Ascophyllum Nodosum - Xeljanz (Tofacitinib) Interaction
Herbal: Ascophyllum Nodosum
Also Known As: Bladderwrack, Brown Marine Algae, Brown seaweed, Egg Wrack, Hebridean Seaweed, ID-alG, Irish Brown Seaweed, Kelp, Knotted Wrack, Norwegian Kelp, Rockweed, Tasco
Drug: Tofacitinib
Brand names:
Xeljanz, Xeljanz XR
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 25, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Tofacitinib and Ascophyllum Nodosum. 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.
Ascophyllum Nodosum Overview
Ascophyllum nodosum is a species of brown seaweed that inhabits the shorelines of various regions including the Canadian Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, Europe, the northeastern United States, and the eastern coast of Canada. In many areas, this seaweed has become a protected species in an effort to prevent overharvesting. Ascophyllum nodosum boasts a rich nutrient profile, containing polysaccharides like fucoidans and laminarin, and an array of vitamins and minerals, including iodine. Furthermore, this seaweed is notable for carrying phlorotannins, a substance found exclusively in brown seaweed, as well as a variety of fatty acids. These include oleic acid, saturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids of both the omega-3 and omega-6 varieties.
Tofacitinib Overview
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Tofacitinib is used alone or with other medications to treat rheumatoid arthritis (condition in which the body attacks its own joints causing pain, swelling, and loss of function) in adults who are unable to take or did not respond to one or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor medication(s). It is also used to treat psoriatic arthritis (a condition that causes joint pain and swelling and scales on the skin) in adults who are unable to take or did not respond to or tolerate one or more TNF inhibitor medication(s). Tofacitinib is used to treat ulcerative colitis (a condition which causes swelling and sores in the lining of the colon [large intestine] and rectum) in adults who are unable to take or who did not respond to one or more TNF inhibitor medication(s). It is also used to treat polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (PJIA; a type of childhood arthritis that affects five or more joints during the first six months of the condition, causing pain, swelling, and loss of function) in children 2 years and older who are unable to take or who did not respond to one or more TNF inhibitor medication(s). Tofacitinib is in a class of medications called Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. It works by decreasing the activity of the immune system.
Ascophyllum Nodosum - More Interactions
Ascophyllum Nodosum interacts with 22 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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