Herb & supplement monograph

Feverfew Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

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

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

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Feverfew 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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Feverfew 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 Feverfew drug interaction appears low for most people, because nearly all listed interactions are theoretical. None of the interactions are rated major, and although all are graded moderate, they rest almost entirely on laboratory findings that have not been confirmed in humans.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The combination most worth watching is feverfew with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs, often called blood thinners. Lab research suggests feverfew may make platelets less sticky, and one person taking a high daily dose for several months had abnormal vaginal bleeding. That is limited evidence, but bleeding risk is the kind of effect where even a small added push can matter, so anyone on these medicines should be more careful with feverfew than the average person.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of interacting medications looks alarming, but almost all of it comes from a single idea: lab studies suggest feverfew might slow several enzymes the body uses to clear many common drugs. None of these enzyme effects has actually been reported to cause problems in people, so most combinations are flagged out of caution rather than proven harm.

Check your medications against Feverfew

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

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Feverfew

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

2,830 drugs
Ado-trastuzumab EmtansineKadcyla
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Read the full Feverfew + Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interaction Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AbciximabReoPro
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, feverfew might have additive effects and increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Feverfew + Abciximab interaction
AbemaciclibVerzenio
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Read the full Feverfew + Abemaciclib interaction Abemaciclib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Abiraterone
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Read the full Feverfew + Abiraterone interaction Abiraterone drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Abiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Read the full Feverfew + Abiraterone Acetate interaction Abiraterone Acetate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AbrocitinibCibinqo
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, feverfew might have additive effects and increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Feverfew + Abrocitinib interaction Abrocitinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcalabrutinibCalquence
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Read the full Feverfew + Acalabrutinib interaction Acalabrutinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcenocoumarolSintrom
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, feverfew might have additive effects and increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Read the full Feverfew + Acenocoumarol interaction
AcetaminophenChildren's Tylenol, Children's Tylenol Meltaways, Tylenol, Tylenol Ex Strength
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

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

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interaction
Acetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, feverfew might have additive effects and increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

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

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

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

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

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

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Feverfew + 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 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.

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

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.

Read the full Feverfew + 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, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.

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

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.

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

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic GG
Moderate Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

Read the full Feverfew + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide 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 Feverfew 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 Feverfew affects

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

All 7 drug categories Feverfew interacts with
Anticoagulant/antiplatelet DrugsCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2c8 (cyp2c8) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) SubstratesCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) SubstratesCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, feverfew might have additive effects and increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Laboratory research suggests that feverfew may inhibit platelet aggregation. Additionally, in one case report, a 36-year-old patient taking feverfew 2400 mg daily for 3 months experienced vaginal bleeding and a prolonged menstrual cycle, with a modest increase in partial thromboplastin time (PTT) and prothrombin time (PT).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Laboratory research shows that feverfew might inhibit CYP1A2. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
Laboratory research shows that feverfew might inhibit CYP2C19. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C8 (Cyp2C8) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C8.
Laboratory research shows that feverfew might inhibit CYP2C8. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
Laboratory research shows that feverfew might inhibit CYP2C9. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Laboratory research shows that feverfew might inhibit CYP2D6. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, feverfew might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Laboratory research shows that feverfew might inhibit CYP3A4. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Feverfew: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Feverfew is a daisy-family herb best known for migraine prevention, where some studies suggest it may modestly lower how often migraines occur, though the evidence is mixed. It is generally well tolerated for short-term use in most adults but should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding and by people allergic to ragweed and related plants. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor before starting it.

Feverfew
Scientific name
Tanacetum parthenium
Family
Asteraceae
Part used
Leaves (dried or fresh); sometimes whole above-ground parts
Common forms
Capsules, tablets, dried leaf, liquid extracts, teas
People commonly use it for
  • Migraine prevention
  • Headache
  • Fever (traditional)
  • Arthritis and joint pain
  • Menstrual discomfort

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

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Generally well tolerated short-term, but it can cause allergic reactions and mouth irritation in some people.

PregnancyPossibly Unsafe

When used orally. Feverfew might cause uterine contractions and abortion; avoid using.

Read the full pregnancy detail
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

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a flowering plant in the daisy family. It is native to parts of Europe and Asia and now grows in many regions around the world. The plant has small, daisy-like flowers and a strong scent, and the leaves are the part most often used in supplements.

People have used feverfew for hundreds of years. As its name suggests, it was once used to help bring down fevers, but today it is most often taken to help prevent migraine headaches. It is also used in traditional medicine for general headaches, joint pain, and menstrual discomfort.

Feverfew is sold as capsules, tablets, dried leaf, liquid extracts, and teas. Many products are standardized to contain a set amount of a compound called parthenolide, which is thought to be one of its active ingredients.

How it works

Feverfew contains several plant compounds, with parthenolide being the most discussed. Laboratory and animal studies suggest parthenolide and related substances may affect chemicals in the body involved in inflammation and in the widening and tightening of blood vessels, such as serotonin and prostaglandins.

Because blood vessel changes and inflammation are thought to play a role in migraines, researchers believe feverfew might work by calming these processes. However, much of this is based on lab and animal research, and scientists do not fully understand exactly how feverfew works in people.

Effectiveness

Does Feverfew work?

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

Evidence overview · 4 uses evaluated
4 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 Feverfew, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 4 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Prurigo nodularis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical feverfew is beneficial for patients with this skin condition.

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

Although there has been interest in using oral feverfew for psoriasis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of feverfew for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral feverfew is beneficial for patients with RA.

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

Oral feverfew 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

For most adults, feverfew appears to be reasonably well tolerated when used short-term. Still, there are important cautions.

Feverfew is in the same plant family as ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies. If you are allergic to any of these plants, you may also react to feverfew and should avoid it. People scheduled for surgery may want to stop it beforehand because of possible effects on bleeding; check with your doctor.

Pregnancy: Avoid feverfew during pregnancy. It may stimulate the uterus, and its safety has not been established. Breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable information, so it is best to avoid it while nursing. Feverfew has not been well studied in children. As always, talk to your pharmacist or doctor before starting it, especially if you take other medications or have a health condition.

Side effects

Feverfew is usually well tolerated, but side effects can include stomach upset, nausea, bloating, and gas. When the fresh leaves are chewed, feverfew can cause mouth sores, mouth irritation, and swelling of the lips or tongue.

Some people who stop taking feverfew suddenly after using it for a long time report a "post-feverfew" effect with headaches, anxiety, tiredness, and muscle stiffness. To lower this risk, it may help to reduce the dose slowly rather than stopping all at once. Allergic reactions are also possible, especially in people sensitive to ragweed and related plants.

Feverfew: Reported Adverse Effects

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

Orally, feverfew is generally well tolerated. Chewing fresh feverfew leaves is more likely to cause mouth ulceration and other adverse effects of the mouth, lips, and tongue when compared with commercial feverfew preparations.

Most Common Adverse Effects:

Orally: Abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, heartburn, and nausea. Skin rash may occur in sensitive individuals.

Topically: Dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

Reports by condition
Anxiety Neurologic/CNS

Discontinuation of oral feverfew after long-term use may cause "post-feverfew syndrome", which includes symptoms such as anxiety, headaches, and insomnia.

  1. Johnson ES, Kadam NP, Hylands DM, Hylands PJ. Efficacy of feverfew as prophylactic treatment of migraine. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1985;291:569-73.
  2. Pittler MH, Ernst E. Feverfew for preventing migraine. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2004;(1):CD002286.
Constipation Gastrointestinal

Orally, feverfew can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain and bloating, and flatulence. Oral numbness has also been reported when feverfew has been taken sublingually in combination with ginger. The traditional method of feverfew administration-chewing fresh feverfew leaves-can result in mouth ulceration, inflamed oral mucosa and tongue, swelling of the lips, and occasionally, loss of taste. Mouth ulceration might result from direct contact with feverfew leaves during chewing, possibly attributable to the sesquiterpene lactone constituent. Some researchers suggest that mouth ulceration is a systemic effect, but one study using dried feverfew capsules reported a higher incidence of mouth ulcers in subjects taking placebo than feverfew.

  1. Cady RK, Goldstein J, Nett R, et al. A double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study of sublingual feverfew and ginger (LipiGesic M) in the treatment of migraine. Headache 2011;51:1078-86.
  2. Johnson ES, Kadam NP, Hylands DM, Hylands PJ. Efficacy of feverfew as prophylactic treatment of migraine. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1985;291:569-73.
Dermatitis Dermatologic

Orally, feverfew can cause skin rash. Topically, allergic contact dermatitis can occur. Allergic reactions to feverfew may be more likely in individuals sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family. Members of this family include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many other herbs.

  1. Ernst E, Pittler MH. The efficacy and safety of feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.): an update of a systematic review. Public Health Nutr 2000;3:509-14.
  2. Lamminpaa A, Estlander T, Jolanki R, Kanerva L. Occupational allergic contact dermatitis caused by decorative plants. Contact Dermatitis 1996;34:330-5.
  3. Jovanovic, M. and Poljacki, M. [Compositae dermatitis]. Med Pregl. 2003;56(1-2):43-49.
  4. Burry, J. N. Compositae dermatitis in South Australia: contact dermatitis from Chrysanthemum parthenium. Contact Dermatitis 1980;6(6):445.
Myasthenia gravis Genitourinary

Orally, feverfew has been associated with menstrual changes in one patient in a clinical study and in one case report involving a 36-year-old patient taking 800 mg of feverfew three times daily for 3 months.

  1. Johnson ES, Kadam NP, Hylands DM, Hylands PJ. Efficacy of feverfew as prophylactic treatment of migraine. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1985;291:569-73.
  2. Alenzi KA, Alharbi FH, Tawhari FM, Fradees GS. Alteration of Coagulation Test Results and Vaginal Bleeding Associated With the Use of Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium). J Med Cases 2021;12(1):9-12.
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 single official or proven dose for feverfew, and products vary widely in strength and how they are prepared. Many supplements are standardized to a certain amount of parthenolide, but the best dose is not firmly established.

The safest approach is to follow the directions on the product label and not take more than recommended. Because products differ so much, it is a good idea to ask your pharmacist or doctor for guidance before starting, and to choose products from reputable brands. If you have used feverfew for a while, do not stop it suddenly without checking first.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Feverfew & Pregnancy

Possibly Unsafe

When used orally. Feverfew might cause uterine contractions and abortion; avoid using.

  1. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.

Feverfew & 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 Feverfew 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. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  2. Awang DVC. Prescribing therapeutic feverfew (Tancetum pathrnium (L.) Schultz Bip., syn. Chrysanthemumparthenium (L.) Bernh). Int Med 1998;1:11-3.
  3. Heptinstall S, Groenewegen WA, Spangenberg P, Loesche W. Extracts of feverfew may inhibit platelet behaviour via neutralization of sulphydryl groups. J Pharm Pharmacol 1987;39:459-65. PubMed
  4. Heptinstall S, White A, Williamson L, Mitchell JR. Extracts of feverfew inhibit granule secretion in blood platelets and polymorphonuclear leucocytes. Lancet 1985;1:1071-4. PubMed
  5. Makheja AN, Bailey JM. A platelet phospholipase inhibitor from the medicinal herb feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium). Prostaglandins Leukot Med 1982;8:653-60.
  6. Groenewegen WA, Heptinstall S. A comparison of the effects of an extract of feverfew and parthenolide, a component of feverfew, on human platelet activity in-vitro. J Pharm Pharmacol 1990;42:553-7. PubMed
  7. Heptinstall S, Groenewegen WA, Spangenberg P, Losche W. Inhibition of platelet behaviour by feverfew: a mechanism of action involving sulphydryl groups. Folia Haematol Int Mag Klin Morphol Blutforsch 1988;115:447-9.
  8. Biggs MJ, Johnson ES, Persaud NP, Ratcliffe DM. Platelet aggregation in patients using feverfew for migraine. Lancet 1982;2:776. PubMed
  9. Lamminpaa A, Estlander T, Jolanki R, Kanerva L. Occupational allergic contact dermatitis caused by decorative plants. Contact Dermatitis 1996;34:330-5. PubMed
  10. Johnson ES, Kadam NP, Hylands DM, Hylands PJ. Efficacy of feverfew as prophylactic treatment of migraine. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1985;291:569-73. PubMed
  11. Pittler MH, Ernst E. Feverfew for preventing migraine. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2004;(1):CD002286. PubMed
  12. Ernst E, Pittler MH. The efficacy and safety of feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.): an update of a systematic review. Public Health Nutr 2000;3:509-14.
  13. Unger M, Frank A. Simultaneous determination of the inhibitory potency of herbal extracts on the activity of six major cytochrome P450 enzymes using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry and automated online extraction. Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom 2004;1 PubMed
  14. Sil'vestrov VP, Kinitin AV, and Chesnokova, IV. [Immunological and metabolic disorders and the means for their correction in patients with chronic bronchitis]. Ter.Arkh. 1991;63:7-11.
  15. Cady RK, Goldstein J, Nett R, et al. A double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study of sublingual feverfew and ginger (LipiGesic M) in the treatment of migraine. Headache 2011;51:1078-86.
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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 Feverfew

168 brands in our database make a supplement containing Feverfew.

Product directory

Supplement products with Feverfew

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

Niacin by Nature's Sunshine Tablet Or Pill 90 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions NutriZAC by NaturesPlus Herbal Actives Tablet Or Pill 90 Bi-Layered Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Physical Motivation by Herb Stop Capsule 300 Veggie Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Red Skin Relief by Crystal Star Capsule 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Relief by Weyland Brain Nutrition Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Respiratory Formula by SigmaCeutical Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Respiratory Support by Fortify Capsule 30 Vegetable Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Respire by Revolution Science Capsule 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Rest Well Tasty Minty Flavour Spray by Higher Nature Liquid 13.5 mL View ingredients & interactions Rheumatic Fever Support by TerraVita Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions Rheumatic Fever Support 450 mg by TerraVita Premium Collection Capsule 100 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Rheumatic Fever Support Chocolate Flavor by TerraVita Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions Rheumatic Fever Support Mint Flavor by TerraVita Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions Rheumatic Fever Support Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection Powder 1 Ounce(s) View ingredients & interactions Rheumatic Fever Support Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection Powder 4 Ounce(s) View ingredients & interactions Rheumatic Fever Support Strawberry Flavor by TerraVita Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions Rheumatic Fever Support Vanilla Flavor by TerraVita Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL View ingredients & interactions Sciatic Ease by Signature Supplements Capsule 100 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Single Herbs Feverfew Leaf & Flower by Gaia Herbs Single Herbs Capsule 60 Vegetarian Liquid Phyto-Cap(s)(TM) View ingredients & interactions Standardized Feverfew by Nature's Way Capsule 60 Veg. Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Standardized Feverfew Leaf Extract by Bluebonnet Capsule 60 Vcap(s) View ingredients & interactions Stop AKE by Christopher's Original Formulas Capsule 100 Vegetarian Cap(s) View ingredients & interactions Stress Release by Herb Stop Capsule 300 Veggie Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Stress-J by Nature's Sunshine Capsule 100 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Feverfew: Common Questions

What is Feverfew used for, and does it work?
People use Feverfew 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 Feverfew interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 929 medications with a known interaction with Feverfew. Use the checker above to see how Feverfew interacts with a specific drug.
How are Feverfew 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 Feverfew 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 Feverfew 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 Feverfew most commonly used for?
It is most often used to try to prevent migraine headaches. It has also traditionally been used for fever, general headaches, joint pain, and menstrual discomfort, though the evidence for these uses is weak.
Does Feverfew really help with migraines?
Some studies suggest it may help reduce how often migraines occur, but the results are mixed and the evidence is not strong. It may help some people, but it is not guaranteed to work and should not replace treatments your doctor recommends.
Is Feverfew safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No. Feverfew should be avoided during pregnancy because it may stimulate the uterus, and it should also be avoided while breastfeeding due to a lack of safety information.
Can Feverfew cause side effects?
Yes. It can cause stomach upset, and chewing the fresh leaves may cause mouth sores or irritation. Stopping it suddenly after long-term use may trigger headaches and other symptoms, so it is best to taper off slowly.

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

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Products that contain Feverfew

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

See all 520 products with Feverfew →
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