Neem - Mevacor (Lovastatin) Interaction
Herbal: Neem
Also Known As: Azadirachta indica, Arishta, Arishtha, Bead Tree, Holy Tree, Huile de Neem, Indian Lilac, Indian Neem, Lilas des Indes, Lilas de Perse, Margosa, Margosa Tree, Margousier, Margousier à Feuilles de Frêne, Margousier d'Inde, Neem Oil, Neem Tree, Nim, Nimb, Nimba, Persian Lilac
Drug: Lovastatin
Brand names:
Mevacor, Altocor
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jul 22, 2023
Interaction Details
Lovastatin is classified as belonging to the following category: Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, neem leaf extract might increase the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research shows that neem leaf extract inhibits CYP3A4 enzymes. So far, this reaction has not been reported in humans.
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
- Amaeze O, Marques ES, Wei W, et al. Evaluation of Nigerian Medicinal Plants Extract on Human P-glycoprotein and Cytochrome P450 Enzyme Induction: Implications for Herb-drug Interaction. Curr Drug Metab. 2021;22(14):1103-1113.
Neem Overview
Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a tree native to India and is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The leaves, seeds, and bark of the neem tree are often used in herbal remedies and are thought to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Neem is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including skin conditions, digestive disorders, respiratory problems, and fever. It is also used as a natural remedy for anxiety, stress, and other ailments. Additionally, it has been used in aromatherapy to improve mood and reduce stress.
The leaves of the tree are used as a natural pesticide and are believed to be effective at controlling a variety of pests, including insects, nematodes, and fungi. It is approved for use as a pesticide in the United States by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Lovastatin Overview
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Lovastatin is used together with diet, weight-loss, and exercise to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke and to decrease the chance that heart surgery will be needed in people who have heart disease or who are at risk of developing heart disease. Lovastatin is also used to decrease the amount of cholesterol (a fat-like substance) and other fatty substances in the blood. Lovastatin is in a class of medications called HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (statins). It works by slowing the production of cholesterol in the body to decrease the amount of cholesterol that may build up on the walls of the arteries and block blood flow to the heart, brain, and other parts of the body.
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Accumulation of cholesterol and fats along the walls of your arteries (a process known as atherosclerosis) decreases blood flow and, therefore, the oxygen supply to your heart, brain, and other parts of your body. Lowering your blood level of cholesterol and fats with lovastatin may help prevent heart disease, angina (chest pain), strokes, and heart attacks.
Neem - More Interactions
Neem interacts with 901 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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