Bitter Yam - Lanoxin (Digoxin) Interaction
Herbal: Bitter Yam
Also Known As: Dioscorea dumetorum, African Bitter Yam, Cluster Yam, Esuri Yam, Esuru, Igname Amère, Igname Sauvage, Igname Trifoliolée, Ikamba, Inhame-bravo, Name Amargo, Name de Tres Hojas, Ñame Amargo, Ono, Three-leaved Yam, Trifoliate Yam
Drug: Digoxin
Brand names:
Lanoxicaps, Lanoxin, Digitek
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jun 15, 2025
Interaction Details
Digoxin is classified as belonging to the following category: Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Theoretically, bitter yam might increase the risk of adverse effects and toxicity when taken with digoxin.
A phytochemical screen of bitter yam extract shows that it contains cardiac glycosides, although it is unclear if these chemicals are present in clinically relevant concentrations.
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
- Nimenibo-Uadia R. Control of hyperlipidaemia, hypercholesterolaemia and hyperketonaemia by aqueous extract of Dioscorea dumetorum tuber. Trop J Pharm Res 2003;2:183-9. Available at: http://www.bioline.org.br/request?pr03009.
Bitter Yam Overview
Bitter yam, scientifically known as Dioscorea polygonoides, is a notable plant deeply rooted in traditional medicinal practices. It has gained attention due to its potential health benefits, particularly in the realms of blood sugar regulation and digestive health. These properties are attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds within the yam, which are believed to interact with various physiological processes in the body. As part of traditional medicine systems, bitter yam has been harnessed for its potential to address issues related to blood sugar levels and digestion, making it a subject of interest for further exploration and research.
Digoxin Overview
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Digoxin is used to treat heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). It helps the heart work better and it helps control your heart rate.
Bitter Yam - More Interactions
Bitter Yam interacts with 1 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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