Propolis + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine
Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine brand name: Fiorinal.
Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine falls into 3 drug categories that Propolis can interact with; the most serious is rated moderate. Theoretically, high doses of propolis might increase blood levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full interaction reportPropolis and Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine
These two interact in 3 distinct ways. Each one is explained separately below.
Why Are There 3 Interactions?
Propolis interacts with whole categories of medication. Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine falls into 3 of those categories, so it can interact with Propolis in 3 different ways. We’ve listed each one below — your overall risk is driven by the most serious of them (Moderate).
CYTOCHROME P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) SUBSTRATES
1 of 3Why this applies to Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine
Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine falls under CYTOCHROME P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) SUBSTRATES — the group Propolis interacts with.
In vitro research shows that propolis extract can inhibit CYP1A2. However, animal research shows that propolis extract does not significantly affect CYP1A2 activity when administered to rats at doses up to 250 mg/kg. It is postulated that the constituents of propolis that inhibit CYP1A2 in vitro do not have significant effects in vivo due to low bioavailability and hepatic first-pass effect. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Interaction 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.
Here's the piece that matters in your Fiorinal: the caffeine. Caffeine is broken down by a liver enzyme called CYP1A2. In a test tube, propolis can slow that enzyme down. If that happened in your body, caffeine could hang around longer and feel stronger, meaning more jitteriness, a racing heart, trouble sleeping, or feeling wired. The aspirin and butalbital parts aren't really the concern here.
The good news is that this is mostly theory. Lab dishes showed the effect, but animal studies didn't, likely because not much propolis actually reaches the bloodstream. It has never been reported in people. Normal propolis use is unlikely to cause trouble, but if you take high-dose propolis regularly, mention it to your pharmacist or doctor.
- Naramoto K, Kato M, Ichihara K. Effects of an ethanol extract of Brazilian green propolis on human cytochrome P450 enzyme activities in vitro. J Agric Food Chem 2014;62(46):11296-302. PubMed
- Ryu CS, Oh SJ, Oh JM, et al. Inhibition of cytochrome P450 by propolis in human liver microsomes. Toxicol Res 2016;32(3):207-13. PubMed
CYTOCHROME P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) SUBSTRATES
2 of 3Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine also falls under CYTOCHROME P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) SUBSTRATES.
Some in vitro research shows that propolis extract can inhibit CYP3A4; however, other in vitro research shows that propolis has no effect on CYP3A4 activity. Furthermore, animal research shows that propolis extract does not significantly affect CYP3A4 activity when administered to rats at doses up to 250 mg/kg. It is postulated that the constituents of propolis that might in inhibit CYP3A4 in vitro do not have significant effects in vivo due to low bioavailability and hepatic first-pass effect. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Interaction 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.
Here's the gist for Fiorinal (aspirin, butalbital, and caffeine): the butalbital part is broken down by a liver enzyme called CYP3A4. In test-tube studies, some propolis compounds slowed that enzyme down, which could in theory let butalbital build up a bit more than usual. If that happened, you might feel extra drowsy, lightheaded, or foggy from this drug.
That said, I want to keep this in perspective. This is very weak evidence, based only on lab and animal studies, and it has never actually been seen in people. Researchers think those propolis compounds mostly get broken down before they reach the bloodstream. So real-world risk looks low. Still, since butalbital is a sedating medicine, it's worth a quick chat with your pharmacist before pairing them.
- Naramoto K, Kato M, Ichihara K. Effects of an ethanol extract of Brazilian green propolis on human cytochrome P450 enzyme activities in vitro. J Agric Food Chem 2014;62(46):11296-302. PubMed
- Ryu CS, Oh SJ, Oh JM, et al. Inhibition of cytochrome P450 by propolis in human liver microsomes. Toxicol Res 2016;32(3):207-13. PubMed
ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS
3 of 3Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine also falls under ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS.
In vitro research shows that propolis water extract and the propolis constituent, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, can inhibit platelet aggregation. Additionally, evidence from an animal model shows that taking propolis in addition to warfarin decreases INR, suggesting that propolis can decrease the effectiveness of warfarin.
Interaction 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.
The piece of Fiorinal that matters here is the aspirin. Aspirin already thins your blood a bit by making platelets less sticky. In lab studies, propolis (and one of its compounds, called CAPE) seems to do something similar. Put them together and, at least in theory, you could nudge your bleeding risk a little higher than aspirin alone.
In real life that might show up as easier bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or a cut that takes longer to stop. I want to be honest though: this concern comes only from test-tube and animal research, not from human studies, so it's more a caution than a proven problem. Food amounts are unlikely to matter much more than concentrated supplements. If you take Fiorinal regularly and want to add propolis, just run it by your pharmacist or doctor first.
- Chen, T. G., Lee, J. J., Lin, K. H., Shen, C. H., Chou, D. S., and Sheu, J. R. Antiplatelet activity of caffeic acid phenethyl ester is mediated through a cyclic GMP-dependent pathway in human platelets. Chin J Physiol 6-30-2007;50(3):121-126.
- Akbay E, Özenirler Ç, Çelemli ÖG, Durukan AB, Onur MA, Sorkun K. Effects of propolis on warfarin efficacy. Kardiochir Torakochirurgia Pol. 2017;14(1):43-46. PubMed
- Zhang YX, Yang TT, Xia L, Zhang WF, Wang JF, Wu YP. Inhibitory Effect of Propolis on Platelet Aggregation In Vitro. J Healthc Eng. 2017;2017:3050895. PubMed
What These Ratings Mean
Every interaction above is graded three ways — here’s the key to each label.
Clinically significant. Avoid the combination, or use only under close professional supervision.
Usually worth avoiding or managing — may need monitoring, a dose change, or timing apart.
Generally not serious. Be aware of it and mention it to your pharmacist.
- LikelyWell-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction.
- 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.
- 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.
- UnlikelyInteraction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.
- AHigh-quality meta-analysis (quantitative systematic review).
- BCase-control study.
- CConsensus.
- DAnecdotal evidence.
These ratings are for information only. Never start, stop, or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
Propolis Also Interacts With Other Medications
Propolis has 920 moderate known drug interactions in our database — the Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine one above is among them. If you take anything else, check it against the full list below.
Check Another of Your Medications Against Propolis
We haven’t checked that one against Propolis yet — ask our pharmacists directly.
Covers the 2,830 medications we’ve checked against Propolis. Pick one to open its full report.
See Every Supplement That Interacts With Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine
This page covers Propolis only. If you take other supplements — a multivitamin, a sleep aid, something for joints — the Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine page lists 347 supplements it has a documented interaction with, worst first, each one explained.
The most serious there right now: Activated Charcoal (major), Asarabacca (major), Beer (major), Danshen (major) and Ephedra (major).
By severity: 13 major · 285 moderate · 49 minor.
From our pharmacist’s overview on the Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine page
“The aspirin inside Fiorinal (aspirin, butalbital, caffeine) is the reason this list deserves careful reading rather than a quick skim. More than 200 of the supplements and herbs on file can thin the blood further and raise bleeding risk on top of aspirin's own antiplatelet effect, and even ordinary alcohol, beer and wine included, carr…”
Reviewed by 2 · Jul 18, 2026
Taking Propolis as Part of a Dietary Supplement Product? Check It for Interactions
We hold 723 real supplement products containing Propolis, each one broken down to its full ingredient list — and combination products often carry several ingredients besides Propolis. Your product may carry other ingredients that interact with Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine too, on top of Propolis — and those would not show on this page. Find your product and we’ll check every ingredient on its label:
Where Propolis and Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine Sit Against Everything Else
Out of every supplement and medication people look up on HelloPharmacist, here is where these two land this week — and which way each has been moving.
#235 of 1,452 supplements looked up here in the last 7 days
#592 of 2,830 medications looked up here in the last 7 days
Position among everything looked up on this site, not a measure of how commonly either one is used or how important it is. A supplement can climb this list because of a news story. It counts every request to the page, automated ones included, and nothing here identifies anyone.
About Propolis
What is Propolis?
- Cold sores and herpes lesions (topical)
- Sore throat and mouth sores
- Wound and skin healing
- Immune support
- Oral and gum health
Propolis is a natural, resin-like substance made by bees that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in lab studies. Early research suggests it may help with cold sores, mouth sores, and minor wounds, but high-quality evidence is limited for most uses. It is generally well tolerated, but allergic reactions can occur, especially in people allergic to bee products.
About Aspirin, Butalbital, and Caffeine
What Is Aspirin, Butalbital, and Caffeine Used For?
Brand name: Fiorinal
Butalbital, aspirin, and caffeine capsules are used to relieve the symptom complex of tension headache — also called muscle contraction headache. This includes headache pain, psychic tension, and muscle tightness in the head, neck, and shoulders.
This medicine is intended for short-term use. Evidence supporting its safety and effectiveness for repeated or long-term use in recurrent headaches is not available, and extended use is not recommended because butalbital can be habit-forming.
Other Drugs & Propolis
Browse every other medication we’ve checked against Propolis — both the ones with a known interaction and the ones without. Select any drug for the full detail.
No drugs match “”.
920 interactions
- Diclofenac Sodium ›
- Diltiazem ›
- Theophylline ›
- Nifedipine ›
- Ibuprofen ›
- Aspirin ›
- Hydrocortisone ›
- Naproxen ›
- Erythromycin ›
- Estradiol ›
- Minocycline ›
- Propranolol ›
- Lidocaine ›
- Norethindrone ›
- Testosterone ›
- Verapamil ›
- Levonorgestrel ›
- Prednisone ›
- Quinidine ›
- Cyclosporine ›
- Dexamethasone ›
- Glyburide ›
- Triazolam ›
- Zopiclone ›
- Colchicine ›
- Fentanyl ›
- Flurbiprofen ›
- Oxybutynin ›
- Oxycodone ›
- Phenytoin ›
- Prednisolone ›
- Tacrolimus ›
- Temazepam ›
- Budesonide ›
- Carbamazepine ›
- Clindamycin ›
- Dextromethorphan ›
- Diclofenac Potassium ›
- Dipyridamole ›
- Doxorubicin ›
- Fluticasone ›
- Formoterol ›
- Indomethacin ›
- Miconazole ›
- Morphine Sulfate ›
- Trimipramine ›
- Acetaminophen ›
- Amphetamine ›
- Buprenorphine ›
- Conjugated Estrogens ›
- Diazepam ›
- Everolimus ›
- Ivabradine ›
- Ketoprofen ›
- Lofepramine ›
- Medroxyprogesterone ›
- Medroxyprogesterone Acetate ›
- Meloxicam ›
- Nortriptyline ›
- Propoxyphene ›
Showing 60 of 920 moderate interactions — see all 920 on the Propolis page.
No interaction 1,909 drugs checked — show the list
We also checked Propolis against these medications and found no known interaction in our sources. Open any page to confirm.
- Levothyroxine ›
- Methylphenidate ›
- Ivermectin ›
- Rosuvastatin ›
- Escitalopram ›
- Tirzepatide ›
- Docusate ›
- Sumatriptan ›
- Valacyclovir ›
- Isotretinoin ›
- Hydroxyurea ›
- Semaglutide ›
- Metformin ›
- Methotrexate ›
- Lisinopril ›
- Amoxicillin ›
- Bupropion ›
- Doxycycline ›
- Pregabalin ›
- Azithromycin ›
- Levothyroxine, Liothyronine ›
- Lamotrigine ›
- Acyclovir ›
- Gabapentin ›
- Methylene Blue ›
- Ciprofloxacin ›
- Candesartan Cilexetil ›
- Amoxicillin, Clavulanate Potassium ›
- Cephalexin ›
- Cyclopentolate ›
- Ezetimibe ›
- Carbidopa, Levodopa ›
- Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan, Doxylamine ›
- Roxithromycin ›
- Levetiracetam ›
- Insulin Degludec, Liraglutide ›
- Mannitol ›
- Thyroid Hormone ›
- Levodopa ›
- Spironolactone ›
- Mitomycin ›
- Canagliflozin, Metformin ›
- Alginic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide ›
- Levothyroxine Sodium ›
- Dexmethylphenidate ›
- Atenolol ›
- Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) ›
- Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide, Rifampin ›
- Minoxidil ›
- Phentermine, Topiramate ›
- Acarbose ›
- Cefaclor ›
- Daptomycin ›
- Amobarbital, Ephedrine Sulfate ›
- Pegunigalsidase Alfa-iwxj ›
- Hydroxychloroquine ›
- Calcium Oxybate, Magnesium Oxybate, Potassium Oxybate, Sodium Oxybate ›
- Flutemetamol F-18 ›
- Avatrombopag Maleate ›
- Digoxin ›
Showing the 60 most looked-up of 1,909 medications checked with no known interaction — see the full Propolis list.
Sources & How We Checked
Interaction details are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database. The medication overview comes from MedlinePlus.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference for vitamins, herbs and supplements — the basis for our interaction data.
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine — NIH consumer drug information, used for the medication overviews.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — Official supplement product labels.
Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.
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
Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine Is Linked to Lower Levels of 4 Nutrients
Natural Medicines records Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine as a medicine that can lower these. This is not an interaction with Propolis — it is a separate effect of the medicine, and it is a reason some people are advised to supplement rather than to avoid one:
Read the full Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine nutrient depletion report ›
Depletion records come from the licensed Natural Medicines database. Do not start a supplement on the strength of this page — ask your pharmacist or doctor whether it applies to you.
Taking Propolis and Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine Together: Common Questions
Can you take Propolis with Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine?
Why are there 3 interactions listed for Propolis and Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine?
How serious is the Propolis and Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine interaction?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
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This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.