Herb & supplement monograph
Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More
What is this page for?
First and foremost: how Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.
But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) 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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Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line
From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026Based on the available evidence, Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) drug interactions can be clinically significant, because every documented interaction is rated major and involves medicines whose effects PABA may block. All of the listed interactions are rated major, and human research supports them, though the affected medicines fall into just two antibiotic groups.
Interactions deserving the most attention
The concern centers on dapsone and sulfonamide antibiotics, and both interactions are backed by human evidence. Early clinical research shows PABA can blunt the germ-fighting effect of dapsone. Sulfonamide antibiotics work by blocking bacteria from making folic acid out of PABA, so taking extra PABA may let bacteria get around the drug and make the antibiotic less effective. For both groups, the data supports avoiding the combination while these antibiotics are being used.
What the rest of the list means
Check your medications against Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba)
This is a short and focused interaction profile rather than a long theoretical list. If you do not take dapsone or a sulfonamide antibiotic, none of the documented interactions apply to you. The concern here is not about enzymes that clear medications from the body, but about PABA directly working against how these particular antibiotics fight infection.
Based on HelloPharmacist’s Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.
Interaction report
Drugs that interact with Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba)
17 medications have a known interaction with Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba), graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.
17 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 Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba).
Don’t want to scroll the list? Just ask.
Tell us the medications you take and we’ll check each one against Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) using our pharmacist-reviewed interaction data.
AI summaries are generated from our Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) interaction data for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
2,830 drugs
No drugs match “”.
Benazepril, HydrochlorothiazideLotensin HCT
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Benazepril, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionDapsoneAczone, Avlosulfon, Dapsone
Major
Dapsone (avlosulfon)
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and dapsone may decrease the effects of dapsone.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Dapsone interaction Dapsone drug page: uses, dosage & side effectsDoripenemDoribax
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Doripenem interaction Doripenem drug page: uses, dosage & side effectsEnalapril Maleate, HydrochlorothiazideVaseretic
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Enalapril Maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide interaction Enalapril Maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide drug page: uses, dosage & side effectsErythromycin Ethylsuccinate, SulfisoxazolePediazole
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Erythromycin Ethylsuccinate, Sulfisoxazole interactionErythromycin, SulfisoxazoleEryzole
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Erythromycin, Sulfisoxazole interactionFosinopril, HydrochlorothiazideMonopril HCT
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Fosinopril, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionHydrochlorothiazide, MoexiprilUniretic
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Hydrochlorothiazide, Moexipril interactionPhenazopyridine, SulfisoxazoleAzo-Gantrisin
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Phenazopyridine, Sulfisoxazole interactionRetapamulinAltabax, Altargo
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Retapamulin interaction Retapamulin drug page: uses, dosage & side effectsSulfadiazineSulfadiazine
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Sulfadiazine interaction Sulfadiazine drug page: uses, dosage & side effectsSulfadiazine, Sulfamerazine, SulfamethazineTerfonyl, Triple Sulfoid
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Sulfadiazine, Sulfamerazine, Sulfamethazine interactionSulfadiazine, TrimethoprimCoptin
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Sulfadiazine, Trimethoprim interactionSulfamethoxazoleGantanol
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Sulfamethoxazole interactionSulfamethoxazole, TrimethoprimBactrim, Bactrim DS, Bactrim IV, Cotrim, Cotrim DS, Cotrimix +9 more
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Sulfamethoxazole, Trimethoprim interactionSulfisoxazoleGantrisin
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Sulfisoxazole interactionTigecyclineTygacil
Major
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Read the full Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) + Tigecycline interaction Tigecycline drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Read The List Like a Pharmacist
What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean
Severity — How Serious It Can Be
- Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
- Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
- Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
- No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.
Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented
- Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
- Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
- Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
- Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.
Where This Data Comes From
- Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
- Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) 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 Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) affects
Every type of medication (drug category) Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.
All 2 drug categories Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) interacts with
Dapsone (avlosulfon)Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Dapsone (Avlosulfon)
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and dapsone may decrease the effects of dapsone.
Preliminary clinical research shows that PABA inhibits the antibacterial effects of dapsone. Avoid concurrent use.
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Theoretically, concomitant use of PABA and sulfonamide antibiotics inhibits the antibacterial effects of sulfonamide.
Sulfonamide antibiotics competitively inhibit folic acid synthesis from PABA. Excess PABA may overcome the folate depleting effect of the sulfonamides. Avoid concurrent use.
Monograph
Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba): Uses, Safety & Side Effects
The bottom line
PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) is a chemical sometimes taken as a supplement or used in older sunscreens. Evidence supporting its oral use for skin conditions, hair color, and other claims is limited and outdated, and high doses can cause side effects. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before using it.
- Part used
- Not a plant; PABA is a chemical compound (an amino acid-like substance)
- Common forms
- Tablets, capsules, and topical creams or lotions
People commonly use it for
- Skin conditions like vitiligo
- Scleroderma and skin tightening conditions
- Graying hair
- Sunscreen ingredient (older topical products)
- General supplement and 'B-complex' support
Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.
OverallUse caution
Generally tolerated at low doses, but high doses may cause stomach upset and rare liver or other problems.
PregnancyLikely Safe
When used topically and appropriately. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of the oral use of PABA during pregnancy...
Read the full pregnancy detailBreastfeedingLikely Safe
When used topically and appropriately. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of the oral use of PABA during pregnancy...
Read the full breastfeeding detailPregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.
Overview
Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is a chemical compound that is part of the folic acid molecule. It is sometimes grouped with the B vitamins, though it is not officially considered a vitamin for humans. The body and certain bacteria can make small amounts of it.
PABA is found in small amounts in foods like grains, eggs, milk, and organ meats. As a supplement, it is sold in tablet and capsule form. It was also widely used in the past as an active ingredient in sunscreens because it absorbs ultraviolet (UV) light, although it has largely been replaced by other ingredients due to skin irritation and staining concerns.
How it works
PABA absorbs ultraviolet light, which explains its older use in sunscreens applied to the skin. When taken by mouth, the proposed ways it might affect skin and connective tissue are not fully understood.
Some researchers have suggested PABA may influence collagen and connective tissue, which is part of why it was studied for conditions like scleroderma. These ideas come mainly from older laboratory work and small studies, and they have not been clearly proven in humans.
Effectiveness
Does Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) work?
Evidence overview · 11 uses evaluated
1 Effective
1 Possibly effective
1 Leans ineffective
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.
Effective Sunburn
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines
Topical PABA prevents sunburn.
Possibly Effective Peyronie disease
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines
Low quality clinical research shows that oral PABA improves Peyronie disease symptoms.
Possibly Ineffective Scleroderma
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines
Clinical research is conflicting, but suggests that oral PABA is not effective for treating scleroderma.
Also studied for 8 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Aging skin
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines
Although there has been interest in using oral PABA for aging skin, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of PABA for this purpose.
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Constipation
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines
Although there has been interest in using oral PABA for constipation, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of PABA for this purpose.
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Headache
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines
Although there has been interest in using oral PABA for headache, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of PABA for this purpose.
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Herpes keratitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines
Although there has been interest in using ophthalmic PABA for herpes keratitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of PABA for this purpose.
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Infertility
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines
Although there has been interest in using oral PABA for infertility, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of PABA for this purpose.
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Pemphigus
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines
It is unclear if oral PABA is beneficial in patients with pemphigus.
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines
Although there has been interest in using oral PABA for SLE, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of PABA for this purpose.
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Vitiligo
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines
Although there has been interest in using oral PABA for vitiligo, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of PABA for this purpose.
Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.
Safety & precautions
Low doses of PABA are usually tolerated, but high doses can be risky. Large amounts have been linked to nausea, vomiting, skin rash, and, in rare cases, liver problems and low blood sugar.
People with kidney disease or liver disease should be especially cautious and avoid PABA unless a doctor advises otherwise. People with a known allergy to PABA or related compounds (such as some sunscreens or local anesthetics) should not use it.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable safety information for PABA supplements during pregnancy or breastfeeding. To be safe, avoid using it during these times.
Always talk with a pharmacist or doctor before starting PABA, especially if you take other medicines or have a health condition.
Side effects
Common side effects, especially at higher doses, include nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, loss of appetite, and skin rash.
Rare but more serious problems have been reported with large doses, including liver injury, low blood sugar, fever, and skin reactions. Topical PABA can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and staining of clothing. Stop use and seek medical care if you notice signs of an allergic reaction or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba): Reported Adverse Effects
Documented safety reports on Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.
Orally and topically, PABA is generally well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Anorexia, dyspepsia, fever, nausea, rash, vomiting.
Topically: Dermatitis, paradoxical photosensitivity.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Hepatotoxicity.
Anorexia Gastrointestinal
Orally, the most commonly reported side effects of PABA are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, dyspepsia, fever, and rash. PABA should be discontinued if adverse effects prevent the patient from eating. In one report, up to 25% of patients discontinued PABA due to intolerance of side effects.
- Clegg DO, Reading JC, Mayes MD, et al. Comparison of aminobenzoate potassium and placebo in the treatment of scleroderma. J Rheumatol 1994;21:105-10.
- United States Pharmacopeial Convention, Inc., ed. Drug Information for the Health Care Professional. 19th ed. Englewood, CO: Micromedex Inc., 1999.
Dermatitis Dermatologic
Topically, PABA can cause contact dermatitis and sometimes paradoxical photosensitivity.
- Covington TR, et al. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. 11th ed. Washington, DC: American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.
Fever Immunologic
Orally, PABA can cause allergic reactions including fever and skin rash.
Fever Other
Death has been reported in 3 children treated with 24 grams of PABA per day for rheumatic fever or arthritis. At autopsy, all had fatty changes in the liver, kidney, and myocardium. Topical PABA and its derivatives have a tendency to discolor clothing due to a photo-oxidative reaction.
- Worobec S, LaChine A. Dangers of orally administered para-aminobenzoic acid. JAMA 1984;251:2348.
- Taylor, S. E. and Dorris, R. L. Modification of local anesthetic toxicity by vasoconstrictors. Anesth.Prog 1989;36(3):79-87.
Hepatitis Hepatic
Liver toxicity, including fatal hepatitis has been reported in patients taking PABA in high doses (12-48 grams per day). In one case, 12 grams per day for 2 months caused liver toxicity. Increased liver function tests from PABA have also been noted, and jaundice was reported in one case of treatment with PABA. Despite these reports, a study reviewing the charts of 274 patients with scleroderma who were taking the potassium salt form of PABA as treatment found no evidence of hepatotoxicity.
- Kantor GR, Ratz JL. Liver toxicity from potassium para-aminobenzoate. J Am Acad Dermatol 1985;13:671-2.
- Ludwig G. Evaluation of conservative therapeutic approaches to Peyronie's disease (fibrotic induration of the penis). Urol Int 1991;47:236-9.
- Davies, D. M. and Cavanagh, J. Jaundice from potassium p-aminobenzoate. Lancet 4-22-1967;1(7495):896.
- Zarafonetis CJ, Dabich L, DeVol EB, et al. Potassium para-aminobenzoate and liver function test findings. J Am Acad Dermatol 1986;15:144-9.
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.
Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center
Dosing
There is no well-established standard dose of PABA for any condition, and high doses have been associated with toxicity. Some older studies used relatively large amounts under medical supervision, but these are not appropriate for routine self-treatment.
If you choose to use a PABA product, follow the directions on the label and do not exceed the recommended amount. Because high doses carry real risks, it is best to check with your pharmacist or doctor before taking it.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) & Pregnancy
Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) & Breastfeeding
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
© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center
Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center
References & further reading
The 11 references that drive our Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) 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.
- United States Pharmacopeial Convention, Inc., ed. Drug Information for the Health Care Professional. 19th ed. Englewood, CO: Micromedex Inc., 1999.
- Facts and Comparisons staff. Drug Facts and Comparisons. St Louis: Wolters Kluwer Company (updated monthly).
- Covington TR, et al. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. 11th ed. Washington, DC: American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.
- Worobec S, LaChine A. Dangers of orally administered para-aminobenzoic acid. JAMA 1984;251:2348. DOI
- Zarafonetis CJ, Dabich L, DeVol EB, et al. Potassium para-aminobenzoate and liver function test findings. J Am Acad Dermatol 1986;15:144-9. PubMed
- Clegg DO, Reading JC, Mayes MD, et al. Comparison of aminobenzoate potassium and placebo in the treatment of scleroderma. J Rheumatol 1994;21:105-10.
- Ludwig G. Evaluation of conservative therapeutic approaches to Peyronie's disease (fibrotic induration of the penis). Urol Int 1991;47:236-9. PubMed
- Kantor GR, Ratz JL. Liver toxicity from potassium para-aminobenzoate. J Am Acad Dermatol 1985;13:671-2. PubMed
- Wiesel LL, Barritt AS, Stumpe WM. The synergistic action of para-aminobenzoic acid and cortisone in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Am J Med Sci 1951;243-8. DOI
- Taylor, S. E. and Dorris, R. L. Modification of local anesthetic toxicity by vasoconstrictors. Anesth.Prog 1989;36(3):79-87.
- Davies, D. M. and Cavanagh, J. Jaundice from potassium p-aminobenzoate. Lancet 4-22-1967;1(7495):896. PubMed
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
Pharmacist Counseling Corner
Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba): Common Questions
What is Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) used for, and does it work?
People use Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) for many reasons, but the evidence varies by use. According to the Natural Medicines database, there is at least some clinical evidence supporting Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) for Sunburn and Peyronie disease. 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 Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 17 medications with a known interaction with Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba), including 17 rated major. Use the checker above to see how Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) interacts with a specific drug.
How are Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) 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 Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) 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 Para-aminobenzoic Acid (paba) 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 PABA used for?
People take PABA hoping to help skin conditions like vitiligo and scleroderma, or to affect hair color, but the evidence for these uses is limited and weak. It was also used in older sunscreens because it absorbs UV light.
Is PABA a vitamin?
PABA is sometimes grouped with B vitamins and is part of the folic acid molecule, but it is not officially considered an essential vitamin for humans.
Is PABA safe to take?
Low doses are usually tolerated, but high doses can cause nausea, rash, and rarely liver or blood sugar problems. People with kidney or liver disease should avoid it, and you should check with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Can PABA turn gray hair back to its natural color?
This is a popular claim, but it is not supported by good scientific evidence, so PABA should not be relied on to restore hair color.
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
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