Northern Prickly Ash - Sinemet (Carbidopa, Levodopa) Interaction
Herbal: Northern Prickly Ash
Also Known As: Zanthoxylum americanum, Angelica Tree, Clavalier, Pepper Wood, Prickly Ash, Toothache Bark, Xanthoxylum, Yellow Wood, Zanthoxylum, Toothache tree
Drug: Carbidopa, Levodopa
Brand names:
Sinemet CR, Sinemet, Rytary, Dhivy
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jun 22, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Carbidopa, Levodopa and Northern Prickly Ash. 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.
Northern Prickly Ash Overview
Northern Prickly Ash (Zanthoxylum americanum) is a deciduous shrub native to North America. The leaves and twigs of the plant have a distinct, spicy aroma when crushed. In the summer, small, greenish-white flowers appear, followed by small, red berries in the fall.
The bark, leaves, and berries of Northern Prickly Ash have been used in traditional medicine as a treatment for toothache (northern prickly ash is sometimes referred to as the 'toothache tree') and rheumatism, and the berries have been used to treat digestive issues. The plant is also purported to have other anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Carbidopa, Levodopa Overview
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The combination of levodopa and carbidopa is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's-like symptoms that may develop after encephalitis (swelling of the brain) or injury to the nervous system caused by carbon monoxide poisoning or manganese poisoning. Parkinson's symptoms, including tremors (shaking), stiffness, and slowness of movement, are caused by a lack of dopamine, a natural substance usually found in the brain. Levodopa is in a class of medications called central nervous system agents. It works by being converted to dopamine in the brain. Carbidopa is in a class of medications called decarboxylase inhibitors. It works by preventing levodopa from being broken down before it reaches the brain. This allows for a lower dose of levodopa, which causes less nausea and vomiting.
Northern Prickly Ash - More Interactions
Northern Prickly Ash interacts with 36 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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