Herb & supplement monograph

Broccoli Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

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

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

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Broccoli 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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On this page

Broccoli 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 Broccoli drug interaction appears low for most people eating typical amounts. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and every one rests on a theoretical concern rather than documented harm in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The interactions worth the most attention involve medications cleared by two liver enzymes, listed as CYP1A2 substrates and CYP2A6 substrates. Human research shows that eating large amounts of broccoli every day, around 500 grams for about a week, can sharply increase the activity of these enzymes. In theory, that could lower the levels of affected medications and make them work less well, which would matter most for a medicine that depends on steady blood levels. Whether this actually changes how these drugs work in real life has not been confirmed.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of moderate interactions comes almost entirely from these two enzyme pathways, not from many separate proven problems. The concern is theoretical, based on natural compounds in broccoli that may speed up how the body clears certain medications. The enzyme changes were also seen with very large daily servings, well beyond what most people eat.

Check your medications against Broccoli

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

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Broccoli

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

2,830 drugs
AcetaminophenChildren's Tylenol, Children's Tylenol Meltaways, Tylenol, Tylenol Ex Strength
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen interaction Acetaminophen drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Acetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interaction
Acetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, ButalbitalAxocet, Bancap, Bucet, Butex Forte, Esgic CF, Orbivan CF +5 more
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Butalbital interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interaction Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine PhosphatePhrenilin #3
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic GG
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylephrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS, Histex SR, Protid
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic, Rhinogesic JR
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineAlumadrine, Conex, Sinadrin Max Strength, Sinulin
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, OpiumHista-Derfule
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, PhenyltoloxamineNorel Plus
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Phenyltoloxamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PseudoephedrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS Liquid Gels, Children's Tylenol Cold, Codimal, Comtrex, Extra Strength Tylenol Allergy Sinus, Lorsin +3 more
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, ChlorzoxazoneAcetazone Forte, Extra Strength Tylenol Aches & Strains, Parafon Forte
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone, CodeineAcetazone Forte C8, Parafon Forte C8
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Broccoli + Acetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone, Codeine interaction
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 Broccoli 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 Broccoli affects

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

All 2 drug categories Broccoli interacts with
Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2a6 (cyp2a6) Substrates
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Pharmacokinetic research in humans shows that eating 500 grams of fresh broccoli daily for 6-12 days can increase CYP1A2 activity by 10% to 200%. Induction of CYP1A2 activity by broccoli is attributed to its glucosinolate constituents.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 2A6 (Cyp2A6) Substrates

Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2A6.
Pharmacokinetic research in humans shows that eating 500 grams of broccoli daily for 6 days increases CYP2A6 activity by 135% to 550%. Induction of CYP2A6 activity is attributed to its glucosinolate constituents.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Monograph

Broccoli: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Broccoli is a nutritious cruciferous vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins, and plant compounds like sulforaphane that have drawn scientific interest for health benefits. Eating broccoli as food is safe and healthy for most people, but concentrated supplements and extracts are less studied and benefits are not firmly proven. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor before using broccoli supplements, especially in high doses.

Scientific name
Brassica oleracea var. italica
Family
Brassicaceae
Part used
Florets, sprouts, seeds, and stalks
Common forms
Whole vegetable (fresh, frozen, cooked), broccoli sprouts, powders, capsules, and sulforaphane or glucoraphanin extracts
People commonly use it for
  • General nutrition and antioxidant support
  • Heart and digestive health
  • Detoxification support
  • Cancer risk reduction (popular interest)
  • Blood sugar support

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

Safety at a glance
OverallLikely safe

Broccoli as a food is safe for most people; concentrated supplements are less studied.

PregnancyLikely Safe

When used orally in food amounts. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of broccoli when used in medicinal amounts dur...

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingLikely Safe

When used orally in food amounts. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of broccoli when used in medicinal amounts dur...

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

Broccoli is a green vegetable in the cabbage family, the same family as cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts. It is grown around the world and is a common part of many diets. People usually eat the flower-like heads (florets) and stalks, either raw or cooked.

Besides being eaten as food, broccoli is also sold as a supplement. Broccoli sprouts (young broccoli plants) and concentrated extracts of compounds like sulforaphane are sold as powders, capsules, and drinks. These products are marketed for a range of health goals, though they are far less studied than broccoli eaten as a regular food.

How it works

Broccoli contains compounds called glucosinolates. When broccoli is chopped, chewed, or its sprouts are crushed, an enzyme converts a glucosinolate called glucoraphanin into sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is the compound most studied for possible health effects.

In laboratory and animal studies, sulforaphane appears to activate the body's own antioxidant and detoxification pathways and may reduce certain markers of inflammation. Broccoli also provides fiber, vitamins, and other antioxidants that support general health.

It is important to remember that much of this research comes from cells and animals. These findings do not always translate into proven benefits for people.

Effectiveness

Does Broccoli work?

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

Evidence overview · 9 uses evaluated
1 Possibly effective 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.
Possibly Effective Colorectal cancer
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Consumption of cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli, seems to reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

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

It is unclear if consumption of broccoli reduces the risk of developing bladder cancer.

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

It is unclear if consumption of broccoli reduces the risk of developing breast cancer.

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

Broccoli has only been evaluated in combination with ascorbigen; its effect when used alone is unclear.

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

It is unclear if consumption of broccoli reduces the risk of developing gastric cancer.

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

It is unclear if consumption of broccoli is beneficial for treating Helicobacter pylori infection.

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

Broccoli has only been evaluated in combination with cabbage; its effect when used alone is unclear.

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

It is unclear if consumption of broccoli can prevent hypertension in healthy adults.

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

It is unclear if consumption of broccoli reduces the risk of developing prostate cancer; the available research is conflicting. In patients with prostate cancer, broccoli has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

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

Broccoli eaten as a normal food is very safe for most people and is part of a healthy diet. Concentrated supplements, extracts, and high-dose sprout products are less well studied, so their long-term safety is not fully known.

People with thyroid problems may want to be mindful, since very large amounts of cruciferous vegetables contain compounds (goitrogens) that could affect the thyroid, especially if iodine intake is low. This is mainly a concern with very high intakes, not normal food portions.

Pregnancy: Eating broccoli as a food in normal amounts is generally considered fine and nutritious. Concentrated broccoli or sulforaphane supplements have not been well studied in pregnancy, so it is safest to avoid them unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Breastfeeding: Broccoli as food is generally fine while breastfeeding. The safety of concentrated extracts is not established, so caution is advised. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting any supplement.

Side effects

For most people, broccoli causes few problems beyond mild digestive effects. Common complaints include gas, bloating, and stomach discomfort, especially when eating large amounts of raw broccoli or sprouts.

Concentrated supplements may sometimes cause stomach upset or nausea. Allergic reactions to broccoli are uncommon but possible. Stop use and seek medical care if you have signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling, or trouble breathing.

Broccoli: Reported Adverse Effects

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

Reports by condition
Dermatitis Immunologic

Topically, allergic reactions to broccoli have caused contact dermatitis.

  1. Chakrabarti A, Prais L, Foulds IS. Allergic contact dermatitis to broccoli. Br J Dermatol 2003;148:172-3.
Diarrhea Gastrointestinal

Orally, loose stools, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and abdominal cramping have been reported following intake of broccoli seed and sprout extracts, particularly at high doses.

  1. Bauman JE, Hsu CH, Centuori S, et al. Randomized Crossover Trial Evaluating Detoxification of Tobacco Carcinogens by Broccoli Seed and Sprout Extract in Current Smokers. Cancers (Basel). 2022;14(9):2129. Published 2022 Apr 24.
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 or standardized supplement dose for broccoli. As a food, broccoli can simply be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

For broccoli sprout and sulforaphane products, the amount of active compound varies a lot between brands, and a proven effective dose has not been established. If you choose to use a supplement, follow the directions on the product label and do not exceed the recommended amount.

Because product quality and strength differ, it is best to check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting a broccoli supplement, especially if you have a health condition or take medications.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Broccoli & Pregnancy

Likely Safe

When used orally in food amounts. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of broccoli when used in medicinal amounts during pregnancy and lactation; avoid using.

  1. Kristal AR, Lampe JW. Brassica vegetables and prostate cancer risk: a review of the epidemiological evidence. Nutr Cancer 2002;42:1-9.

Broccoli & Breastfeeding

Likely Safe

When used orally in food amounts. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of broccoli when used in medicinal amounts during pregnancy and lactation; avoid using.

  1. Kristal AR, Lampe JW. Brassica vegetables and prostate cancer risk: a review of the epidemiological evidence. Nutr Cancer 2002;42:1-9.
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 5 references that drive our Broccoli 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. Kristal AR, Lampe JW. Brassica vegetables and prostate cancer risk: a review of the epidemiological evidence. Nutr Cancer 2002;42:1-9. PubMed
  2. Chakrabarti A, Prais L, Foulds IS. Allergic contact dermatitis to broccoli. Br J Dermatol 2003;148:172-3. PubMed
  3. Hakooz, N. and Hamdan, I. Effects of dietary broccoli on human in vivo caffeine metabolism: a pilot study on a group of Jordanian volunteers. Curr Drug Metab 2007;8(1):9-15. PubMed
  4. Kall MA, Vang O, Clausen J. Effects of dietary broccoli on human drug metabolising activity. Cancer Lett. 1997;114(1-2):169-70. PubMed
  5. Bauman JE, Hsu CH, Centuori S, et al. Randomized Crossover Trial Evaluating Detoxification of Tobacco Carcinogens by Broccoli Seed and Sprout Extract in Current Smokers. Cancers (Basel). 2022;14(9):2129. Published 2022 Apr 24. 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 Broccoli

734 brands in our database make a supplement containing Broccoli.

Product directory

Supplement products with Broccoli

5,508 products in our database contain Broccoli. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions A.J.'s Ultra Multi without Iron by Altrum Nutrition Tablet Or Pill 180 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions a2z Chewable Natural Watermelon Flavor by doTERRA Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions a2z Chewable Strawberry Flavored by doTERRA Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Acid Neutralizer Mild Grape Flavor by Greens First Pro Powder 4.29 Oz(s) · 121.8 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions Acne Support by Rise-N-Shine Capsule 30 Vegetable Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Activated Broccoli by NOW Capsule 60 Veg Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Activated Broccoli Seed Extract 350 mg by Solaray Capsule 30 VegCap(s) View ingredients & interactions Activated Broccoli Vital Extracts 350 mg by Solaray Capsule 30 VegCap(s) View ingredients & interactions Activated Sulforaphane Complex by SMNutrition Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Active Mixed Berry by GNC Ultra Mega Green Powder 34.7 oz. · 2.17 lb · 984 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions Activin Plus by Douglas Laboratories Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Activite Sport by MHP Maximum Human Performance Tablet Or Pill 120 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions ActivNutrients Performance by XYMOGEN Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Adam's Vitality by Logos Nutritionals Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions AdaptaMax by Nature's Sunshine Capsule 100 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Adult Multivitamin by Dr. Tobias Tablet Or Pill 90 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Broccoli: Common Questions

What is Broccoli used for, and does it work?
People use Broccoli for many reasons, but the evidence varies by use. According to the Natural Medicines database, there is at least some clinical evidence supporting Broccoli for Colorectal cancer. For most other uses it has been studied for, the evidence is currently insufficient to rate. See the graded list on this page, and always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Does Broccoli interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 187 medications with a known interaction with Broccoli. Use the checker above to see how Broccoli interacts with a specific drug.
How are Broccoli 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 Broccoli 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 Broccoli 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 Broccoli good for you?
Yes. Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable that provides fiber, vitamins, and beneficial plant compounds, and it fits well into a healthy diet for most people.
Are Broccoli supplements better than eating Broccoli?
Not necessarily. Eating Broccoli as a food is well studied and provides fiber and many nutrients, while concentrated supplements are less researched and their benefits are not firmly proven.
Does cooking Broccoli destroy its benefits?
Cooking, especially heavy boiling, can reduce some vitamins and lower the amount of sulforaphane formed. Light steaming or eating some raw Broccoli helps preserve more of these compounds.
Can I take Broccoli supplements while pregnant?
Eating Broccoli as a food is generally fine during pregnancy, but concentrated supplements have not been well studied, so it is safest to avoid them unless your doctor approves.

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

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