Herb & supplement monograph

Bitter Melon Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

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

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

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Bitter Melon 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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Bitter Melon Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Bitter Melon drug interaction appears low for most people. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and most rest on lab research rather than confirmed effects in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The interaction with the best human support involves diabetes medications. Bitter melon can lower blood glucose on its own, so combining it with these drugs may add up and raise the risk of low blood sugar, which makes close glucose monitoring sensible. There is also a single case report linking bitter melon juice to pancreatitis-like symptoms in a patient taking the cancer drug pazopanib, so caution is reasonable with that medication even though the evidence is limited.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of moderate interactions comes almost entirely from one theoretical concern: bitter melon may block a pump in the gut that helps move many medications, which could raise their levels. That idea is based mainly on lab research, and it has not been shown to cause meaningful changes in people. For most medications on the list, the risk remains unproven rather than established.

Check your medications against Bitter Melon

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

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Bitter Melon

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

2,830 drugs
AcalabrutinibCalquence
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Acalabrutinib interaction Acalabrutinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Taking bitter melon with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Acarbose interaction Acarbose drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcetohexamideDymelor
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Taking bitter melon with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Acetohexamide interaction
Afatinib DimaleateGilotrif
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Afatinib Dimaleate interaction Afatinib Dimaleate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AlbiglutideTanzeum
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Taking bitter melon with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Albiglutide interaction
AlogliptinNesina
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Taking bitter melon with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Alogliptin interaction Alogliptin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Alogliptin, MetforminKazano
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Taking bitter melon with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Alogliptin, Metformin interaction
Alogliptin, PioglitazoneOseni
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Taking bitter melon with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Alogliptin, Pioglitazone interaction
AlvimopanEntereg
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Alvimopan interaction Alvimopan drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AmbrisentanLetairis, Volibris
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Ambrisentan interaction Ambrisentan drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Amphotericin, TetracyclineMysteclin-F
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Amphotericin, Tetracycline interaction
AmprenavirAgenerase
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Amprenavir interaction
Antidiabetes, Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (dpp-iv) InhibitorGlyxambi
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Antidiabetes, Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (dpp-iv) Inhibitor interaction
ApixabanEliquis
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Apixaban interaction Apixaban drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
ApomorphineAPO-go, APO-go Pen, APO-go PFS, Apokyn, Uprima
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Apomorphine interaction Apomorphine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Apomorphine HydrochlorideKynmobi
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Apomorphine Hydrochloride interaction
ArmodafinilNuvigil
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Armodafinil interaction Armodafinil drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AtogepantQulipta
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Atogepant interaction Atogepant drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Atropine, Morphine SulfateAtropine, Morphine Sulfate
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Atropine, Morphine Sulfate interaction
Avatrombopag MaleateDoptelet
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Avatrombopag Maleate interaction Avatrombopag Maleate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Bazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated EstrogensDuavee
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Bazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated Estrogens interaction Bazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated Estrogens drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Beclometasone DipropionateBecotide
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Beclometasone Dipropionate interaction
BeclomethasoneBeclovent, Vanceril
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Beclomethasone interaction Beclomethasone drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Beclomethasone DipropionateQNASL, Qvar
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Beclomethasone Dipropionate interaction Beclomethasone Dipropionate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
BelinostatBeleodaq
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Belinostat interaction Belinostat drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Berotralstat HydrochlorideOrladeyo
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Berotralstat Hydrochloride interaction
BetamethasoneCelestone, Diprolene AF, Diprosone
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Betamethasone interaction Betamethasone drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Betamethasone DipropionateSernivo
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Betamethasone Dipropionate interaction Betamethasone Dipropionate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Betamethasone Dipropionate, CalcipotrieneEnstilar, Wynzora
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Betamethasone Dipropionate, Calcipotriene interaction
Betamethasone ValerateLuxiq
Moderate P-glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.

Read the full Bitter Melon + Betamethasone Valerate interaction Betamethasone Valerate 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 Bitter Melon 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 Bitter Melon affects

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

All 3 drug categories Bitter Melon interacts with
Antidiabetes DrugsP-glycoprotein SubstratesPazopanib (votrient)
Antidiabetes Drugs

Taking bitter melon with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Bitter melon can lower blood glucose levels and might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs. This might increase the risk of hypoglycemia in some patients. Monitor blood glucose levels closely.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
Bitter melon might inhibit the p-glycoprotein (P-gp) intestinal pump and increase intracellular levels of P-gp substrates. In vitro research in intestinal cells shows that 1-monopalmitin, a constituent of bitter melon, increases levels of daunomycin, a P-gp substrate. Additionally, drinking bitter melon juice has been associated with a case of acute pancreatitis in a patient who had been taking pazopanib, a P-gp substrate, for 8 years. Researchers theorize that inhibition of P-gp led to increased levels of pazopanib, resulting in pazopanib-induced pancreatitis.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Pazopanib (Votrient)

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of pazopanib, potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects.
In one case, a 65-year-old patient taking pazopanib for 8 years for renal cell carcinoma experienced signs and symptoms consistent with acute pancreatitis 4 days after drinking bitter melon juice at a dose of 100-150 mL daily. The patient's symptoms, amylase levels, and lipase levels improved upon discontinuation of bitter melon and pazopanib. Pazopanib treatment was re-initiated with no further evidence of pancreatitis. Researchers theorize that inhibition of P-glycoprotein by bitter melon led to increased levels of pazopanib, a P-glycoprotein substrate, resulting in pazopanib-induced pancreatitis.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Bitter Melon: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Bitter melon is a tropical fruit eaten as food and used in traditional medicine, most often for blood sugar control. While some small studies hint it may modestly lower blood sugar, the evidence is limited and inconsistent, so it should not replace proven diabetes treatment. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before using it, especially if you take diabetes medicines or are pregnant.

Bitter Melon
Scientific name
Momordica charantia
Family
Cucurbitaceae
Part used
Fruit, seeds, leaves, and juice
Common forms
Fresh fruit, juice, capsules, dried powder, tea, extracts
People commonly use it for
  • Blood sugar support
  • Diabetes
  • Digestive complaints
  • Antioxidant source
  • Skin conditions

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

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Generally tolerated as food, but supplement amounts may lower blood sugar and cause stomach upset.

PregnancyBest avoided

Traditionally avoided in pregnancy because seeds and high doses may cause uterine or other harmful effects.

BreastfeedingInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

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

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) is a tropical and subtropical vine in the gourd family. Its fruit is long and green with a bumpy, warty surface and a very bitter taste. It grows in parts of Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and South America.

It is widely eaten as a vegetable, especially in Indian, Chinese, and Southeast Asian cooking, where it is often called karela or ampalaya. Beyond food, it has a long history in traditional medicine systems for a range of conditions.

Today people take bitter melon as fresh fruit, juice, dried powder, tea, or capsules. The most common modern reason people use it is to help support healthy blood sugar levels.

How it works

Bitter melon contains several compounds that researchers believe may affect blood sugar. These include charantin, a substance called vicine, and a protein sometimes called polypeptide-p that has been compared to insulin in laboratory studies.

Proposed actions include helping cells take up glucose, affecting enzymes involved in sugar handling, and acting on insulin-related pathways. The fruit is also a source of antioxidants such as vitamin C and various plant compounds.

It is important to know that much of this mechanism research comes from test-tube and animal studies. How well these effects apply to people taking bitter melon is still uncertain.

Effectiveness

Does Bitter Melon work?

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

Evidence overview · 19 uses evaluated
19 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 Bitter Melon, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 19 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Amenorrhea
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral bitter melon for amenorrhea, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this condition.

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

It is unclear if oral bitter melon is beneficial for improving athletic performance.

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

Although there is interest in using oral bitter melon for constipation, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this purpose.

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

Although some research suggests that bitter melon may improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes, evidence is conflicting and of limited quality.

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

Although there is interest in using oral bitter melon for dyspepsia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this purpose.

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

Although there is interest in using topical bitter melon for genital herpes, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate HIV/AIDS
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral bitter melon for HIV/AIDS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Impaired glucose tolerance (prediabetes)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral bitter melon is beneficial in patients with prediabetes.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Intestinal parasite infection
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral bitter melon for intestinal parasite infection, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral bitter melon for kidney stones, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this condition.

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

Although there is interest in using oral bitter melon for liver disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this condition.

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

Although there is interest in using oral bitter melon for metabolic syndrome, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this condition.

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

It is unclear if oral bitter melon is beneficial for weight loss.

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

It is unclear if oral bitter melon is beneficial in patients with osteoarthritis.

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

Although there is interest in using oral bitter melon for peptic ulcers, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this condition.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there is interest in using oral bitter melon for PCOS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this condition.

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

Although there is interest in using oral bitter melon for psoriasis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this condition.

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

Although there is interest in using oral bitter melon for ulcerative colitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this condition.

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

Although there is interest in using topical bitter melon for wound healing, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of bitter melon for this purpose.

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

When eaten as a normal food, bitter melon is generally considered safe for most people. Concentrated supplements, juices, or large amounts may carry more risk, mainly because they can lower blood sugar.

People with diabetes should be especially careful, since bitter melon may add to the blood-sugar-lowering effect of their medicines and cause levels to drop too low. Watch for symptoms like shakiness, sweating, or dizziness, and monitor closely.

Pregnant women should avoid bitter melon in medicinal amounts. The seeds and high doses have traditionally been linked to harmful effects, and there are reports of possible risk to pregnancy. For breastfeeding, there is not enough reliable safety information, so it is best avoided. The seeds also contain vicine, which can be a particular concern for people with G6PD deficiency, a genetic condition that can lead to a type of anemia.

Side effects

The most common side effects are stomach upset, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, especially with juice or larger amounts.

Because it may lower blood sugar, bitter melon can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), particularly in people who already take diabetes medicines.

Eating the seeds may be harmful, and in people with G6PD deficiency the seeds can trigger a reaction called "favism" that causes red blood cells to break down. Headache and, rarely, other reactions have also been reported. Stop use and seek medical advice if you feel unwell.

Bitter Melon: Reported Adverse Effects

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

Orally, bitter melon is generally well tolerated.

Most Common Adverse Effects:

Orally: Abdominal discomfort, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, flatulence, headache, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting.

Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):

Orally: Hypoglycemic coma and seizures (in children).

Reports by condition
Anorexia Gastrointestinal

The most common adverse effects associated with bitter melon in clinical studies are gastrointestinal, such as heartburn, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, and abdominal discomfort. In one study, these events occurred in about 3% to 16% of patients taking bitter melon.

  1. Rahman IU, Khan RU, Rahman KU, Bashir M. Lower hypoglycemic but higher antiatherogenic effects of bitter melon than glibenclamide in type 2 diabetic patients. Nutr J. 2015;14:13.
  2. Peter EL, Kasali FM, Deyno S, et al. Momordica charantia L. lowers elevated glycaemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: Systematic review and meta-analysis. J Ethnopharmacol. 2019;231:311-24. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.10.033.
  3. Cortez-Navarrete M, Martínez-Abundis E, Pérez-Rubio KG, González-Ortiz M, Méndez-Del Villar M. Momordica charantia administration improves insulin secretion in type 2 diabetes mellitus. J Med Food. 2018;21(7):672-7. doi: 10.108
  4. Kim SK, Jung J, Jung JH, et al. Hypoglycemic efficacy and safety of Momordica charantia (bitter melon) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Complement Ther Med. 2020 Aug;52:102524. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102524.
Diabetes Renal

In one case report, a 60-year-old female was diagnosed with acute interstitial nephritis after a gradual decline in renal function over 9 months. The patient later admitted to taking bitter melon extract 600 mg daily for 3 months followed by 1200 mg daily for 4 months for diabetes. Upon discontinuation of bitter melon and treatment with prednisolone, serum creatinine levels returned to baseline within 3 months.

  1. Bae W, Kim S, Choi J, et al. Acute interstitial nephritis associated with ingesting a Momordica charantia extract: a case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021;100(27):e26606.
Epilepsy Neurologic/CNS

Headaches, dizziness, and fatigue have been reported after the ingestion of bitter melon. In one clinical study, about 5% of patients taking bitter melon 2-4 grams daily reported dizziness. Two cases of seizures have occurred in children after administration of a bitter melon tea.

  1. Basch E, Gabardi S, Ulbricht C. Bitter melon (Momordica charantia): a review of efficacy and safety. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2003;60:356-9.
  2. Rahman IU, Khan RU, Rahman KU, Bashir M. Lower hypoglycemic but higher antiatherogenic effects of bitter melon than glibenclamide in type 2 diabetic patients. Nutr J. 2015;14:13.
  3. Cortez-Navarrete M, Martínez-Abundis E, Pérez-Rubio KG, González-Ortiz M, Méndez-Del Villar M. Momordica charantia administration improves insulin secretion in type 2 diabetes mellitus. J Med Food. 2018;21(7):672-7. doi: 10.108
  4. Kim B, Lee HS, Kim HJ, et al. Momordica charantia (bitter melon) efficacy and safety on glucose metabolism in Korean prediabetes participants: a 12-week, randomized clinical study. Food Sci Biotechnol 2022;32(5):697-704.
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 well-established standard dose for bitter melon. Studies have used different forms, including fresh fruit, juice, and extracts, which makes it hard to give a single reliable amount.

If you choose to use a supplement, follow the directions on the product label and do not exceed the recommended amount. Avoid eating large quantities of the seeds.

Because product strength and quality can vary, it is best to check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting bitter melon, especially if you have diabetes or take any medicines.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Bitter Melon & Breastfeeding

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; 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 18 references that drive our Bitter Melon 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. Leatherdale B, Panesar RK, Singh G, et al. Improvement in glucose tolerance due to Momordica charantia. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1981;282:1823-4.
  2. Welihinda J, et al. Effect of Momordica charantia on the glucose tolerance in maturity onset diabetes. J Ethnopharmacol 1986;17:277-82. PubMed
  3. Srivastava Y, Venkatakrishna-Bhatt H, Verma Y, et al. Antidiabetic and adaptogenic properties of Momordica charantia extract: An experimental and clinical evaluation. Phytother Res 1993;7:285-9.
  4. Baldwa VS, Bhandari CM, Pangaria A, Goyal RK. Clinical trial in patients with diabetes mellitus of an insulin-like compound obtained from plant sources. Ups J Med Sci 1977;82:39-41. PubMed
  5. Aslam M, Stockley IH. Interaction between curry ingredient (karela) and drug (chlorpropamide). Lancet 1979:1:607. PubMed
  6. Ahmad N, Hassan MR, Halder H, Bennoor KS. Effect of Momordica charantia (Karolla) extracts on fasting and postprandial serum glucose levels in NIDDM patients (abstract). Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 1999;25:11-3.
  7. Basch E, Gabardi S, Ulbricht C. Bitter melon (Momordica charantia): a review of efficacy and safety. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2003;60:356-9. PubMed
  8. Yin RV, Lee NC, Hirpara H, Phung OJ. T. The effect of bitter melon (Mormordica charantia) in patients with diabetes mellitus: s systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Diabetes. 2014;4:e145.
  9. Rahman IU, Khan RU, Rahman KU, Bashir M. Lower hypoglycemic but higher antiatherogenic effects of bitter melon than glibenclamide in type 2 diabetic patients. Nutr J. 2015;14:13. PubMed
  10. Alam MA, Uddin R, Subhan N, Rahman MM, Jain P, Reza HM. Beneficial role of bitter melon supplementation in obesity and related complications in metabolic syndrome. J Lipids. 2015;2015:496169. PubMed
  11. Konishi T, Satsu H, Hatsugai Y, et al. Inhibitory effect of a bitter melon extract on the P-glycoprotein activity in intestinal Caco-2 cells. Br J Pharmacol. 2004;143(3):379-87. PubMed
  12. Peter EL, Kasali FM, Deyno S, et al. Momordica charantia L. lowers elevated glycaemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: Systematic review and meta-analysis. J Ethnopharmacol. 2019;231:311-24. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.10.033. PubMed
  13. Cortez-Navarrete M, Martínez-Abundis E, Pérez-Rubio KG, González-Ortiz M, Méndez-Del Villar M. Momordica charantia administration improves insulin secretion in type 2 diabetes mellitus. J Med Food. 2018;21(7):672-7. doi: 10.108
  14. Kim SK, Jung J, Jung JH, et al. Hypoglycemic efficacy and safety of Momordica charantia (bitter melon) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Complement Ther Med. 2020 Aug;52:102524. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102524. PubMed
  15. Unsal O, Sütcüoglu O, Yazici O. Dangerous interaction of bitter melon (Momordica charantia) with pazopanib: a case of acute pancreatitis. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2022;28(2):486-8.
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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.

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 Bitter Melon

291 brands in our database make a supplement containing Bitter Melon.

Product directory

Supplement products with Bitter Melon

737 products in our database contain Bitter Melon. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Blood Glucose Support by GNC Women's Ultra Mega Capsule 30 Pack(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar by Prince Of Peace Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 18 Tea Bag(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar by Healths Harmony Capsule 120 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar by Dr. Tobias Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar by Healths Harmony Capsule 120 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar by Healths Harmony Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar by Healths Harmony Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar + by Blisque Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar 365 by Arazo Nutrition Capsule 120 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Balance by SkinnyBean Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Balance by ENP Liquid 1 QT · 0.946 Liter(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Balance by Eclectic Herb Capsule 45 Veg Cap(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Balance 335 mg by Eclectic Herb Capsule 45 Veg Cap(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Breakthrough by BiOptimizers Capsule 60 Veggie Cap(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Breakthrough by BiOptimizers Capsule 60 Cap(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Defense by KAL Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Formula by PureHealth Research Capsule 90 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Formula by Rise-N-Shine Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Formula by Rise-N-Shine Capsule 30 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Formula by Vitabase Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Formula by Vitabase Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Formula by SigmaCeutical Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Formula by Nature's Sunshine Capsule 100 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Blood Sugar Harmony by L.A. Naturals Capsule 90 Veggie Cap(s) View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Bitter Melon: Common Questions

What is Bitter Melon used for, and does it work?
People use Bitter Melon 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 Bitter Melon interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 282 medications with a known interaction with Bitter Melon. Use the checker above to see how Bitter Melon interacts with a specific drug.
How are Bitter Melon 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 Bitter Melon 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 Bitter Melon 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.
What is Bitter Melon mainly used for?
It is most often used to help support healthy blood sugar levels, and it is also eaten as a vegetable. Traditional uses include digestive and skin complaints, though strong evidence is lacking for most of these.
Does Bitter Melon really lower blood sugar?
Some small studies suggest it may lower blood sugar modestly, but results are mixed and the quality of evidence is limited. It should not be used in place of proven diabetes treatment.
Is Bitter Melon safe during pregnancy?
No, medicinal amounts should be avoided during pregnancy. The seeds and high doses have traditionally been linked to harmful effects on pregnancy.
Can Bitter Melon cause side effects?
Yes. The most common are stomach upset and diarrhea, and it may cause low blood sugar. People with G6PD deficiency should avoid the seeds, which can trigger a serious reaction.

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

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Products that contain Bitter Melon

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

See all 737 products with Bitter Melon →
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