Atractylodes - Aygestin (Norethindrone) Interaction
Herbal: Atractylodes
Also Known As: Atractylodes lancea, AMK, ATR, Atractylenolide, Bai Zhu, Byaki-Jutsu, Cang Zhu, Chang Zhe, Jutsu, Khod Kha Mao, Paekch'ul, So-Jutsu
Drug: Norethindrone
Brand names:
Aygestin, Norlutin, Nor-QD, Micronor, Norlutate, Camila, Errin, Jolivette, Nora-BE
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jun 22, 2025
Interaction Details
Norethindrone is classified as belonging to the following category: Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, atractylodes might increase the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.
In animals, atractylodes administered at high doses has been shown to inhibit CYP3A1 activity, which is a homolog to the human CYP3A4 enzyme. This effect has not been shown 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
- Muhamad N, Plengsuriyakarn T, Na-Bangchang K. Atractylodes lancea for cholangiocarcinoma: Modulatory effects on CYP1A2 and CYP3A1 and pharmacokinetics in rats and biodistribution in mice. PLoS One 2022;17(11):e0277614.
Atractylodes Overview
Atractylodes is a genus of flowering plants native to eastern Asia, with its roots being used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), traditional Japanese medicine (Kampo), and traditional Thai medicine. It is found in formulations like ninjin-yoei-to and shenling baizhu san. Pharmacokinetic studies show that atractylodin, a major bioactive compound, is absorbed rapidly after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 0.5-2 hours. The root contains sesquiterpenoids, sterols, and essential oils, with constituents like atractylenolides and atractylon. These compounds contribute to various purported pharmacological effects, including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and gastrointestinal effects, but more research is needed for a better understanding of its overall effectiveness in these areas.
Norethindrone Overview
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Norethindrone is used to treat endometriosis (a condition in which the type of tissue that lines the uterus [womb] grows in other areas of the body and causes pain, heavy or irregular menstruation [periods], and other symptoms). Norethindrone is also used to treat abnormal periods or bleeding and to bring on a normal menstrual cycle in women who menstruated normally in the past but have not menstruated for at least 3 months and who are not pregnant or experiencing menopause (change of life; the end of monthly menstrual periods). Norethindrone is in a class of medications called progestins. It works by stopping the lining of the uterus from growing and by causing the uterus to produce certain hormones.
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Norethindrone is also used to prevent pregnancy. Norethindrone is sold under different brand names and is taken in smaller amounts when it used to prevent pregnancy. This monograph does not include information on the use of norethindrone to prevent pregnancy. If you are taking norethindrone to prevent pregnancy, read the monograph entitled Progestin-Only (norethindrone) Oral Contraceptives.
Atractylodes - More Interactions
Atractylodes interacts with 778 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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