Anise - Versed (Midazolam) Interaction
Herbal: Anise
Also Known As: Pimpinella anisum, Anis, Anís, Anis Vert, Aniseed, Anise Essential Oil, Anise Oil, Anisi Fructus, Graine d'Anis Vert, Green Anise, Huile Essentielle d'Anis, Phytoestrogen, Phyto-Œstrogène, Pinella, Semen Anisi, Shatpushpa, Sweet Cumin
Drug: Midazolam
Brand names:
Versed, Seizalam, Nayzilam
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 25, 2025
Interaction Details
Midazolam is classified as belonging to the following category: Midazolam (Versed)
Theoretically, anise oil might increase the effects and adverse effects of midazolam.
Animal research shows that taking anise oil with midazolam increases the motor impairment associated with midazolam, possibly by inhibiting its breakdown by cytochrome P450 3A4. Whether this interaction occurs in humans is unclear.
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
- Samojlik I, Mijatovic V, Petkovic S, et al. The influence of essential oil of aniseed (Pimpinella anisum, L.) on drug effects on the central nervous system. Fitoterapia 2012;83:1466-73.
Anise Overview
Anise, also known as Pimpinella anisum, is an herb native to the eastern Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia. The seeds are known for their mildly sweet, licorice-like flavor. The main compound in anise responsible for the licorice-like taste and odor is anethole.
Anise seeds are often used in baking and liquors. It is especially popular during the winter holiday season. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine and has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive problems, respiratory disorders, and insomnia. Anise is also used as a natural remedy for cough, sore throat, and other respiratory problems.
Midazolam Overview
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Midazolam is given to children before medical procedures or before anesthesia for surgery to cause drowsiness, relieve anxiety, and prevent any memory of the event. Midazolam is in a class of medications called benzodiazepines. It works by slowing activity in the brain to allow relaxation and sleep.
Anise - More Interactions
Anise interacts with 243 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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