Tribulus Interactions Overview

Additional Details

Is Tribulus Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Tribulus is considered possibly safe when used orally and appropriately in the short term. Daily doses of 750-1500 mg of tribulus extract or 6 grams of powdered tribulus fruit have been used safely for up to 90 days. However, there is not enough information to determine its safety for longer use or in larger doses. Consuming the spine-covered fruit orally is likely unsafe and may lead to serious side effects.

Pregnant women should avoid using tribulus orally, as it may have adverse effects on fetal development. There is insufficient information available about its safety during lactation.

How Is Tribulus Thought To Work?

Tribulus contains various compounds such as beta-carboline indoleamines, flavonoids, and saponins like diosgenin and protodioscin. These components contribute to its effects. Tribulus has been found to have anticancer, antifungal, anthelmintic, and anti-diabetic properties in laboratory studies. It may also have cardiovascular benefits, including anti-anginal and blood pressure-lowering effects. Tribulus has shown potential in improving sexual dysfunction and erectile dysfunction in both males and females. Some evidence suggests that it affects hormone levels, particularly testosterone. However, more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action.

Pharmacokinetics

There is insufficient reliable information available about the pharmacokinetics of tribulus. Further research is needed to understand how the body processes and absorbs tribulus compounds.

Interaction Overview (See Below For Full List)

Tribulus may interact with certain medications and supplements. Caution should be exercised when using tribulus in combination with antidiabetes drugs and antihypertensive drugs, as it may increase the risk of hypoglycemia and hypotension, respectively. There is also a potential interaction between tribulus and lithium, which may increase the levels and effects of lithium. Additionally, tribulus may interact with herbs and supplements that have hypoglycemic or hypotensive effects. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before combining tribulus with any medications or supplements.

Common Side Effects To Watch For

In general, tribulus is well tolerated when taken orally. However, there have been rare reports of serious side effects, including liver and kidney injury, seizures, and chronic painful erection with impaired sexual function. Other reported adverse effects include pneumothorax and bronchial polyp after consuming the spine-covered tribulus fruit. It is important to monitor for any unusual symptoms and seek medical attention if needed.

Drugs that interact with Tribulus