Schisandra - Bactrim (Sulfamethoxazole, Trimethoprim) Interaction
Herbal: Schisandra
Also Known As: Schisandra chinensis, Bac Ngu Vi Tu, Baie de Schisandra, Bei Wu Wei Zi, Beiwuweizi, Chinese Mongolavine, Chinese Schizandra, Chinesischer Limonenbaum, Chosen-Gomischi, Five-Flavor-Fruit, Fructus Schisandrae, Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis, Fruit aux Cinq Saveurs
Drug: Sulfamethoxazole, Trimethoprim
Brand names:
Bactrim, Bactrim DS, Cotrim DS, Septra, Septra DS, Trimeth Sulfa DS, Cotrim, SMZ TMP, SMZ TMP 400/80, Cotrimix, Sulfatrim, SMZ TMP 800/160, SMZ TMP DS, Bactrim IV, Septra IV
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 04, 2025
Interaction Details
Sulfamethoxazole, Trimethoprim is classified as belonging to the following category: Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates
Theoretically, schisandra might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C9 substrates.
In vitro and animal research suggests that schisandra induces CYP2C9 enzymes. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
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
References
- Mu Y, Zhang J, Zhang S, et al. Traditional Chinese medicines Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra chinensis Baill) and Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch) activate pregnane X receptor and increase warfarin clearance in rats. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2006;316:1369-77.
Schisandra Overview
Schisandra is a plant that is native to parts of Asia, and is known for its small, red berries. These berries are often dried and sold as a dietary supplement to be used as a natural remedy for a wide range of health conditions, including fatigue, anxiety, and respiratory problems. Some people also use schisandra to improve sleep quality and reduce the symptoms of menopause. It is considered an 'adaptogen', which is believed to help the body adapt to stress.
Schisandra - More Interactions
Schisandra interacts with 779 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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