Herb & supplement monograph

Apple Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Apple interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Apple is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Apple is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Apple Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, Apple drug interactions can be clinically significant for people taking certain medications, mainly because apple juice can sharply lower the absorption of some drugs. Several interactions are rated major and are backed by well-controlled human studies, and none of the listed interactions are minor.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The best-documented concern involves drugs absorbed through a gut transporter that apple juice blocks. Human studies show apple juice can cut blood levels of fexofenadine (Allegra) by up to 78% and atenolol by more than half, and it reduced levels of aliskiren by about 63%, which could make these medicines much less effective. There is also some human evidence that apple juice may nudge blood pressure and blood sugar upward, which could matter for people whose blood pressure or diabetes medicines are closely adjusted. A single case report suggests apple juice may also lower lithium levels.

What the rest of the list means

Although the overall list of interacting medications is long, most entries trace back to that one absorption mechanism rather than hundreds of separate proven problems. The strongest effects were seen with larger amounts of apple juice, and small servings did not meaningfully change fexofenadine levels, so eating an apple is not the same as drinking large volumes of juice with a dose.

Check your medications against Apple

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Apple interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Apple

300 medications have a known interaction with Apple, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

47 major interactions. These combinations can be clinically significant — best avoided, or used only with close professional supervision. Always check with your pharmacist before combining them with Apple.

2,830 drugs
AtorvastatinAtorvaliq
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Atorvastatin interaction Atorvastatin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Atorvastatin CalciumLipitor
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Atorvastatin Calcium interaction Atorvastatin Calcium drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
BosentanTracleer
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Bosentan interaction Bosentan drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
BrincidofovirTembexa
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Brincidofovir interaction
CeliprololCelicard
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Celiprolol interaction
Cerivastatin SodiumBaycol
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Cerivastatin Sodium interaction
CinoxacinCinobac
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Cinoxacin interaction
CiprofloxacinCiloxan, Cipro, Cipro IV, Cipro XR, Ciprobay, Otiprio
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Ciprofloxacin interaction Ciprofloxacin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Ciprofloxacin, HydrocortisoneCipro HC Otic
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Ciprofloxacin, Hydrocortisone interaction
ClinafloxacinClinafloxacin
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Clinafloxacin interaction
EnoxacinPenetrex
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Enoxacin interaction
EtoposideEtopophos, VePesid, VP16
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Etoposide interaction Etoposide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Ezetimibe, AtorvastatinLiptruzet
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Ezetimibe, Atorvastatin interaction
FexofenadineAllegra
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Fexofenadine interaction Fexofenadine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Fexofenadine, PseudoephedrineAllegra D
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Fexofenadine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
FluvastatinLescol, Lescol XL
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Fluvastatin interaction Fluvastatin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
GatifloxacinTequin, Tequin Injection
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Gatifloxacin interaction
GemifloxacinFactive
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Gemifloxacin interaction Gemifloxacin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
GlyburideAlbert Glyburide, Diabeta, Glycron, Glynase, Glynase PresTab, Micronase +1 more
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Glyburide interaction Glyburide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Glyburide, MetforminGlucovance
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Glyburide, Metformin interaction
GrepafloxacinRaxar
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Grepafloxacin interaction
IrinotecanCamptosar, Onivyde
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Irinotecan interaction Irinotecan drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Irinotecan Hydrochloride
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Irinotecan Hydrochloride interaction Irinotecan Hydrochloride drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide, RifampinRifater
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide, Rifampin interaction
Isoniazid, RifampinRifamate
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Isoniazid, Rifampin interaction
LevofloxacinLeva-pak, Levaquin, Levaquin Injection
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Levofloxacin interaction Levofloxacin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Levofloxacin (ophthalmic)Levofloxacin
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Levofloxacin (ophthalmic) interaction Levofloxacin (ophthalmic) drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
LomefloxacinMaxaquin
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Lomefloxacin interaction
LovastatinAltocor, Mevacor
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Lovastatin interaction Lovastatin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
MethotrexateOtrexup, Rasuvo, Reditrex, Rheumatrex
Major Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.

Read the full Apple + Methotrexate interaction Methotrexate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction 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.
  • Possible. 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
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Apple combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Apple affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Apple is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 7 drug categories Apple interacts with
Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp)Aliskiren (tekturna, Rasilez)Antidiabetes DrugsAntihypertensive DrugsAtenolol (tenormin)Fexofenadine (allegra)Lithium
Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide Substrates (Oatp)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of OATP substrates.
Research shows that consuming apple juice inhibits OATP, which reduces bioavailability of oral drugs that are substrates of OATP. Fexofenadine, atenolol, and aliskiren are substrates of OATP. Clinical research shows that coadministration of apple juice decreases bioavailability of fexofenadine by up to 78%, aliskiren by 63%, and atenolol by up to 82%. These effects appear to increase with larger quantities of apple juice. It is thought that apple juice might affect OATP for only a short time. Therefore, separating drug administration and consumption of apple juice by at least 4 hours might avoid this interaction.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Aliskiren (Tekturna, Rasilez)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of aliskiren.
Pharmacokinetic research shows that coadministration of apple juice 200 mL along with aliskiren 150 mg decreases the bioavailability of aliskiren by 63%. Apple juice seems to inhibit organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP), which is involved in drug uptake in the gut, liver, and kidney. It is thought that apple juice might affect OATP for only a short time. Therefore, separating drug administration and consumption of apple juice by at least 4 hours might avoid this interaction.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, consuming apple juice with antidiabetes drugs might interfere with blood glucose control.
Clinical research suggests that consuming apples or drinking apple juice can raise blood glucose levels, with the effects of drinking apple juice being more significant than consuming apples.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Consuming apple juice with antihypertensive drugs might interfere with blood pressure control.
Some clinical evidence suggests that consuming apple and cherry juice can increase blood pressure in elderly patients.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Atenolol (Tenormin)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of atenolol.
Pharmacokinetic research shows that coadministration of apple juice 600-1200 mL decreases levels of atenolol by 58% to 82% in a dose-dependent manner. Apple juice seems to inhibit organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP), which is involved in drug uptake in the gut, liver, and kidney. It is thought that apple juice might affect OATP for only a short time. Therefore, separating drug administration and consumption of apple juice by at least 4 hours might avoid this interaction.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Fexofenadine (Allegra)

Concomitant consumption of apple juice can significantly decrease oral absorption and blood levels of fexofenadine.
Pharmacokinetic research shows that coadministration of apple juice 400-1200 mL along with fexofenadine 60-120 mg decreases bioavailability of fexofenadine by up to 78%. Coadministration with smaller quantities of apple juice (150 mL or less) does not appear to affect the bioavailability of fexofenadine. Apple juice seems to inhibit organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP), which is involved in drug uptake in the gut, liver, and kidney. It is thought that apple juice might affect OATP for only a short time. Therefore, separating drug administration and consumption of apple juice by at least 4 hours might avoid this interaction.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Lithium

There is some concern that concomitant consumption of apple juice might decrease oral absorption and blood levels of lithium.
In one case report, a patient had an undetectable serum lithium level when lithium citrate was administered with apple juice. When lithium was administered with an alternative beverage, the lithium level became detectable and the patient demonstrated clinical improvement.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Apple: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Apples are a nutritious whole food that provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidant plant compounds, and eating them regularly fits well into a healthy diet. While research suggests apples may support heart and digestive health, most claims about concentrated apple supplements or extracts are not strongly proven, so enjoy apples as food and talk with your pharmacist before using high-dose products.

Apple
Scientific name
Malus domestica
Family
Rosaceae
Part used
Fruit (with peel), and sometimes the peel, pectin (fiber), juice, and cider vinegar
Common forms
Fresh fruit, juice, dried fruit, applesauce, apple cider vinegar, pectin supplements, polyphenol extracts
People commonly use it for
  • General nutrition and fiber intake
  • Heart and cholesterol health
  • Blood sugar and weight management
  • Digestive regularity
  • Antioxidant support

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallLikely safe

Apples as a food are safe for most people when eaten in normal amounts.

PregnancyInsufficient reliable information

There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of apple in amounts greater than those found in foods during pregnancy and lacta...

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingInsufficient reliable information

There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of apple in amounts greater than those found in foods during pregnancy and lacta...

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

The apple is the fruit of the apple tree (Malus domestica), a member of the rose family. Apple trees are grown all over the world in temperate climates, and the fruit comes in many colors and varieties, from sweet to tart.

Apples are most often eaten fresh, but they are also made into juice, sauce, dried snacks, and cider. In the supplement world, apples are sold as pectin (a type of soluble fiber), polyphenol or antioxidant extracts, and apple cider vinegar. Most of the health interest comes from the fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidant plant compounds found in the fruit and its peel.

How it works

Apples contain several components that may explain their possible health effects. The main ones are fiber (including soluble fiber called pectin), vitamin C, and a group of antioxidant plant compounds called polyphenols, such as quercetin and catechins, which are concentrated in the peel.

Soluble fiber can bind to substances in the gut and may help lower cholesterol absorption and slow the rise of blood sugar after meals. Polyphenols act as antioxidants in laboratory studies, which means they may help reduce cell damage from unstable molecules. Many of these effects have been studied mostly in laboratory and animal research, so they do not automatically prove benefits in people.

Effectiveness

Does Apple work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 8 uses evaluated
8 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.

For Apple, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 8 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Alzheimer disease
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if apple juice consumption is beneficial in patients with Alzheimer disease.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cancer
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if apple consumption is beneficial for preventing cancer.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dental plaque
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if apple consumption is beneficial for reducing dental plaque. <b>Details</b>: A small clinical study in healthy patients shows that eating an apple is less effective for reducing plaque than brushing teeth. Eating an apple actually increases plaque when compared with baseline, although it decreases the measure of bacterial vitality.

Sources Ref 99447
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diabetes
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if consumption of powdered, dehydrated apple is beneficial in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diarrhea
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if apple juice consumption is beneficial in infants with severe diarrhea.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Metabolic syndrome
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using apple for metabolic syndrome, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of apple for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Muscle strength
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Oral apple extract has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effects when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Obesity
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if apple consumption is beneficial in patients with overweight or obesity.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Apples are a common food and are safe for most people when eaten in normal amounts. Eating apples during pregnancy and breastfeeding is considered safe as part of a regular diet. However, concentrated apple extracts, high-dose pectin supplements, and apple cider vinegar pills have not been well studied in pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it is best to be cautious and check with your doctor or pharmacist before using them.

Apple seeds contain a compound that can release small amounts of cyanide if the seeds are crushed and eaten in large quantities. Swallowing a few whole seeds by accident is generally harmless, but you should not chew or eat large amounts of apple seeds.

People with a known apple or birch pollen allergy should be careful, as apples can trigger oral allergy symptoms in sensitive individuals.

Side effects

Apples are well tolerated by most people. Eating large amounts of apples or apple fiber can cause gas, bloating, or loose stools because of the high fiber content. Apple juice and sauce contain natural sugars, so large amounts may not be ideal for people watching their blood sugar or calories.

Some people experience an itchy mouth, lips, or throat after eating raw apples, a reaction called oral allergy syndrome. Serious allergic reactions are rare but possible. Apple cider vinegar in concentrated form can irritate the throat and erode tooth enamel if used undiluted.

Apple: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Apple from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Orally, apple fruit is well tolerated. Apple seeds, which contain cyanide, may cause serious adverse effects when consumed in large amounts.

Most Common Adverse Effects:

Orally: Bloating, flatulence.

Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):

Orally: Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Ingestion of large amounts of apple seeds may cause cyanide poisoning, leading to death.

Reports by condition
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) Immunologic

Patients allergic to other fruits in the Rosaceae family, including apricot, almond, plum, peach, pear, and strawberry, can also be allergic to apples. Rarely, the allergy has resulted in anaphylaxis.

  1. Rodriguez J, Crespo JF, Lopez-Rubio A, et al. Clinical cross-reactivity among foods of the Rosaceae family. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2000;106:183-189.
  2. Tsiougkos N, Vovolis V. Repeated anaphylactic episodes to orange and apple. Eur Ann Allergy Clin Immunol. 2013 May;45(3):113-5.
Flatulence Gastrointestinal

Orally, apple products, including whole apples, apple puree, and apple juice, may cause bloating and flatulence in some people.

  1. Krishnasamy S, Lomer MCE, Marciani L, et al. Processing apples to puree or juice speeds gastric emptying and reduces postprandial intestinal volumes and satiety in healthy adults. J Nutr 2020;150(11):2890-9.
Poisoning Other

Orally, ingestion of large amounts of apple seeds, which contain hydrogen cyanide (HCN), may cause cyanide poisoning, leading to death. One death is attributed to ingestion of a cupful of apple seeds. To release cyanide, seeds must be hydrolyzed in the stomach, and several hours may elapse before poisoning symptoms occur.

  1. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no official medicinal dose for apples because they are a food rather than a drug. As part of a healthy diet, eating one or more whole apples per day is a reasonable goal for most people.

For apple supplements such as pectin, polyphenol extracts, or apple cider vinegar products, there is no established standardized dose. If you choose to use these, follow the directions on the product label and ask your pharmacist or doctor for guidance, especially if you have a health condition or take medicine.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Apple & Pregnancy

Insufficient reliable information

There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of apple in amounts greater than those found in foods during pregnancy and lactation; avoid using.

Apple & Breastfeeding

Insufficient reliable information

There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of apple in amounts greater than those found in foods during pregnancy and lactation; avoid using.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 16 references that drive our Apple monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
  2. Bailey DG, Dresser GK, Munoz C, et al. Reduction of fexofenadine bioavailability by fruit juices. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2001;69:P21.
  3. Rodriguez J, Crespo JF, Lopez-Rubio A, et al. Clinical cross-reactivity among foods of the Rosaceae family. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2000;106:183-189. PubMed
  4. Greenblatt DJ. Analysis of drug interactions involving fruit beverages and organic anion-transporting polypeptides. J Clin Pharmacol 2009;49:1403-7. PubMed
  5. Bailey DG. Fruit juice inhibition of uptake transport: a new type of food-drug interaction. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2010;70:645-55. PubMed
  6. Kamath AV, Yao M, Zhang Y, Chong S. Effect of fruit juices on the oral bioavailability of fexofenadine in rats. J Pharm Sci 2005;94:233-9. PubMed
  7. Tapaninen T, Neuvonen PJ, Niemi M. Orange and apple juice greatly reduce the plasma concentrations of the OATP2B1 substrate aliskiren. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2011;71:718-26. PubMed
  8. Jeon H, Jang IJ, Lee S, et al. Apple juice greatly reduces systemic exposure to atenolol. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2012 May 11. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2012.04324.x. [Epub ahead of print]. PubMed
  9. Visvanathan, R., Chen, R., Horowitz, M., and Chapman, I. Blood pressure responses in healthy older people to 50 g carbohydrate drinks with differing glycaemic effects. Br J Nutr 2004;92(2):335-340. PubMed
  10. Asp, N. G., Agardh, C. D., Ahren, B., Dencker, I., Johansson, C. G., Lundquist, I., Nyman, M., Sartor, G., and Schersten, B. Dietary fibre in type II diabetes. Acta Med Scand Suppl 1981;656:47-50. PubMed
  11. Akamine Y, Miura M, Komori H, et al. Effects of one-time apple juice ingestion on the pharmacokinetics of fexofenadine enantiomers. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 2014 Sep;70(9):1087-95. PubMed
  12. Luo J, Imai H, Ohyama T, et al. The Pharmacokinetic Exposure to Fexofenadine is Volume-Dependently Reduced in Healthy Subjects Following Oral Administration With Apple Juice. Clin Transl Sci. 2016 Aug;9(4):201-6. PubMed
  13. Tsiougkos N, Vovolis V. Repeated anaphylactic episodes to orange and apple. Eur Ann Allergy Clin Immunol. 2013 May;45(3):113-5.
  14. Rubido S, García-Caballero L, Abeleira MT, Limeres J, García M, Diz P. Effect of chewing an apple on dental plaque removal and on salivary bacterial viability. PLoS One. 2018;13(7):e0199812. PubMed
  15. Krishnasamy S, Lomer MCE, Marciani L, et al. Processing apples to puree or juice speeds gastric emptying and reduces postprandial intestinal volumes and satiety in healthy adults. J Nutr 2020;150(11):2890-9. PubMed
Keep reading

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.

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

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Apple

580 brands in our database make a supplement containing Apple.

Product directory

Supplement products with Apple

3,427 products in our database contain Apple. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Ageless Male Tonight by New Vitality Capsule 5 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive Cola by GT’s Alive Liquid 16 Fluid Ounce(s) · 473 mL View ingredients & interactions Alive! Adult Gummy Multivitamin by Nature's Way Gummy Or Jelly 50 Gummy(ies) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Adult Premium Gummies by Nature's Way Gummy Or Jelly 90 Gummy(ies) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Adult Premium Gummies by Nature's Way Gummy Or Jelly 90 Gummy(ies) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Adult Ultra Multivitamin by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Adult Ultra Potency Complete Multivitamin by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! B-Complex Gummies Delicious Mango Flavored by Nature's Way Gummy Or Jelly 60 Gummy(ies) View ingredients & interactions Alive! B-Complex Gummy Mango Flavored by Nature's Way Gummy Or Jelly 60 Gummy(ies) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Calcium & Vitamin D3 Gummies by Nature's Way Gummy Or Jelly 60 Gummy(ies) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Calcium + Vitamin D3 Gummies by Nature's Way Gummy Or Jelly 60 Gummy(ies) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Calcium 1,200 mg by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 120 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Calcium 1,200 mg by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 120 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Calcium 1,200 mg by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Calcium 1,300 mg by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 120 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Calcium 1,300 mg by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Calcium Bone Formula by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 180 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Calcium Bone Support by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 180 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Calcium Bone Support 1,200 mg by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 180 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Children's Chewable Multi-Vitamin by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 60 Chewable Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Children's Chewables Multi-Vitamin Orange + Berry Fruit Flavors by Nature's Way Tablet Or Pill 120 Chewable Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Complete Liquid Multivitamin Max Potency Citrus Flavored by Nature's Way Liquid 30.4 Fluid Ounce(s) · 1.9 Pint(s) · 900 mL View ingredients & interactions Alive! Complete Liquid Multivitamin Max Potency Citrus Flavored by Nature's Way Liquid 30.4 Fluid Ounce(s) · 1.9 PT · 900 Milliliter(s) View ingredients & interactions Alive! Complete Premium Prenatal Multivitamin by Nature's Way Softgel Capsule 60 Vegan Softgel(s) View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Apple: Common Questions

What is Apple used for, and does it work?
People use Apple for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.
Does Apple interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 300 medications with a known interaction with Apple, including 47 rated major. Use the checker above to see how Apple interacts with a specific drug.
How are Apple interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Apple with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Apple interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
Is it true that 'an Apple a day keeps the doctor away'?
This is a popular saying, not a medical fact. Apples are a healthy, fiber-rich food, but no single food prevents illness on its own; a balanced diet overall matters most.
Are Apples good for people with diabetes?
Whole Apples are a fiber-rich fruit that can fit into a diabetes-friendly diet when eaten in reasonable portions. Apple juice and sauce have more concentrated sugar, so whole fruit is usually a better choice.
Is the Apple peel healthier than the inside?
The peel contains much of the Apple's fiber and antioxidant polyphenols, so eating Apples with the skin on gives you more of these nutrients. Just wash the fruit well first.
Are Apple cider vinegar pills as good as eating Apples?
Apple cider vinegar is made differently from whole Apples and does not provide the same fiber and nutrients. Evidence for vinegar supplements treating health conditions is limited, so they are not a replacement for eating fruit.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Products that contain Apple

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Apple — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

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