Fenugreek - Cytomel (Liothyronine) Interaction
Herbal: Fenugreek
Also Known As: Trigonella foenum-graecum, Alholva, Bird's Foot, Chandrika, Fenogreco, Fenugrec, Foenugreek, Greek Clover, Greek Hay, Hu Lu Ba, Methi, Methika, Medhika, Senegrain, Senegre, Trigonella, Trigonelle
Drug: Liothyronine
Brand names:
Cytomel
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jun 22, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Liothyronine and Fenugreek. 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.
Pharmacist Analysis
Fenugreek is generally considered relatively safe in regard to potential drug interactions.
Nevertheless, interactions are possible between fenugreek and:
- 'Blood-thinning' drugs
- Drugs that lower blood pressure
- Drugs that low blood sugar
Fenugreek contains some components that can prevent blood from clotting. However, there is not enough research to confirm whether the amount of these components present in common fenugreek products can have a clinically significant effect.
Fenugreek may also have an additive effect with blood sugar-lowering medication and blood pressure-lowering medication.
All of these potential interactions are documented individually on our specific drug-herbal interaction pages.
Is Fenugreek Safe With Cytomel?
There is no known interaction between fenugreek and Cytomel, or any thyroid hormone for that matter, as fenugreek is not known to affect thyroid hormone levels.
However, and this is important to note, thyroid medications, such as Cytomel, should ideally be taken on an empty stomach, 30-60 minutes before food and other medications to avoid decreases in absorption.
So, even though fenugreek is not known to interact with thyroid medications, the administration of both should still be separated to allow for optimal absorption.
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDFenugreek Overview
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is a plant native to the Mediterranean region and western Asia. The seeds have a nutty, slightly bitter taste and are commonly used in different types of cuisine. The leaves, which are known as "methi," are used in cooking as well.
In addition to its use as a spice and herb, fenugreek has a long history of use in traditional medicine. Some studies have suggested that fenugreek may have potential health benefits, including the ability to lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce inflammation. It may also have potential benefits for women who are breastfeeding, as it is thought to increase milk production and improve the quality of breast milk.
Liothyronine Overview
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Liothyronine is used to treat hypothyroidism (a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone). Liothyronine is also used to treat a goiter (an enlarged thyroid gland) and to test for hyperthyroidism (a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone). Liothyronine is in a class of medications called thyroid agents. It works by supplying the thyroid hormones normally produced by the body.
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Currently, there is not enough evidence from clinical studies to support the use of liothyronine, alone or in combination with other medications, as the first choice of therapy to treat hypothyroidism.
Fenugreek - More Interactions
Fenugreek interacts with 384 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.
Ask A Pharmacist About Your Herbal Questions!
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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