Herb & supplement monograph

Jalap Drug Interactions, Uses, Safety & More

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

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

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Jalap 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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Jalap 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 Jalap drug interaction is moderate, mainly because jalap's strong laxative and fluid-shifting effects can add to the effects of certain medications. A meaningful share of the listed interactions are rated major, and most of the rest are moderate, though many rest on predicted effects rather than confirmed human studies.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The best-documented concern is combining jalap with other stimulant laxatives, since the added laxative effect can drain fluids and electrolytes from the body. Potassium loss is the thread running through several other concerns: it could raise the risk of toxicity with digoxin and worsen potassium depletion from water pills such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide. People taking warfarin should also avoid heavy use, because diarrhea from jalap could raise INR and bleeding risk. Jalap may also reduce how the body clears lithium, though this is a smaller concern.

What the rest of the list means

A long list of interacting medications does not mean every combination is harmful. Apart from the laxative concern, most of these interactions are theoretical, predicted from jalap's diuretic and laxative effects rather than shown in people, and they matter mainly with heavy or prolonged use.

Check your medications against Jalap

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

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Jalap

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

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

2,830 drugs
ArmodafinilNuvigil› BisacodylDulcolax, Gentlax› Bisacodyl, DocusateDulcolax Laxative Tabs› CasanthranolDoxidan Liquid Gels› Casanthranol, DocusateDoxidan› Casanthranol, Docusate PotassiumDialose Plus› Casanthranol, Docusate SodiumPeri-Colace› Castor Oil (otc Drug)Purge› Danthron , DocusateCo-Danthrusate (UK)› Dehydrocholic AcidDecholin› Dehydrocholic Acid , DocusateBilax› Docusate Calcium, PhenolphthaleinDoxidan (Canadian)› Docusate Sodium, PhenolphthaleinCorrectol, Modane Plus› Docusate Sodium, Sennosides (otc Drug)Senokot-S› Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug)Milk of Magnesia (MOM)› PhenolphthaleinEvac-Q-Tab, Modane, Modane Mild› Psyllium , Senna (otc Drug)Perdiem› Psyllium Hydrophilic Mucilloid , Senna (otc Drug)Prodiem Plus› Psyllium Hydrophilic Mucilloid , Sennosides (otc Drug)Prompt› Sennosides (otc Drug)Senokot, Senokot XTRA› Sodium Picosulfate, Citric Acid, Magnesium Oxide (otc Drug)Pico-Salax› Acetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual› Acetaminophen, Pamabrom, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength PMS, Pamprin, Pamprin ES› AcetazolamideAk-Zol, Diamox› Amiloride, HydrochlorothiazideAmil-Co, Amilzide, Moduret 25, Moduretic› Ammonium ChlorideAmmonium Chloride› Atenolol, ChlortalidoneAtenixCo, Tenoret 50, Totaretic› Atenolol, ChlorthalidoneTenoretic› Azilsartan, ChlorthalidoneEdarbyclor› Benazepril, HydrochlorothiazideLotensin HCT›
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 Jalap 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 Jalap affects

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

All 5 drug categories Jalap interacts with
Stimulant LaxativesDigoxin (lanoxin)Diuretic DrugsWarfarin (coumadin)Lithium
Stimulant Laxatives

Jalap has stimulant laxative effects. Concomitant use of jalap with other laxatives may lead to electrolyte and fluid depletion.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Jalap has diuretic and stimulant laxative effects. Theoretically, overuse or abuse of jalap might increase potassium depletion and increase the risk for toxicity with cardiac glycoside drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Diuretic Drugs

Jalap has diuretic effects. Overuse of jalap might compound diuretic-induced potassium loss. There is some concern that people taking jalap along with potassium depleting diuretics might have an increased risk for hypokalemia.
Some diuretics that can deplete potassium include chlorothiazide (Diuril), chlorthalidone (Thalitone), furosemide (Lasix), hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ, Hydrodiuril, Microzide), and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Jalap has stimulant laxative effects. In some people jalap can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea can increase the effects of warfarin, increase international normalized ratio (INR), and increase the risk of bleeding. Advise patients who take warfarin not to take excessive amounts of jalap.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lithium

Jalap has diuretic effects. Theoretically, due to these potential diuretic effects, jalap might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium. The dose of lithium might need to be decreased.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Jalap: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Jalap is a powerful traditional laxative made from the root of a Mexican morning-glory plant. It is rarely used today because it can cause violent diarrhea, cramping, and dehydration, and safer laxatives are available. It is not recommended for routine self-treatment, and pregnant or breastfeeding people should avoid it.

Scientific name
Ipomoea purga
Family
Convolvulaceae
Part used
Dried tuberous root (and the resin extracted from it)
Common forms
Dried root powder, resin, tinctures, and historically as a component of laxative preparations
People commonly use it for
  • Constipation
  • Strong laxative ('purgative') effect
  • Traditional remedy to 'clear out' the bowels
  • Historical use in folk medicine

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

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Jalap is a harsh purgative that can cause severe cramping and dehydration, so it is generally not recommended.

PregnancyBest avoided

Strong laxatives like jalap may stimulate the gut and should be avoided during pregnancy.

BreastfeedingUnsafe

When used orally. Jalap can be a menstrual stimulant; 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

Jalap is a traditional herbal medicine made from the dried tuberous root of Ipomoea purga, a climbing morning-glory plant native to Mexico. The plant grows in the highland regions around Veracruz, and the name comes from the city of Xalapa (Jalapa).

The root contains a sticky resin that was historically valued as a strong laxative, or "purgative." In the past it was a common ingredient in laxative pills and powders. Today it is rarely used because gentler and safer laxatives are widely available.

Uses & effectiveness

People have traditionally used jalap to relieve constipation and to produce a forceful bowel movement. It was once considered a powerful "clean-out" remedy.

There is little to no modern, high-quality clinical research supporting the use of jalap for any health condition. Its reputation as a laxative comes mostly from long historical and folk use rather than from well-designed studies. Because it works so aggressively and can cause harsh side effects, it is no longer a recommended way to treat constipation.

How it works

The laxative action of jalap is mainly due to a group of resin compounds (sometimes called convolvulin and related glycoside resins). These substances irritate the lining of the intestine and strongly stimulate the bowel to contract and push out its contents.

This is why jalap is classed as a stimulant or drastic purgative — it forces the gut into action rather than gently softening stool. Much of what is known about these compounds comes from older chemistry and basic laboratory work rather than modern controlled human trials.

Safety & precautions

Jalap is a harsh purgative and is not considered safe for routine self-care. Taking it can lead to violent diarrhea, intense abdominal cramps, and loss of fluids and important minerals (electrolytes).

People who should especially avoid it include those with inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal blockage, dehydration, heart or kidney problems, and anyone who is frail or elderly. Children should not take it.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Strong stimulant laxatives can irritate the gut and may be unsafe, so jalap should be avoided during pregnancy. Because its safety has not been studied in nursing mothers, it should also be avoided while breastfeeding. Always talk with a pharmacist or doctor before using any herbal product in these situations.

Side effects

The most common effects are severe diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and nausea. Because it acts so strongly, it can quickly cause dehydration and an imbalance of electrolytes such as potassium.

Overuse or large doses may lead to more serious problems, including significant fluid loss, weakness, dizziness, low blood pressure, and irritation of the intestinal lining. If you ever take a purgative and develop severe pain, bloody stool, or signs of dehydration (very dry mouth, little urine, fainting), seek medical care right away.

Dosing

There is no established, standardized modern dose for jalap, and it is not recommended for general use. Because the resin is so potent, even small differences in amount can cause harsh effects.

If you encounter a product containing jalap, follow the product label exactly and do not exceed it. More importantly, check with a pharmacist or doctor first — in nearly all cases there are safer, better-studied options for constipation.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Jalap & Breastfeeding

Unsafe

When used orally. Jalap can be a menstrual stimulant; avoid using.

  1. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
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 1 references that drive our Jalap 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. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
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 Jalap

1 brand in our database make a supplement containing Jalap.

Product directory

Supplement products with Jalap

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

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Jalap: Common Questions

Does Jalap interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 100 medications with a known interaction with Jalap, including 21 rated major. Use the checker above to see how Jalap interacts with a specific drug.
How are Jalap 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 Jalap 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 Jalap 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 Jalap used for?
Jalap was traditionally used as a strong laxative to relieve constipation and force a bowel movement. It is rarely used today because safer laxatives are available.
Is Jalap safe to take?
Jalap is a harsh purgative that can cause severe diarrhea, cramping, and dehydration, so it is generally not recommended for self-treatment. Talk to a pharmacist or doctor before considering it.
Can I take Jalap during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No. Strong stimulant laxatives like Jalap should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding because of possible risks and a lack of safety data.
Why isn't Jalap used much anymore?
Its laxative effect is too strong and unpredictable, often causing violent diarrhea and dehydration. Modern, gentler laxatives are safer and more reliable.

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

Keep exploring

Products that contain Jalap

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

See all 4 products with Jalap →
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