Hoodia - Pepto-Bismol (Bismuth Subsalicylate (OTC drug)) Interaction
Herbal: Hoodia
Also Known As: Hoodia gordonii, Cactus, Cactus Hoodia, Hoodia Gordonii Cactus, Hoodia P57, Kalahari Cactus, Kalahari Diet, P57, Xhoba
Drug: Bismuth Subsalicylate (OTC drug)
Brand names:
Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate Anti-Diarrheal Caplets (U.S.), Maalox Total Stomach Relief, Maalox Multi Action, Kaopectate Liquid (U.S.), Kaopectate Extra Strength Liquid (U.S.)
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Mar 23, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Bismuth Subsalicylate (OTC drug) and Hoodia. 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.
Hoodia Overview
Hoodia is a cactus-type plant native to the Kalahari Desert in Africa. Medicinally, it is used as an appetite suppressant to aid in weight loss. Dietary supplements containing hoodia are often standardized for their P57 content, a component of hoodia extract, which is thought to be primarily responsible for its effects. Hoodia is also though to contain additional constituents, such as gordonoside F, which may also have an appetite-suppressant effect.
Bismuth Subsalicylate (OTC drug) Overview
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Bismuth subsalicylate is used to treat diarrhea, heartburn, and upset stomach in adults and children 12 years of age and older. Bismuth subsalicylate is in a class of medications called antidiarrheal agents. It works by decreasing the flow of fluids and electrolytes into the bowel, reduces inflammation within the intestine, and may kill the organisms that can cause diarrhea.
Hoodia - More Interactions
Hoodia interacts with 257 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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