Cranberry - Diltiazem Interaction
Herbal: Cranberry
Also Known As: Vaccinium macrocarpon, Agrio, American Cranberry, Atoca, Atoka, Bearberry, Canneberge, Cranberry Powder, Da Guo Yue Jie, Da Guo Yue Ju, Kliukva, Kranbeere, Large Cranberry, Man Yue Ju, Man Yue Mei, Mossberry, Pois de Fagne, Pomme des Prés, Cranberry juice
Drug: Diltiazem
Brand names:
Cardizem, Cardizem SR, Diltiaz SR, Cardizem CD, Tiazac, Diltiaz XT, Diltiaz CD, Dilacor, Diltiaz, Cardizem LA, Dilacor XR, Cartia XT, Tiamate, Adizem-SR, Adizem-XL, Angitil SR, Angitil XL, Calcicard CR, Dilcardia SR, Dilzem SR, Dilzem XL, Slozem, Tildiem LA, Tildiem Retard, Viazem XL, Zemtard 120XL, Zemtard 180XL, Zemtard 240XL, Zemtard 300XL
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Apr 20, 2025
Interaction Details
Diltiazem is classified as belonging to the following category: Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, cranberry might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
A case of upper back pain, rhabdomyolysis, and abnormal liver function has been reported for a patient taking atorvastatin, a CYP3A4 substrate, in combination with cranberry juice 16 ounces daily for 2 weeks. Creatinine kinase and liver enzymes normalized within 2 weeks of stopping cranberry juice. Also, animal research suggests that cranberry juice, administered intraduodenally 30 minutes prior to nifedipine, a CYP3A4 substrate, inhibits nifedipine metabolism and increases the area under the concentration-time curve by 1.6-fold compared to control.
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
- Uesawa, Y. and Mohri, K. Effects of cranberry juice on nifedipine pharmacokinetics in rats. J Pharm Pharmacol 2006;58(8):1067-1072.
- Doad GJ, Kabange W. Cranberry juice, atorvastatin and back pain. J Med Assoc Ga 2014;103(1):14.
Cranberry Overview
Cranberries are a type of small, tart berry native to North America. They are a rich source of antioxidants, which are substances that help to protect cells from damage caused by harmful substances called free radicals. They are also a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and other nutrients.
Cranberry dietary supplements contain concentrated cranberry extract or powdered cranberry fruit. They are often used to prevent or treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), as cranberries are thought to have certain compounds that may help to prevent bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract.
Diltiazem Overview
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Diltiazem is used to treat high blood pressure and to control angina (chest pain). Diltiazem is in a class of medications called calcium-channel blockers. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard. It also increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.
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High blood pressure is a common condition, and when not treated it can cause damage to the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and other parts of the body. Damage to these organs may cause heart disease, a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and other problems. In addition to taking medication, making lifestyle changes will also help to control your blood pressure. These changes include eating a diet that is low in fat and salt, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising at least 30 minutes most days, not smoking, and using alcohol in moderation.
Cranberry - More Interactions
Cranberry interacts with 691 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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