Herb & supplement monograph

Diindolylmethane Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

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

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

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Diindolylmethane 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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Diindolylmethane 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 Diindolylmethane drug interaction appears low for most people. None of the listed interactions are rated major, more than half are minor, and even the moderate ones rest on limited or theoretical evidence.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The combination most worth watching involves diuretics that lower sodium, since very large doses of diindolylmethane were linked to two cases of low sodium in research, though neither person had symptoms. We would also pay attention to estrogens, including hormone replacement therapy, because diindolylmethane may have mild hormone-like or hormone-blocking effects that could, in theory, change how these medicines work. Both concerns are based on limited evidence rather than well-documented harm in people.

What the rest of the list means

Diindolylmethane appears alongside a long list of medications, but a listing is not the same as proven harm. Most of these pairings are theoretical, based on lab findings that diindolylmethane might speed up an enzyme the body uses to clear certain medications. That predicted effect has never actually been reported in humans, which is why so many of these interactions are graded minor.

Check your medications against Diindolylmethane

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Diindolylmethane interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Diindolylmethane

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

2,830 drugs
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Pamabrom, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength PMS, Pamprin, Pamprin ES
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Acetaminophen, Pamabrom, Pyrilamine interaction
AcetazolamideAk-Zol, Diamox
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

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

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Amiloride, Hydrochlorothiazide interaction Amiloride, Hydrochlorothiazide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Ammonium ChlorideAmmonium Chloride
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Ammonium Chloride interaction
Atenolol, ChlortalidoneAtenixCo, Tenoret 50, Totaretic
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Atenolol, Chlortalidone interaction
Atenolol, ChlorthalidoneTenoretic
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Atenolol, Chlorthalidone interaction
Azilsartan, ChlorthalidoneEdarbyclor
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Azilsartan, Chlorthalidone interaction
Bazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated EstrogensDuavee
Moderate Estrogens

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase or decrease the effects of estrogens.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Bazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated Estrogens interaction Bazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated Estrogens drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Benazepril, HydrochlorothiazideLotensin HCT
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Benazepril, Hydrochlorothiazide interaction
BendroflumethiazideAprinox, Naturetin, Neo-NaClex
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Bendroflumethiazide interaction
Bendroflumethiazide, NadololCorzide
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Bendroflumethiazide, Nadolol interaction
Bendroflumethiazide, PotassiumCentyl K, Neo-NaClex-K
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Bendroflumethiazide, Potassium interaction
Bendroflumethiazide, Rauwolfia SerpentinaRauzide
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Bendroflumethiazide, Rauwolfia Serpentina interaction
BenzthiazideExna
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Benzthiazide interaction
Bisoprolol, HydrochlorothiazideZiac
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Bisoprolol, Hydrochlorothiazide interaction
BumetanideBurinex
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Bumetanide interaction Bumetanide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Bumetanide, PotassiumBurinex K
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Bumetanide, Potassium interaction
Caffeine, Potassium Salicylate, SalicylamideTrim-Elim
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Caffeine, Potassium Salicylate, Salicylamide interaction
Candesartan Cilexetil, HydrochlorothiazideAtacand HCT
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Candesartan Cilexetil, Hydrochlorothiazide interaction
Captopril, HydrochlorothiazideAcezide, Capozide
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Captopril, Hydrochlorothiazide interaction Captopril, Hydrochlorothiazide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
ChlorothiazideDiuril
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Chlorothiazide interaction Chlorothiazide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Chlorothiazide, MethyldopaAldochlor, Aldoclor 150, Aldoclor 250
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Chlorothiazide, Methyldopa interaction
Chlorothiazide, ReserpineDiupres
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Chlorothiazide, Reserpine interaction
ChlorthalidoneHygroton, Thalitone
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Chlorthalidone interaction Chlorthalidone drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Chlorthalidone, ClonidineClorpres, Combipres
Moderate Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Chlorthalidone, Clonidine interaction
Conjugated EstrogensCenestin, Enjuvia, Premarin, Premarin Vaginal Cream
Moderate Estrogens

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase or decrease the effects of estrogens.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Conjugated Estrogens interaction
Conjugated Estrogens, Medroxyprogesterone AcetatePremplus, Prempro
Moderate Estrogens

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase or decrease the effects of estrogens.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Conjugated Estrogens, Medroxyprogesterone Acetate interaction
Conjugated Estrogens, MeprobamatePMB 200, PMB 400
Moderate Estrogens

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase or decrease the effects of estrogens.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Conjugated Estrogens, Meprobamate interaction
Conjugated Estrogens, MethyltestosteronePremarin with Methyltestosterone
Moderate Estrogens

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase or decrease the effects of estrogens.

Read the full Diindolylmethane + Conjugated Estrogens, Methyltestosterone 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 Diindolylmethane 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 Diindolylmethane affects

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

All 3 drug categories Diindolylmethane interacts with
Diuretic DrugsEstrogensCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates
Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.
Large doses of diindolylmethane (600 mg daily) have been associated with two cases of asymptomatic hyponatremia in clinical research.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Estrogens

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase or decrease the effects of estrogens.
Diindolylmethane might have mild estrogenic or antiestrogenic effects. Theoretically, large amounts of diindolylmethane might interfere with hormone replacement therapy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might lower serum levels of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro evidence suggests that diindolylmethane can induce CYP1A2. Theoretically, it might increase metabolism of CYP1A2 substrates and lower serum concentrations. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Monograph

Diindolylmethane: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a compound made when your body digests cruciferous vegetables, and it is sold as a supplement mainly for hormone balance and cancer prevention. Although early lab studies look interesting, strong human evidence is lacking for most of these uses. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before taking DIM, especially if you have a hormone-sensitive condition.

Diindolylmethane
Part used
A compound formed from indole-3-carbinol found in cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts)
Common forms
Capsules, tablets, softgels (often combined with black pepper extract/BioPerine for absorption)
People commonly use it for
  • Estrogen/hormone balance
  • Acne and hormonal skin issues
  • Prostate health support
  • Cancer-risk reduction (unproven)
  • PMS and menopause symptoms
  • General 'detox' support

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

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Generally well tolerated in short-term studies, but long-term safety is not well established.

PregnancyLikely Safe

When used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. The typical diet supplies 2-24 mg of diindolylmethane daily. There is insufficient reliable infor...

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingLikely Safe

When used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. The typical diet supplies 2-24 mg of diindolylmethane daily. There is insufficient reliable infor...

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.

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Overview

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a natural compound your body creates when it breaks down indole-3-carbinol, a substance found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. So when you eat these vegetables, you naturally make a small amount of DIM during digestion.

As a supplement, DIM is concentrated into capsules or tablets and is marketed mostly for hormone balance, skin health, and as a 'detox' aid. Because DIM is not very well absorbed on its own, many products add black pepper extract (BioPerine) to try to improve absorption.

It is important to know that the amount of DIM in a supplement is much higher than what you would get from eating vegetables.

How it works

DIM is thought to affect how the body metabolizes estrogen. It may encourage the formation of certain estrogen breakdown products that some researchers believe are 'friendlier,' though the real-world meaning of this is still uncertain.

In laboratory studies, DIM has also been shown to influence cell-signaling pathways, support certain detoxification enzymes, and act as an antioxidant. Some lab work suggests it may slow the growth of abnormal cells.

Keep in mind that most of these mechanisms come from test-tube and animal studies. What happens in a lab dish does not always happen in the human body.

Effectiveness

Does Diindolylmethane work?

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

Evidence overview · 9 uses evaluated
9 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.

For Diindolylmethane, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 9 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral diindolylmethane for BPH, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of diindolylmethane for this condition.

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

It is unclear if oral diindolylmethane is beneficial in patients at high risk for developing breast cancer.

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

It is unclear if oral diindolylmethane is beneficial in patients with cervical dysplasia.

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

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

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

Although there is interest in using oral diindolylmethane for mastalgia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of diindolylmethane for this condition.

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

Although there is interest in using oral diindolylmethane for obesity, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of diindolylmethane for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral diindolylmethane for PMS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of diindolylmethane for this condition.

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

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

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

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

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

In short-term studies, DIM has generally been well tolerated. However, its long-term safety is not well known, and high doses have not been carefully studied.

Because DIM may affect hormone activity, people with hormone-sensitive conditions (such as certain breast, uterine, or prostate cancers, or endometriosis) should be especially careful and talk with their doctor first.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable safety information, and DIM may affect hormones. It is best to avoid DIM if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Always tell your pharmacist or doctor about any supplements you take, especially before surgery or if you have a chronic medical condition.

Side effects

Most reported side effects are mild and may include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea or upset stomach
  • Gas or changes in bowel habits
  • Darkening of the urine (a harmless color change some people notice)

Less commonly, some people report changes in their menstrual cycle. Rarely, higher doses have been linked to more concerning effects in case reports, so do not exceed label directions. Stop taking DIM and contact your doctor if you have any unusual or severe symptoms.

Diindolylmethane: Reported Adverse Effects

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

Orally, diindolylmethane is generally well tolerated.

Most Common Adverse Effects:

Orally: Diarrhea, gas, headache, nausea, rash, and vomiting.

Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):

Orally: Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS).

Reports by condition
Cluster headache Neurologic/CNS

Orally, diindolylmethane can cause headache. One case has reported ischemic stroke in a 38-year-old female with a history of a patent foramen ovale (PFO), traumatic subdural hematoma, right partial hemicraniectomy, and use of several supplements, including 200 mg of diindolylmethane daily, vitamin D3, vitamin K2, elderberry, caffeine, and possibly cannabis. It is unclear if diindolylmethane contributed to this event; the patient was at increased risk for stroke due to PFO and other factors.

  1. Reed, G. A., Arneson, D. W., Putnam, W. C., Smith, H. J., Gray, J. C., Sullivan, D. K., Mayo, M. S., Crowell, J. A., and Hurwitz, A. Single-dose and multiple-dose administration of indole-3-carbinol to women: pharmacokinetics based on 3,3'-diindolylmetha
  2. Reed, G. A., Sunega, J. M., Sullivan, D. K., Gray, J. C., Mayo, M. S., Crowell, J. A., and Hurwitz, A. Single-dose pharmacokinetics and tolerability of absorption-enhanced 3,3'-diindolylmethane in healthy subjects. Cancer Epidemiol.Biomarkers Prev. 2008;
  3. Castañon A, Tristram A, Mesher D, Powell N, Beer H, Ashman S, Rieck G, Fielder H, Fiander A, Sasieni P. Effect of diindolylmethane supplementation on low-grade cervical cytological abnormalities: double-blind, randomised, controlled trial. Br J Cancer. 20
  4. Pence ST, Mehta K, Crum-Bailey J. The Serious Side of Supplements: An Ischemic Stroke in a Healthy 38-year-old Female. Mil Med 2022.
Diarrhea Gastrointestinal

Orally, diindolylmethane can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and gas.

  1. Reed, G. A., Arneson, D. W., Putnam, W. C., Smith, H. J., Gray, J. C., Sullivan, D. K., Mayo, M. S., Crowell, J. A., and Hurwitz, A. Single-dose and multiple-dose administration of indole-3-carbinol to women: pharmacokinetics based on 3,3'-diindolylmetha
  2. Reed, G. A., Sunega, J. M., Sullivan, D. K., Gray, J. C., Mayo, M. S., Crowell, J. A., and Hurwitz, A. Single-dose pharmacokinetics and tolerability of absorption-enhanced 3,3'-diindolylmethane in healthy subjects. Cancer Epidemiol.Biomarkers Prev. 2008;
  3. Del Priore G., Gudipudi, D. K., Montemarano, N., Restivo, A. M., Malanowska-Stega, J., and Arslan, A. A. Oral diindolylmethane (DIM): pilot evaluation of a nonsurgical treatment for cervical dysplasia. Gynecol.Oncol. 2010;116(3):464-467.
  4. Heath, E. I., Heilbrun, L. K., Li, J., Vaishampayan, U., Harper, F., Pemberton, P., and Sarkar, F. H. A phase I dose-escalation study of oral BR-DIM (BioResponse 3,3'- Diindolylmethane) in castrate-resistant, non-metastatic prostate cancer. Am.J.Transl.R
  5. Castañon A, Tristram A, Mesher D, Powell N, Beer H, Ashman S, Rieck G, Fielder H, Fiander A, Sasieni P. Effect of diindolylmethane supplementation on low-grade cervical cytological abnormalities: double-blind, randomised, controlled trial. Br J Cancer. 20
Fever Immunologic

In one case report, a patient developed drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) after consuming a product containing diindolylmethane, vitamin E, and broccoli powder. The patient developed fever, activated lymphocytes, and swollen lymph nodes. An allergen patch test was positive for diindolylmethane.

  1. Le TM, Sanders CJ, van de Corput L, van Erpecum KJ, Röckmann H. Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms caused by the dietary supplement diindolylmethane. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2016 Jan-Feb;4(1):175-6.
Knee pain Musculoskeletal

Orally, diindolylmethane has been reported to cause arthralgias.

  1. Dalessandri, K. M., Firestone, G. L., Fitch, M. D., Bradlow, H. L., and Bjeldanes, L. F. Pilot study: effect of 3,3'-diindolylmethane supplements on urinary hormone metabolites in postmenopausal women with a history of early-stage breast cancer. Nutr Canc
Myasthenia gravis Endocrine

Orally, diindolylmethane was associated with grade 3 asymptomatic hyponatremia in 2 of 4 patients taking 600 mg daily for 28 days in one clinical study. Hyponatremia was not seen in the 8 patients taking diindolylmethane 150-450 mg daily.

  1. Heath, E. I., Heilbrun, L. K., Li, J., Vaishampayan, U., Harper, F., Pemberton, P., and Sarkar, F. H. A phase I dose-escalation study of oral BR-DIM (BioResponse 3,3'- Diindolylmethane) in castrate-resistant, non-metastatic prostate cancer. Am.J.Transl.R
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) Hematologic

In one case report, a 65-year-old male developed a deep vein thromboembolism (DVT) and bilateral pulmonary emboli (PE) within a few weeks of initiating treatment with diindolylmethane. It is unclear if diindolylmethane contributed to this event; the patient was at increased risk for emboli due to his age, weight, tobacco use, and possible history of pulmonary embolism.

  1. Bui PV, Moualla M, Upson DJ. A Possible Association of Diindolylmethane with Pulmonary Embolism and Deep Venous Thrombosis. Case Rep Med. 2016;2016:7527098.
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 official, well-established dose for DIM. Supplement products vary widely in strength, and many add black pepper extract to improve absorption.

The safest approach is to follow the directions on the product label and use the lowest amount that seems reasonable. Because higher doses have not been well studied, more is not necessarily better.

Check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting DIM so they can review your health conditions and other medicines.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Diindolylmethane & Pregnancy

Likely Safe

When used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. The typical diet supplies 2-24 mg of diindolylmethane daily. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of diindolylmethane when used in amounts greater than those found in foods during pregnancy and lactation; avoid using.

  1. Natl Inst Health, Natl Inst Environmental Health Sci. Indole-3-carbinol. Available at: http://ntp-server.niehs.nih.gov.
  2. Balk JL. Indole-3-carbinol for cancer prevention. Altern Med Alert 2000; 3:105-7.
  3. Riby JE, Chang GHF, Firestone GL, Bjeldanes LF. Ligand-independent activation of estrogen receptor function by 3,3'-diindolylmethane in human breast cancer cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2000;60:167-77.

Diindolylmethane & Breastfeeding

Likely Safe

When used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. The typical diet supplies 2-24 mg of diindolylmethane daily. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of diindolylmethane when used in amounts greater than those found in foods during pregnancy and lactation; avoid using.

  1. Natl Inst Health, Natl Inst Environmental Health Sci. Indole-3-carbinol. Available at: http://ntp-server.niehs.nih.gov.
  2. Balk JL. Indole-3-carbinol for cancer prevention. Altern Med Alert 2000; 3:105-7.
  3. Riby JE, Chang GHF, Firestone GL, Bjeldanes LF. Ligand-independent activation of estrogen receptor function by 3,3'-diindolylmethane in human breast cancer cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2000;60:167-77.
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 14 references that drive our Diindolylmethane 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. Natl Inst Health, Natl Inst Environmental Health Sci. Indole-3-carbinol. Available at: http://ntp-server.niehs.nih.gov.
  2. Balk JL. Indole-3-carbinol for cancer prevention. Altern Med Alert 2000; 3:105-7.
  3. Riby JE, Chang GHF, Firestone GL, Bjeldanes LF. Ligand-independent activation of estrogen receptor function by 3,3'-diindolylmethane in human breast cancer cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2000;60:167-77. PubMed
  4. Lake BG, Tredger JM, Renwick AB, et al. 3'3-diindolylmethane induces CYP1A2 in cultured precision-cut human liver slices. Xenobiotica 1998;28:803-11. PubMed
  5. Dalessandri, K. M., Firestone, G. L., Fitch, M. D., Bradlow, H. L., and Bjeldanes, L. F. Pilot study: effect of 3,3'-diindolylmethane supplements on urinary hormone metabolites in postmenopausal women with a history of early-stage breast cancer. Nutr Canc PubMed
  6. Reed, G. A., Arneson, D. W., Putnam, W. C., Smith, H. J., Gray, J. C., Sullivan, D. K., Mayo, M. S., Crowell, J. A., and Hurwitz, A. Single-dose and multiple-dose administration of indole-3-carbinol to women: pharmacokinetics based on 3,3'-diindolylmetha
  7. Reed, G. A., Sunega, J. M., Sullivan, D. K., Gray, J. C., Mayo, M. S., Crowell, J. A., and Hurwitz, A. Single-dose pharmacokinetics and tolerability of absorption-enhanced 3,3'-diindolylmethane in healthy subjects. Cancer Epidemiol.Biomarkers Prev. 2008; PubMed
  8. Del Priore G., Gudipudi, D. K., Montemarano, N., Restivo, A. M., Malanowska-Stega, J., and Arslan, A. A. Oral diindolylmethane (DIM): pilot evaluation of a nonsurgical treatment for cervical dysplasia. Gynecol.Oncol. 2010;116(3):464-467. PubMed
  9. Heath, E. I., Heilbrun, L. K., Li, J., Vaishampayan, U., Harper, F., Pemberton, P., and Sarkar, F. H. A phase I dose-escalation study of oral BR-DIM (BioResponse 3,3'- Diindolylmethane) in castrate-resistant, non-metastatic prostate cancer. Am.J.Transl.R
  10. Jellinck, P. H., Forkert, P. G., Riddick, D. S., Okey, A. B., Michnovicz, J. J., and Bradlow, H. L. Ah receptor binding properties of indole carbinols and induction of hepatic estradiol hydroxylation. Biochem.Pharmacol. 3-9-1993;45(5):1129-1136. PubMed
  11. Bui PV, Moualla M, Upson DJ. A Possible Association of Diindolylmethane with Pulmonary Embolism and Deep Venous Thrombosis. Case Rep Med. 2016;2016:7527098. PubMed
  12. Castañon A, Tristram A, Mesher D, Powell N, Beer H, Ashman S, Rieck G, Fielder H, Fiander A, Sasieni P. Effect of diindolylmethane supplementation on low-grade cervical cytological abnormalities: double-blind, randomised, controlled trial. Br J Cancer. 20 PubMed
  13. Le TM, Sanders CJ, van de Corput L, van Erpecum KJ, Röckmann H. Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms caused by the dietary supplement diindolylmethane. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2016 Jan-Feb;4(1):175-6. PubMed
  14. Pence ST, Mehta K, Crum-Bailey J. The Serious Side of Supplements: An Ischemic Stroke in a Healthy 38-year-old Female. Mil Med 2022. PubMed
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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 Diindolylmethane

332 brands in our database make a supplement containing Diindolylmethane.

Product directory

Supplement products with Diindolylmethane

933 products in our database contain Diindolylmethane. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

1-Db Goddess by 1st Phorm Capsule 80 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 17-Beta by iSatori Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 3-Test-OXO by Legal Limit Labs Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 4Life Transfer Factor Plus RiteStart Men by 4Life Unknown 30 Packet(s) View ingredients & interactions Acne Support by Rise-N-Shine Capsule 30 Vegetable Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced Testosterone by GNC Men's Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Alpha by JYM Supplement Science Capsule 240 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Alpha by JYM Supplement Science Capsule 180 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Alpha Cut HD by Science of Alpha Capsule 60 Veggie Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Alpha F by Universal Nutrition Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 30 Pack(s) View ingredients & interactions Alpha F by Universal Nutrition Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 30 Pack(s) View ingredients & interactions Alpha Fuel XT by Science of Alpha Capsule 60 Veggie Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Alpha Gains by Alpha Lion Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Alpha JYM by JYM Capsule 180 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Alpha King Immortal by Force Factor Capsule 180 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Alpha Viril by HFL Platinum Series Capsule 80 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions American Black Cohosh by Bronson Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Anabol EXT by Max Muscle Sports Nutrition Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Anabolic Matrix Rx by IML IronMag Labs Capsule 120 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Anabolic Matrix RX by IronMagLabs Capsule 120 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions AndroBoost by Nutrients for Health Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 60 Caplet(s) View ingredients & interactions AndroDIM by Bio-Tech Pharmacal Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions AndroSense T-Correct by Natural Factors Capsule 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Androsurge by Jacked Factory Capsule 60 Veggie Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Diindolylmethane: Common Questions

What is Diindolylmethane used for, and does it work?
People use Diindolylmethane for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.
Does Diindolylmethane interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 269 medications with a known interaction with Diindolylmethane. Use the checker above to see how Diindolylmethane interacts with a specific drug.
How are Diindolylmethane 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 Diindolylmethane 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 Diindolylmethane 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 is DIM used for?
DIM is most commonly taken to support hormone or estrogen balance, hormonal acne, and prostate health, and it is sometimes marketed for cancer prevention. However, strong human evidence is lacking for these uses.
Can I just eat broccoli instead of taking DIM?
Eating cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and kale gives your body the building blocks to make small amounts of DIM, along with many other nutrients. Supplements contain much higher concentrated amounts than food, which is why their safety and benefits are still uncertain.
Is DIM safe to take during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
There is not enough safety information, and DIM may affect hormones, so it is best to avoid it if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.
Does DIM cause any noticeable side effects?
Some people notice mild headache, nausea, or a harmless darkening of the urine. Stop taking it and contact your doctor if you have any unusual or severe symptoms.

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

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