Alder Buckthorn - Sinemet (Carbidopa, Levodopa) Interaction
Herbal: Alder Buckthorn
Also Known As: Frangula alnus, Rhamnus frangula, Alder Dogwood, Arraclán, Arrow Wood, Aulne Noir, Black Dogwood, Bois Noir, Bourdaine, Buckthorn, Dog Wood, Frángula, Frangula, Frangule, Glossy Buckthorn, Nerprun Bourdaine, Nerprun Noir
Drug: Carbidopa, Levodopa
Brand names:
Sinemet CR, Sinemet, Rytary, Dhivy
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jun 15, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Carbidopa, Levodopa and Alder Buckthorn. 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.
Alder Buckthorn Overview
Alder buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula) is an invasive shrub native to Europe and North America. Its bark has been traditionally used in medicine due to its cathartic effects in the large intestine, attributed to its anthraglycoside content. It is generally used to help alleviate constipation. However, chronic use of alder buckthorn has been linked to gastrointestinal epithelial cell damage, pigmentation of the colonic mucosa (pseudomelanosis coli), and a potential risk of colorectal cancer. If used as a dietary supplement, the duration of use for alder buckthorn should be limited to no more than a few days altogether, due to its potential adverse effects on gastrointestinal health with prolonged use. In 1993, the FDA removed its Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status due to insufficient safety data, particularly regarding prolonged use of its anthraquinone laxatives, reinforcing the need for caution in its medicinal use.
Carbidopa, Levodopa Overview
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The combination of levodopa and carbidopa is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's-like symptoms that may develop after encephalitis (swelling of the brain) or injury to the nervous system caused by carbon monoxide poisoning or manganese poisoning. Parkinson's symptoms, including tremors (shaking), stiffness, and slowness of movement, are caused by a lack of dopamine, a natural substance usually found in the brain. Levodopa is in a class of medications called central nervous system agents. It works by being converted to dopamine in the brain. Carbidopa is in a class of medications called decarboxylase inhibitors. It works by preventing levodopa from being broken down before it reaches the brain. This allows for a lower dose of levodopa, which causes less nausea and vomiting.
Alder Buckthorn - More Interactions
Alder Buckthorn interacts with 122 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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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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