Guggul - Aygestin (Norethindrone) Interaction
Herbal: Guggul
Also Known As: Commiphora wightii, Devadhupa, Gomme Guggul, Guggal, Guggul Gum, Guggul Gum Resin, Guggul Lipids, Guggulipid, Guggulu, Guggulu Suddha, Guglipid, Gugulipid, Gum Guggal, Gum Guggulu, Indian Bdellium, Indian Bdellium-Tree, Indian Guggulipids, Koushika, Mukul Myrrh Tree, Palank
Drug: Norethindrone
Brand names:
Aygestin, Norlutin, Nor-QD, Micronor, Norlutate, Camila, Errin, Jolivette, Nora-BE
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 25, 2025
Interaction Details
Norethindrone is classified as belonging to the following category: Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, guggul might reduce the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research shows that guggul constituents known as guggulsterones can induce CYP3A4.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
ProbableInteraction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
References
- Brobst DE, Ding X, Creech KL, et al. Guggulsterone activates multiple nuclear receptors and induces CYP3A gene expression through the pregnane X receptor. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2004;310:528-35.
Guggul Overview
Guggal, also known as Commiphora mukul or Indian bdellium, is a species of tree native to India, Pakistan, and parts of the Middle East. It is known for producing a gum resin that has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine.
Guggul is used for a variety of purposes, including for the treatment of joint pain, obesity, and high cholesterol. Many guggal preparations are often standardized to contain 2.5% to 5% guggulsterone.
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.
Guggul - More Interactions
Guggul interacts with 735 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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