummy Or Jelly 60 Gummy(ies) View ingredients & interactions Adult Prebiotic and Probiotic Immunity Formula Strawberry Creme by SmartyPants Gummy Or Jelly 40 Gummy(ies) View ingredients & interactions Adult Sleep by SmartyPants Functional Gummy Or Jelly 42 Vegetarian Gummie(s) View ingredients & interactions Adult Sleep by SmartyPants Functional Gummy Or Jelly 28 Vegetarian Gummy(ies) View ingredients & interactions Adult's Daily Immune Wellness by Buried Treasure Liquid Nutrients Liquid 16 fl. Oz. · 473 mL View ingredients & interactions Advanced Immune Support by Human N Tablet Or Pill 60 Fast-Melting Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced Immune Support by Higher Nature Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced Immune Support by Higher Nature Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced Multivitamins For Men by ANTIAGING Institute of California Capsule 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced Mushroom Defense 900 mg by NusaPure Capsule 150 Veg Cap(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced PhytoShield Maximum Immune by Healthy Directions Capsule 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced PhytoShield Stress + Immune by Healthy Directions Capsule 30 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions
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Beta-glucans: Common Questions

What is Beta-glucans used for, and does it work?
People use Beta-glucans for many reasons, but the evidence varies by use. According to the Natural Medicines database, there is at least some clinical evidence supporting Beta-glucans for Coronary heart disease (CHD) and Dyslipidemia. For most other uses it has been studied for, the evidence is currently insufficient to rate. See the graded list on this page, and always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Does Beta-glucans interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 293 medications with a known interaction with Beta-glucans. Use the checker above to see how Beta-glucans interacts with a specific drug.
How are Beta-glucans interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Beta-glucans with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Beta-glucans interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What are Beta-glucans used for?
They are most often used to help lower cholesterol and support blood sugar control (oat and barley types) and for general immune support (yeast and mushroom types). The cholesterol benefit has the strongest evidence.
Can I just get Beta-glucans from food?
Yes. Oats and barley are rich, natural sources, and eating them regularly is an easy way to get Beta-glucans along with other nutrients. Supplements are an option if you want a more concentrated amount.
Are beta-glucan supplements safe?
For most healthy adults they are generally well tolerated, with digestive side effects like gas and bloating being the most common. People with allergies to the source or with certain health conditions should check with a pharmacist or doctor first.
Are Beta-glucans safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Eating oats and barley as food is generally fine, but there isn't enough research on concentrated supplements. To be safe, avoid high-dose supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless your doctor approves.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Products that contain Beta-glucans

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Beta-glucans — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

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