Herb & supplement monograph

Hops Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

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

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

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Hops 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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Hops 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 Hops drug interaction appears low for most people. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and the great majority are minor and based on theory rather than proven effects in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The combinations most worth knowing about involve sedative medications and estrogens. Animal research suggests hops may have calming effects of its own, so taking it with sleep aids or other drugs that slow the nervous system could, in theory, add to drowsiness. Hops also contains plant compounds that can attach to estrogen receptors in lab studies, so large amounts might interfere with hormone replacement therapy, though most hops products contain very little of these compounds. Neither concern has been confirmed in human studies.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of interacting medications does not mean each combination is harmful. Most entries are theoretical, based on lab or animal findings that hops might affect enzymes the body uses to clear certain medications. Notably, when researchers tested a standardized hops extract in people, the predicted enzyme effects did not produce meaningful changes in drug levels.

Check your medications against Hops

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

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Hops

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

2,830 drugs
AcepromazineAtravet
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acepromazine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine PhosphatePhrenilin #3
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, OpiumHista-Derfule
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone, CodeineAcetazone Forte C8, Parafon Forte C8
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, CodeineTylenol No.3, Tylenol w/ Codeine
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Codeine, DoxylamineMersyndol
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Codeine, Doxylamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Codeine, MethocarbamolAcetaminophen, Codeine, Methocarbamol, Robaxacet 8
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Codeine, Methocarbamol interaction
Acetaminophen, Dichloralantipyrine, IsomethepteneAmidrine, Midchlor, Migquin, Migratine
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Dichloralantipyrine, Isometheptene interaction
Acetaminophen, Dichloralphenazone, IsomethepteneMidrin
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Dichloralphenazone, Isometheptene interaction
Acetaminophen, Dichlorophenazone, IsometheptaneIsocom
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Dichlorophenazone, Isometheptane interaction
Acetaminophen, DiphenhydramineTylenol PM, Tylenol PM Ex Strength
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine interaction
Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Allergy, Cold Control, Contac Night Allergy Relief
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, HydrocodoneAnexsia, Anodynos DHC, Azdone, Co-Gesic, Doucet, Lorcet +9 more
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Hydrocodone interaction
Acetaminophen, MeperidineDemerol APAP
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Meperidine interaction
Acetaminophen, OxycodonePercocet, Roxicet, Tylox, Xartemis XR
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Oxycodone interaction
Acetaminophen, PentazocineTalacen
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Pentazocine interaction
Acetaminophen, PropoxypheneDarvocet-N 100, Darvocet-N 50, E-Lor, Wygesic
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetaminophen, Propoxyphene interaction
AcetazolamideAk-Zol, Diamox
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Acetazolamide interaction Acetazolamide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AlfentanilAlfenta
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Alfentanil interaction
AlprazolamNiravam, Xanax
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Alprazolam interaction Alprazolam drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #2
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interaction
AminoglutethimideCytadren
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Aminoglutethimide interaction
Aminophylline, Amobarbital, EphedrineAmesec
Moderate Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.

Read the full Hops + Aminophylline, Amobarbital, Ephedrine 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 Hops 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 Hops affects

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

All 4 drug categories Hops interacts with
Cns DepressantsEstrogensCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) SubstratesCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.
Some animal research shows that hops has sedative effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of hops might interfere with hormone replacement therapy due to competition for estrogen receptors.
In vitro research suggests that certain hops constituents can competitively bind to estrogen receptors. However, most hops extracts contain very small amounts of these constituents.

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

Hops extract does not seem to affect the metabolism of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that flavonoid constituents of hops inhibit CYP1A2 enzyme activity. However, a pharmacokinetic study in healthy postmenopausal patients shows that taking a standardized extract of spent hops containing prenylated phenols, as 59.5 mg twice daily for 2 weeks, does not affect levels of caffeine, a CYP1A2 probe substrate.

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

Theoretically, hops extract might alter metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates; however, this effect may not be clinically significant.
Animal research suggests that specific constituents of hops, called lupulones, can induce hepatic CYP3A4 enzyme activity. However, a pharmacokinetic study in healthy postmenopausal patients with normal metabolism shows that taking a standardized extract of spent hops containing prenylated phenols, as 59.5 mg twice daily for 2 weeks, decreases the concentration of alprazolam, a CYP3A4 probe substrate, by 7.6%. This reduction is unlikely to be clinically relevant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Hops: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Hops are most often used for sleep and mild anxiety, frequently combined with valerian, but the human evidence is limited and not very strong. They are generally well tolerated when used short-term, though they may cause drowsiness, and should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding because their safety is unknown.

Hops
Scientific name
Humulus lupulus
Family
Cannabaceae
Part used
Female flowers (cones or strobiles) and their extracts
Common forms
Capsules, tablets, tinctures, teas, dried flowers, and combination sleep formulas (often with valerian)
People commonly use it for
  • Sleep problems and insomnia
  • Anxiety and restlessness
  • Menopausal symptoms
  • Mild digestive complaints
  • Flavoring in beer and food

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 may cause drowsiness; long-term safety is not well studied.

PregnancyBest avoided

Not enough safety information; best avoided during pregnancy.

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

Hops are the female flowers, also called cones or strobiles, of the hop plant (Humulus lupulus). The plant is a climbing vine in the Cannabaceae family. It is native to Europe but is now grown in many parts of the world.

Hops are best known for giving beer its bitter flavor and aroma. Beyond brewing, the dried flowers and their extracts have a long history of use in traditional remedies, most often to help with sleep and restlessness.

Today, hops are sold as a dietary supplement in capsules, teas, tinctures, and combination products. They are very commonly paired with valerian in sleep formulas.

How it works

Hops contain several active compounds, including bitter acids (such as humulone and lupulone), essential oils, and flavonoids. One flavonoid, 8-prenylnaringenin, is one of the strongest plant estrogens known, which may explain interest in hops for menopause.

For sleep and relaxation, researchers think certain hops compounds may act on brain signaling pathways involved in calming the nervous system. Much of this work comes from laboratory and animal studies, so we cannot be certain how strongly these effects apply to people.

Hops also have antioxidant and possible antimicrobial properties in test-tube studies, but these laboratory findings do not prove a benefit in the human body.

Effectiveness

Does Hops work?

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

Evidence overview · 15 uses evaluated
15 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 Hops, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 15 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Age-related cognitive decline
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral hops-derived bitter acids are beneficial for memory and attention in patients with age-related cognitive decline.

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

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

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

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

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

Although there is interest in using topical hops to reduce body odor, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hops for this purpose.

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

Although there is interest in using oral hops-derived bitter acids for dyspepsia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hops for this condition.

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

Taking oral hops extract in combination with valerian root extract seems to be modestly beneficial in patients with insomnia. However, the effect of hops extract when used alone is unclear.

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

Although there is interest in using oral hops for increasing lactation, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hops for this purpose.

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

It is unclear if oral hops extract is beneficial in patients with menopausal symptoms.

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

It is unclear if administering bitter hops extract intraduodenally or intragastrically is beneficial in patients with obesity.

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

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

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Psychological well-being
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if drinking non-alcoholic beer containing matured hops bitter acids is beneficial in healthy adults.

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

It is unclear if topical hops gel is beneficial in patients with postmenopausal vaginal atrophy.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Shift work disorder
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if drinking non-alcoholic beer containing hops is beneficial in patients with shift work disorder.

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

Topical hops extract has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

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

Although there is interest in using topical hops for venous leg ulcers, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of hops for this condition.

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

Hops are generally considered well tolerated when used short-term in typical supplement amounts. Because hops can cause drowsiness, use caution if you need to drive or operate machinery, and be careful combining it with anything else that makes you sleepy.

People with hormone-sensitive conditions (such as certain breast, uterine, or ovarian cancers, or endometriosis) should be cautious because of the plant's estrogen-like compounds, and should ask their doctor first. People with depression should also use caution given hops' sedative effects.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable safety information, and hops contain estrogen-like compounds, so it is best to avoid hops supplements during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Stop using hops at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery because of its sedative effects, and let your surgical team know what you take.

Side effects

The most common side effect is drowsiness or sleepiness. Some people may notice dizziness.

Handling fresh hops plants can cause skin or eye irritation and, in rare cases, allergic reactions. People allergic to hops or related plants should avoid them.

Serious side effects are uncommon with normal supplement use, but stop and seek medical care if you have signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling, or trouble breathing.

Hops: Reported Adverse Effects

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

Reports by condition
Acute bronchitis Pulmonary/Respiratory

Occupational exposure to dust from hops, usually in combination with dust from other products, is associated with chronic respiratory symptoms such as dry cough, dyspnea, chronic bronchitis, and other occupational respiratory diseases.

  1. Skorska, C., Mackiewicz, B., Gora, A., Golec, M., and Dutkiewicz, J. Health effects of inhalation exposure to organic dust in hops farmers. Ann.Univ Mariae.Curie Sklodowska [Med] 2003;58(1):459-465.
  2. Godnic-Cvar, J., Zuskin, E., Mustajbegovic, J., Schachter, E. N., Kanceljak, B., Macan, J., Ilic, Z., and Ebling, Z. Respiratory and immunological findings in brewery workers. Am J Ind Med 1999;35(1):68-75.
Bleeding Genitourinary

Orally, supplements containing hops and soy have been associated with 4 cases of postmenopausal bleeding. It is unclear if this effect is due to hops, soy, or the combination. Also, menstrual disturbances have been reported in female workers harvesting hops.

  1. van Hunsel, F. P. and Kampschoer, P. [Postmenopausal bleeding and dietary supplements: a possible causal relationship with hop- and soy-containing preparations]. Ned.Tijdschr.Geneeskd. 2012;156(41):A5095.
  2. Milligan SR, Kalita JC, Heyerick A, et al. Identification of a potent phytoestrogen in hops (Humulus lupulus L.) and beer. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1999;84:2249-52..
  3. Fenselau, C. and Talalay, P. Is oestrogenic activity present in hops? Food Cosmet.Toxicol. 1973;11(4):597-602.
Dermatitis Dermatologic

Topically, allergic reactions have been reported after contact with the fresh hops plant and plant dust. Contact dermatitis is attributed to the pollen.

  1. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Philpson JD. Herbal Medicine: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London, UK: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.
  2. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  3. Assessment report on Humulus lupulus L., flos. European Medicines Agency, 2014. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-report/final-assessment-report-humulus-lupulus-l-flos_en.pdf. Accessed September 29, 2021.
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 standardized dose for hops, and products vary widely in strength and form. Many sleep products combine hops with valerian, which makes a single recommended dose hard to define.

The safest approach is to follow the directions on the product label and not exceed them. Because formulations differ, check with a pharmacist or doctor before starting, especially if you take other medicines or have a health condition. For sleep aids, short-term use is generally preferred over long-term daily use.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Hops & 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 15 references that drive our Hops 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. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Philpson JD. Herbal Medicine: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London, UK: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.
  2. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  3. Zava DT, Dollbaum CM, Blen M. Estrogen and progestin bioactivity of foods, herbs, and spices. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med 1998;217:369-78. PubMed
  4. Milligan SR, Kalita JC, Heyerick A, et al. Identification of a potent phytoestrogen in hops (Humulus lupulus L.) and beer. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1999;84:2249-52.. PubMed
  5. Milligan SR, Kalita JC, Pocock V, et al. The endocrine activities of 8-prenylnaringenin and related hop (Humulus lupulus L.) flavonoids. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2000;85:4912-5.. DOI
  6. Henderson MC, Miranda CL, Stevens JF, et al. In vitro inhibition of human P450 enzymes by prenylated flavonoids from hops, Humulus lupulus. Xenobiotica 2000;30:235-51.. PubMed
  7. Mannering, G. J., Shoeman, J. A., and Deloria, L. B. Identification of the antibiotic hops component, colupulone, as an inducer of hepatic cytochrome P-4503A in the mouse. Drug Metab Dispos 1992;20(2):142-147. DOI
  8. Skorska, C., Mackiewicz, B., Gora, A., Golec, M., and Dutkiewicz, J. Health effects of inhalation exposure to organic dust in hops farmers. Ann.Univ Mariae.Curie Sklodowska [Med] 2003;58(1):459-465.
  9. Schiller, H., Forster, A., Vonhoff, C., Hegger, M., Biller, A., and Winterhoff, H. Sedating effects of Humulus lupulus L. extracts. Phytomedicine. 2006;13(8):535-541. PubMed
  10. van Hunsel, F. P. and Kampschoer, P. [Postmenopausal bleeding and dietary supplements: a possible causal relationship with hop- and soy-containing preparations]. Ned.Tijdschr.Geneeskd. 2012;156(41):A5095.
  11. Fenselau, C. and Talalay, P. Is oestrogenic activity present in hops? Food Cosmet.Toxicol. 1973;11(4):597-602. PubMed
  12. Godnic-Cvar, J., Zuskin, E., Mustajbegovic, J., Schachter, E. N., Kanceljak, B., Macan, J., Ilic, Z., and Ebling, Z. Respiratory and immunological findings in brewery workers. Am J Ind Med 1999;35(1):68-75. DOI
  13. Lee KM, Jung JS, Song DK, and et al. Effects of Humulus lupulus extract on the central nervous system in mice. Planta Med 1993;59(Suppl):A691.
  14. Assessment report on Humulus lupulus L., flos. European Medicines Agency, 2014. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-report/final-assessment-report-humulus-lupulus-l-flos_en.pdf. Accessed September 29, 2021.
  15. van Breemen RB, Chen L, Tonsing-Carter A, et al. Pharmacokinetic Interactions of a Hop Dietary Supplement with Drug Metabolism in Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women. J Agric Food Chem. 2020;68(18):5212-5220. 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 Hops

377 brands in our database make a supplement containing Hops.

Product directory

Supplement products with Hops

1,334 products in our database contain Hops. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

3 Stress Relief by Renew Life Capsule 30 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 3 Stress Relief by Renew Life Capsule 30 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 5-HTP Plus by OL Olympian Labs, Inc. Capsule 30 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 5-Hydroxy Gaba by Priority One Nutritional Supplements Capsule 90 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 5-Hydroxy Gaba by Priority One Nutritional Supplements Capsule 45 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 8Hr Sleep with Melatonin by 8 Hour Sleep Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions A.Vogel Valerian Complex by Bioforce Liquid 1.7 fl. Oz. · 50 mL View ingredients & interactions Active Man's Formula by Vitabase Tablet Or Pill 90 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Acute Phase by Metagenics Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 9 Packet(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced Complex Kalm-Assure by Natures Plus Tablet Or Pill 60 Bi-Layered Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced Complex Kalm-Assure by Natures Plus Tablet Or Pill 60 Bi-Layered Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced Sleep Formula by Thrive Naturals Capsule 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Advanced Sleep Support by The Vitamin Shoppe Capsule 60 Veggie Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Ageless Mind by Source Naturals Tablet Or Pill 30 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Ageless Mind by Source Naturals Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Ageless Mind by Source Naturals Tablet Or Pill 120 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions All Man by Higher Nature Capsule 90 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Alteril All Natural Sleep Aid with L-Tryptophan by Global Product Management Tablet Or Pill 30 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alteril Natural Sleep Aid by Alteril Tablet Or Pill 60 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Alteril Natural Sleep Aid by Alteril Tablet Or Pill 30 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions Animal PM by Animal Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 30 Pack(s) View ingredients & interactions Anxietex PM by Approved Science Capsule 30 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Anxiety Balance by Priority One Nutritional Supplements Capsule 45 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Anxiety Balance by Priority One Nutritional Supplements Capsule 90 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions
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Hops: Common Questions

What is Hops used for, and does it work?
People use Hops 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 Hops interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 863 medications with a known interaction with Hops. Use the checker above to see how Hops interacts with a specific drug.
How are Hops 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 Hops 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 Hops 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 are Hops mainly used for?
Hops are most often used to help with sleep problems and mild anxiety or restlessness, frequently in combination with valerian. They are also used for menopausal symptoms, though the evidence for these uses is limited.
Do Hops actually help you sleep?
Some small studies suggest Hops, often combined with valerian, may modestly improve sleep, but the evidence is weak and not conclusive. They are not a proven treatment for insomnia.
Can I take Hops if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. There isn't enough safety information, and Hops contain estrogen-like compounds, so it's best to avoid Hops supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Will taking Hops make me drowsy?
It can. The most common effect is sleepiness, so use caution when driving or doing tasks that need alertness, and talk to your pharmacist before combining it with other sedating products.

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

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Products that contain Hops

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

See all 1,334 products with Hops →
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