Cassava - Desiccated Thyroid Extract Interaction
Herbal: Cassava
Also Known As: Manihot esculenta, Brazilian Arrowroot, Cassave, Kassava, Kassave, Mandioca, Manioc, Manioc Tapioca, Manioca, Maniok, Maniokki, Tapioca, Tapioca Plant, Yuca
Drug: Desiccated Thyroid Extract
Brand names:
Westhroid, WP Thyroid
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 04, 2025
Interaction Details
Desiccated Thyroid Extract is classified as belonging to the following category: Thyroid Hormone
Evidence from human and animal research suggests that cassava root has marked antithyroid effects, particularly if poorly processed or if consumed as part of a protein-deficient diet. Also, clinical research shows that consuming boiled cassava leaves 200 grams twice daily for 9 days significantly reduces levels of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine and thyroxine. Theoretically, cassava may alter thyroid function, reduce thyroid hormone levels, and interfere with thyroid hormone-replacement therapy.
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
- Akindahunsi AA, Grissom FE, Adewusi SR, et al. Parameters of thyroid function in the endemic goitre of Akungba and Oke-Agbe villages of Akoko area of southwestern Nigeria. Afr J Med Med Sci 1998;27(3-4):239-42.
- Osman BA, Ng ML, Bakar AA, Khalid BA. The effect of cassava leave intake on thyroid hormone and urinary iodine. East Afr Med J 1993;70(5):314-5.
- Gaitan E, Cooksey RC, Legan J, et al. Antithyroid effects in vivo and in vitro of babassu and mandioca: a staple food in goiter areas of Brazil. Eur J Endocrinol 1994;131(2):138-44.
- Geelhoed GW. Metabolic maladaptation: individual and social consequences of medical intervention in correcting endemic hypothyroidism. Nutrition 1999;15(11-12):908-32.
- Biassoni P, Ravera G, Bertocchi J, et al. Influence of dietary habits on thyroid status of a nomadic people, the Bororo shepherds, roaming a central African region affected by severe iodine deficiency. Eur J Endocrinol 1998;138(6):681-5.
- Delange F. The disorders induced by iodine deficiency. Thyroid 1994;4(1):107-28.
- Delange F. [The role of goitrogenic factors distinct from iodine deficiency in the etiology of goiter]. Ann Endocrinol (Paris) 1988;49(4-5):302-5.
Cassava Overview
Cassava, also known as yuca, is a starchy root vegetable and a dietary mainstay in numerous tropical and developing nations. Despite its nutritional significance, cassava is not without concern, as it contains potentially harmful cyanogenic glycosides. Ongoing research is directed towards the development of genetically modified variants with reduced toxicity, aiming to mitigate health-related concers associated with its consumption.
In addition to its role as a dietary staple, cassava supplements are sometimes marketed as a fertility aid, specifically highlighting an increased probability of conceiving twins. This claim is grounded in the notion that select cassava supplements can induce hyper-ovulation without the adverse effects commonly associated with prescription fertility medications. It is pertinent to note, however, that this assertion currently lacks any substantiation in studies.
Beyond its purported use for fertility, available evidence suggests a potential reduction in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes with an increased intake of cassava flour in the diet.
Cassava - More Interactions
Cassava interacts with 16 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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