Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 7 of 10 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Adrena Complex Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by DesBio

Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Adrena Complex is a dietary supplement by DesBio with 10 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for diabetic nerve pain (neuropathy), blood sugar support in diabetes, antioxidant support.Based on those ingredients, 654 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Adrena Complex by DesBio

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 10 of its 10 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Adrena Complex contains 10 active ingredients. The main ones are alpha-lipoic acid, an antioxidant; several B vitamins (riboflavin, thiamine, pantothenic acid, and B6); vitamin C; and zinc.

The product also includes three glandular substances—suprarenal (adrenal gland extract), thymus gland extract, and freeze-dried pituitary—whose specific roles aren't established in the data we hold. The capsule also contains rice flour and silicon dioxide as inactive ingredients.

Does it work?

Strong evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed

This product doesn't appear to be marketed for a specific use, so we graded its ingredients' overall clinical evidence instead.

Strong

Strong clinical evidence supports its ingredients for:

Why this rating?
  • We looked at the product name, claims, and label statements and couldn't find a stated purpose to grade.
  • Since the label doesn't commit to one use, we graded the ingredients' overall clinical evidence instead.
  • On file: Sideroblastic anemia — rated "Effective" (Vitamin B6) (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Pantothenic acid deficiency — rated "Effective" (Pantothenic Acid) (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Thiamine deficiency — rated "Effective" (Thiamine) (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Vitamin B6 deficiency — rated "Effective" (Vitamin B6) (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Vitamin C deficiency — rated "Effective" (Vitamin C) (Natural Medicines).

The evidence for this product's ingredients varies by condition. Alpha-lipoic acid is possibly effective for diabetic nerve damage and high cholesterol; vitamin C is effective for vitamin C deficiency and possibly effective for anemia, exercise-related respiratory infections, and other conditions; zinc is effective for zinc deficiency and possibly effective for acne and diabetes.

Thiamine is effective for thiamine deficiency and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, and possibly effective for menstrual cramps. Vitamin B6 is effective for certain blood anemias and vitamin B6 deficiency.

Riboflavin and pantothenic acid have no established effectiveness ratings in our data. The glandular substances have no effectiveness data on file.

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 7 of the 7 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 7 of 7.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 7 of 7.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

These ingredients are generally well tolerated at normal doses. Alpha-lipoic acid may lower blood sugar, so it's best used under medical guidance.

Common side effects from alpha-lipoic acid include headache, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting; vitamin C can cause abdominal cramps, heartburn, and diarrhea—especially at high doses above 2 grams daily; zinc may cause nausea, diarrhea, metallic taste, and abdominal cramps; and vitamin B6 can cause headache and nausea. High-dose vitamin B6 over time can damage nerves.

For pregnancy: there isn't enough safety data for alpha-lipoic acid, so it should be avoided. Vitamin C at normal amounts is likely safe, but high-dose supplements should be avoided unless a doctor advises.

Riboflavin, thiamine, and pantothenic acid are generally safe at recommended amounts during pregnancy and breastfeeding; discuss any high-dose use with your provider. Zinc and vitamin B6 have insufficient data; normal dietary amounts are fine, but discuss high-dose supplements with your doctor.

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 6 of the 7 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Alpha-lipoic Acid, Vitamin B6, Riboflavin, Thiamine, Zinc, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; cancer treatments; diabetes medications; Parkinson's medications.
  • For scale: 654 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking Adrena Complex, double-check these medication types with your pharmacist: blood thinners and antiplatelet drugs (alpha-lipoic acid and vitamin C may increase bleeding risk), birth-control pills and hormone therapy (vitamin C may raise hormone levels), seizure medications like phenytoin and phenobarbital (high-dose vitamin B6 may reduce their effectiveness), thyroid medications including levothyroxine (alpha-lipoic acid and vitamin C affect these differently), antibiotics—especially quinolones, tetracyclines, and cephalexin (zinc binds and reduces absorption), and chemotherapy drugs including alkylating agents and antitumor antibiotics (alpha-lipoic acid and vitamin C antioxidant effects may interfere). If you take any of these, run your full medication list through the interaction checker on this page.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with strong clinical evidence behind its ingredients' uses. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

This product might appeal to someone looking for nutritional support with multiple B vitamins and minerals, especially if they have specific deficiencies or conditions like diabetic neuropathy. If you take blood thinners, birth-control pills, seizure medications, antibiotics, or any chemotherapy drugs, check your medications here before starting.

Talk to your pharmacist or doctor, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing diabetes or thyroid disease.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 7 of 10 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Oct 25, 2013.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Adrena Complex, straight from the product label.

Brand DesBio
Net contents 60 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Oct 25, 2013
DSLD ID 26224
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other
Intended target group(s) Children 4 or More Years of Age, Adult (18 - 50 Years)
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Adrena Complex by DesBio, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
60
IngredientAmount% DV
Alpha Lipoic Acid3 mg--
Riboflavin2 mg118%
Vitamin C100 mg167%
Thiamine3 mg200%
Pantothenic Acid17 mg170%
Zinc1 mg7%
Vitamin B60.01 mg1%
Suprarenal Substance40 mg--
Thymus Substance30 mg--
Freeze Dried Whole Pituitary Substance10 mg--

Other ingredients: Rice Flour, Capsule, Silicon Dioxide

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Precautions

WARNINGS: Keep out of reach of children.

In case of overdose, contact physician or Poison Control Center right away.

If pregnant or breast-feeding, seek advice of a health professional before use.

Tamper seal: "Sealed for Your Protection." Do not use if seal is broken or missing.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

SUGGESTED DOSAGE: For adults and children over age 4, as a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule 2 times daily, or as directed by a physician or pharmacist.

General Statements

Lot: C3199

FDA Statement of Identity

DIETARY SUPPLEMENT

See for yourself

Adrena Complex by DesBio label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Adrena Complex by DesBio

These are the 10 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Alpha Lipoic Acid

Interacts with
263 drugs
3 mg per serving

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant made naturally by the body and found in small amounts in foods. It is most studied for diabetic nerve pain,...

Alpha Lipoic Acid monograph & interactions

Riboflavin

Interacts with
20 drugs
2 mg per serving

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is an essential nutrient your body needs to turn food into energy and to keep skin, eyes, and nerves healthy. It is generally...

Riboflavin monograph & interactions

Vitamin C

Interacts with
207 drugs
100 mg per serving Form: Ascorbic Acid

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient your body needs but cannot make, so you must get it from food or supplements. It's important for im...

Vitamin C monograph & interactions

Thiamine

Interacts with
3 drugs
3 mg per serving Form: Thiamine Mononitrate

Thiamine (vitamin B1) is an essential nutrient your body needs to turn food into energy and to keep your nerves and heart healthy. Most people get eno...

Thiamine monograph & interactions

Pantothenic Acid

No known
interactions
17 mg per serving Form: Calcium D-Pantothenate

Pantothenic acid is vitamin B5, an essential nutrient your body uses to turn food into energy. True deficiency is very rare because it is found in nea...

Pantothenic Acid monograph & interactions

Zinc

Interacts with
67 drugs
1 mg per serving Form: Zinc Aspartate

Zinc is an essential mineral that your body needs for immune function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Most people get enough from food, but suppleme...

Zinc monograph & interactions

Vitamin B6

Interacts with
210 drugs
0.01 mg per serving Form: Pyridoxal 5-Phosphate

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is an essential water-soluble vitamin that your body needs for metabolism, brain function, and making red blood cells. It is b...

Vitamin B6 monograph & interactions

Suprarenal Substance

40 mg per serving

Thymus Substance

30 mg per serving

Freeze Dried Whole Pituitary Substance

10 mg per serving

Other (inactive) ingredients: Rice Flour, Capsule, Silicon Dioxide. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Adrena Complex by DesBio Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Adrena Complex?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
654Drugs
486 Moderate 168 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Vitamin C 207
Zinc 67

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Adrena Complex with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Alpha Lipoic Acid5 drug types · 263 drugs

Alkylating Agents

Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of alpha-lipoic acid might alter the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
The use of antioxidants like alpha-lipoic acid during chemotherapy is controversial. There are concerns that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals. However, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that might interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid have on chemotherapy. Advise patients to consult their oncologist before using alpha-lipoic acid.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, alpha-lipoic acid may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro, alpha-lipoic acid inhibits platelet aggregation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antitumor Antibiotics

Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of alpha-lipoic acid might alter the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
The use of antioxidants like alpha-lipoic acid during chemotherapy is controversial. There are concerns that antioxidants could reduce the activity of antitumor antibiotic drugs, which work by generating free radicals. However, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that might interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid have on chemotherapy involving antitumor antibiotics. Advise patients to consult their oncologist before using alpha-lipoic acid.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, alpha-lipoic acid might decrease the effects of thyroid hormone drugs.
Animal research suggests that co-administration of thyroxine with alpha-lipoic acid reduces conversion into the active T3 form.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking alpha-lipoic acid with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Although some small clinical studies have suggested that alpha-lipoic acid can lower blood glucose levels, larger clinical studies in patients with diabetes have shown no clinically meaningful effect. Additionally, co-administration of single doses of alpha-lipoic acid and glyburide or acarbose did not cause detectable drug interactions in healthy volunteers.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B

Vitamin B65 drug types · 210 drugs

Amiodarone (Cordarone)

Theoretically, vitamin B6 might increase the photosensitivity caused by amiodarone.
Despite initial case reports suggesting that pyridoxine may have a protective effect against amiodarone-induced photosensitivity, preliminary clinical research suggests that pyridoxine may actually exacerbate this adverse effect.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, vitamin B6 may have additive effects when used with antihypertensive drugs.
Research in hypertensive rats shows that vitamin B6 can decrease systolic blood pressure. Similarly, clinical research in patients with hypertension shows that taking high doses of vitamin B6 may reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure, possibly by reducing plasma levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Phenobarbital (Luminal)

High doses of vitamin B6 may reduce the levels and clinical effects of phenobarbital.
Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that vitamin B6 200 mg daily can reduce plasma levels of phenobarbital, possibly by increasing metabolism. It is not known whether lower doses have any effect. Advise people taking phenobarbital to avoid high doses of vitamin B6.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenytoin (Dilantin)

High doses of vitamin B6 may reduce the levels and clinical effects of phenytoin.
Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that vitamin B6 200 mg daily can reduce plasma levels of phenytoin, possibly by increasing metabolism. It is not known whether lower doses have any effect. Advise people taking phenytoin to avoid high doses of vitamin B6.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Levodopa

Vitamin B6 may increase the metabolism of levodopa when taken alone, but not when taken in conjunction with carbidopa.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) enhances the metabolism of levodopa, reducing its clinical effects. However, this interaction does not occur when carbidopa is used concurrently with levodopa (Sinemet). Therefore, it is not likely to be a problem in most people.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D

Vitamin C13 drug types · 207 drugs

Alkylating Agents

Theoretically, antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
The use of antioxidants like vitamin C during chemotherapy is controversial. There is concern that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals, such as cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil, carmustine, busulfan, and thiotepa. In contrast, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that could interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as vitamin C have on chemotherapy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Aluminum

Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Research in animals and humans shows that vitamin C increases aluminum absorption, theoretically by chelating aluminum and keeping it in solution where it is available for absorption. In people with normal renal function, urinary excretion of aluminum will likely increase, making aluminum retention and toxicity unlikely. Patients with renal failure who take aluminum-containing compounds such as phosphate binders should avoid vitamin C supplements in doses above the recommended dietary allowances.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Antitumor Antibiotics

Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
The use of antioxidants like vitamin C during chemotherapy is controversial. There is concern that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs which generate free radicals, such as doxorubicin. In contrast, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that could interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effects, if any, antioxidants such as vitamin C have on chemotherapy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Vitamin C might increase blood levels of estrogens.
Increases in plasma estrogen levels of up to 55% occur under some circumstances when vitamin C is taken concurrently with oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, including topical products. It is suggested that vitamin C prevents oxidation of estrogen in the tissues, regenerates oxidized estrogen, and reduces sulfate conjugation of estrogen in the gut wall. When tissue levels of vitamin C are high, these processes are already maximized and supplemental vitamin C does not have any effect on estrogen levels. Increases in plasma estrogen levels may occur when patients who are deficient in vitamin C take supplements. Monitor these patients for estrogen-related side effects.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Fluphenazine (Prolixin)

Theoretically, vitamin C might decrease levels of fluphenazine.
In one patient there was a clinically significant decrease in fluphenazine levels when vitamin C (500 mg twice daily) was started. The mechanism is not known, and there is no further data to confirm this interaction.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Indinavir (Crixivan)

Vitamin C can modestly reduce indinavir levels.
One pharmacokinetic study shows that taking vitamin C 1 gram orally once daily along with indinavir 800 mg orally three times daily reduces the area under the concentration-time curve of indinavir by 14%. The mechanism of this interaction is unknown, but it is unlikely to be clinically significant in most patients. The effect of higher doses of vitamin C on indinavir levels is unknown.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)

Vitamin C can increase levothyroxine absorption.
Two clinical studies in adults with poorly controlled hypothyroidism show that swallowing levothyroxine with a glass of water containing vitamin C 500-1000 mg in solution reduces thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and increases thyroxine (T4) levels when compared with taking levothyroxine alone. This suggests that vitamin C increases the oral absorption of levothyroxine, possibly due to a reduction in pH.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Warfarin (Coumadin)

High-dose vitamin C might reduce the levels and effectiveness of warfarin.
Vitamin C in high doses may cause diarrhea and possibly reduce warfarin absorption. There are reports of two people who took up to 16 grams daily of vitamin C and had a reduction in prothrombin time. Lower doses of 5-10 grams daily can also reduce warfarin absorption. In many cases, this does not seem to be clinically significant. However, a case of warfarin resistance has been reported for a patient who took vitamin C 500 mg twice daily. Cessation of vitamin C supplementation resulted in a rapid increase in international normalized ratio (INR). Tell patients taking warfarin to avoid taking vitamin C in excessively high doses (greater than 10 grams daily). Lower doses may be safe, but the anticoagulation activity of warfarin should be monitored. Patients who are stabilized on warfarin while taking vitamin C should avoid adjusting vitamin C dosage to prevent the possibility of warfarin resistance.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Others)

High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers shows that taking high-dose vitamin C (3 grams) 1.5 hours after taking acetaminophen 1 gram slightly increases the apparent half-life of acetaminophen from around 2.3 hours to 3.1 hours. Ascorbic acid competitively inhibits sulfate conjugation of acetaminophen. However, to compensate, elimination of acetaminophen glucuronide and unconjugated acetaminophen increases. This effect is not likely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Aspirin

Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase aspirin levels.
It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C could increase reabsorption of salicylates by the renal tubules, and increase plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams daily of vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion, suggesting this interaction is not clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Choline Magnesium Trisalicylate (Trilisate)

Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase choline magnesium trisalicylate levels.
It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C could increase reabsorption of salicylates by the renal tubules, and increase plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams daily of vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion, suggesting this interaction probably is not clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Niacin

Vitamin C might decrease the beneficial effects of niacin on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels.
A combination of niacin and simvastatin (Zocor) effectively raises HDL cholesterol levels in patients with coronary disease and low HDL levels. Clinical research shows that taking a combination of antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and selenium) along with niacin and simvastatin (Zocor) attenuates this rise in HDL, specifically the HDL-2 and apolipoprotein A1 fractions, by more than 50% in patients with coronary disease. It is not known whether this adverse effect is due to a single antioxidant such as vitamin C, or to the combination. It also is not known whether it will occur in other patient populations.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A
Salsalate (Disalcid)

Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase salsalate levels.
It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C could increase reabsorption of salicylates by the renal tubules, and increase plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams/day vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion, suggesting this interaction probably is not clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

Zinc10 drug types · 67 drugs

Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)

Theoretically, zinc might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption.
Advise patients that bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide should be taken at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after zinc containing products.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Cephalexin (Keflex)

Zinc might decrease cephalexin levels by chelating with cephalexin in the gut and preventing its absorption.
A pharmacokinetic study shows that zinc sulfate 250 mg taken concomitantly with cephalexin 500 mg decreases peak levels of cephalexin by 31% and reduces the exposure to cephalexin by 27%. Also, taking zinc sulfate 3 hours before cephalexin decreases peak levels of cephalexin by 11% and reduces the exposure to cephalexin by 18%. By decreasing cephalexin levels, zinc might increase the risk of treatment failure. This effect does not occur when zinc is taken 3 hours after the cephalexin dose. To avoid an interaction, advise patients take zinc sulfate 3 hours after taking cephalexin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cisplatin (Platinol-Aq)

Theoretically, zinc might interfere with the therapeutic effects of cisplatin.
Animal research suggests that zinc stimulates tumor cell production of the protein metallothionein, which binds and inactivates cisplatin. It is not known whether zinc supplements or high dietary zinc intake can cause clinically significant interference with cisplatin therapy. Cisplatin might also increase zinc excretion.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Integrase Inhibitors

Theoretically, taking zinc along with integrase inhibitors might decrease the levels and clinical effects of these drugs.
Zinc is a divalent cation. Pharmacokinetic studies have shown that other divalent cations such as calcium and iron can decrease blood levels of the integrase inhibitor dolutegravir through chelation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)

Zinc might reduce the levels and clinical effects of penicillamine.
By forming an insoluble complex with penicillamine, zinc interferes with penicillamine absorption and activity. Zinc supplements reduce the efficacy of low-dose penicillamine (0.5-1 gram/day), but do not seem to affect higher doses (1-2.75 gram/day), provided dosing times are separated. Advise patients to take zinc and penicillamine at least 2 hours apart.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Quinolone Antibiotics

Zinc can decrease the levels and clinical effects of quinolones antibiotics.
Quinolones form complexes with zinc in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing absorption of both the quinolone and zinc if taken at the same time. Advise patients to take these drugs at least 2 hours before, or 4-6 hours after, zinc supplements.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Ritonavir (Norvir)

Zinc modestly reduces levels of ritonavir.
Clinical research shows that zinc might reduce serum ritonavir levels by chelating with ritonavir in the gut and preventing its absorption. In patients with HIV, ritonavir is taken with atazanavir to prevent the metabolism and increase the effects of atazanavir. A pharmacokinetic study shows that, in patients being treated with atazanavir/ritonavir, co-administration of zinc sulfate (Solvazinc tablets) 125 mg as a single dose or as multiple daily doses for 2 weeks reduces plasma levels of ritonavir by about 16%. However, atazanavir levels still remains high enough to prevent HIV virus replication. Therefore, the decrease in ritonavir levels is not likely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Tetracycline Antibiotics

Zinc might reduce levels of tetracycline antibiotics.
Tetracyclines form complexes with zinc in the gastrointestinal tract, which can reduce absorption of both the tetracycline and zinc when taken at the same time. Taking zinc sulfate 200 mg with tetracycline reduces absorption of the antibiotic by 30% to 40%. Demeclocycline and minocycline cause a similar interaction. However, doxycycline does not seem to interact significantly with zinc. Advise patients to take tetracyclines at least 2 hours before, or 4-6 hours after, zinc supplements to avoid any interactions.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Amiloride (Midamor)

Amiloride can modestly reduce zinc excretion and increase zinc levels.
Clinical research shows that amiloride can reduce urinary zinc excretion, especially at doses of 10 mg per day or more. This zinc-sparing effect can help to counteract zinc losses caused by thiazide diuretics, but it is unlikely to cause zinc toxicity at usual amiloride doses. The other potassium-sparing diuretics, spironolactone (Aldactone) and triamterene (Dyrenium), do not seem to have a zinc-sparing effect.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Atazanavir (Reyataz)

Zinc modestly reduces levels of atazanavir, although this effect does not seem to be clinically significant.
Clinical research shows that zinc might decrease serum atazanavir levels by chelating with atazanavir in the gut and preventing its absorption. Although a single dose of zinc sulfate (Solvazinc tablets) 125 mg orally does not affect atazanavir concentrations in patients being treated with atazanavir/ritonavir, co-administration of zinc sulfate 125 mg daily for 2 weeks reduces plasma levels of atazanavir by about 22% in these patients. However, despite this decrease, atazanavir levels still remain at high enough concentrations for the prevention of HIV virus replication.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B

Riboflavin1 drug type · 20 drugs

Tetracycline Antibiotics

Theoretically, taking riboflavin with tetracycline antibiotics may decrease the potency of these antibiotics.
In vitro research suggests that riboflavin may inhibit the potency of tetracycline antibiotics. It is not clear if this effect is clinically significant, as this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Thiamine1 drug type · 3 drugs

Trimethoprim (Proloprim)

Trimethoprim might increase blood levels of thiamine.
In vitro, animal, and clinical research suggest that trimethoprim inhibits intestinal thiamine transporter ThTR-2, hepatic transporter OCT1, and renal transporters OCT2, MATE1, and MATE2, resulting in paradoxically increased thiamine plasma concentrations.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Adrena Complex, from the product label.

DesBio

See all DesBio products
Name
Deseret Biologicals, Inc.
Street Address
469 Parkland Drive
City
Sandy
State
UT
ZipCode
84070
Web Address
www.desbio.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Adrena Complex by DesBio: Common Questions

Does Adrena Complex by DesBio interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Adrena Complex has a known interaction with 654 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Adrena Complex contains 10 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take this if I'm pregnant?
Alpha-lipoic acid should be avoided—there isn't enough safety data. Vitamin C at normal amounts is likely safe, but avoid high-dose supplements. Riboflavin, thiamine, and pantothenic acid are safe at recommended amounts. For zinc and vitamin B6, normal dietary amounts are fine, but discuss any high-dose use with your doctor. Talk to your OB or pharmacist before starting this product.
What are the most common side effects?
The main ones from these ingredients are headache, nausea, heartburn, and diarrhea—all dose-related and generally mild. Zinc may cause a metallic taste. At very high doses over time, vitamin B6 can damage nerves, but standard supplement amounts are much safer.
Will this help my blood sugar?
Alpha-lipoic acid is possibly effective for diabetic nerve damage, and zinc is possibly effective for diabetes. However, alpha-lipoic acid may lower blood sugar, so it's best used under medical guidance if you take diabetes medication. Talk to your doctor before starting, especially if you're on blood-sugar drugs.
Is this safe to take long-term?
Most of these ingredients are generally well tolerated long-term at normal supplement doses. The main exception is vitamin B6—very high doses over months or years can cause nerve damage. Stick to the label dose and have your doctor monitor you if you use this regularly.
What are the three glandular substances in here for?
The product contains suprarenal (adrenal) extract, thymus extract, and pituitary extract. We don't have established effectiveness data for these in our records, so I can't tell you what the maker intends them to do. Ask the manufacturer or your pharmacist.

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

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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

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Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Adrena Complex’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Alpha-lipoic Acid

Interacts with 263 drugs

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant made naturally by the body and found in small amounts in foods. It is most studied for diabetic nerve pain, where some evidence suggests it may help...

Read the full Alpha-lipoic Acid monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Riboflavin

Interacts with 20 drugs

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is an essential nutrient your body needs to turn food into energy and to keep skin, eyes, and nerves healthy. It is generally very safe at typical doses, and the stro...

Read the full Riboflavin monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Vitamin C

Interacts with 207 drugs

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient your body needs but cannot make, so you must get it from food or supplements. It's important for immune function, collagen, and acts as an...

Read the full Vitamin C monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Thiamine

Interacts with 3 drugs

Thiamine (vitamin B1) is an essential nutrient your body needs to turn food into energy and to keep your nerves and heart healthy. Most people get enough from food, but supplements are clear...

Read the full Thiamine monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Pantothenic Acid

Pantothenic acid is vitamin B5, an essential nutrient your body uses to turn food into energy. True deficiency is very rare because it is found in nearly all foods, and most people meet thei...

Read the full Pantothenic Acid monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Zinc

Interacts with 67 drugs

Zinc is an essential mineral that your body needs for immune function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Most people get enough from food, but supplements can help correct or prevent a defici...

Read the full Zinc monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Vitamin B6

Interacts with 210 drugs

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is an essential water-soluble vitamin that your body needs for metabolism, brain function, and making red blood cells. It is best known for helping with pregnancy-rel...

Read the full Vitamin B6 monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Adrena Complex's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 242 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Alpha-lipoic Acid 48 references
  1. Labriola D, Livingston R. Possible interactions between dietary antioxidants and chemotherapy. Oncology 1999;13:1003-8.
  2. Anon. Alpha-lipoic acid. Altern Med Rev 1998;3:308-10.
  3. Konrad T, Vicini P, Kusterer K, et al. Alpha-lipoic acid treatment decreases serum lactate and pyruvate concentrations and improves glucose effectiveness in lean and obese patients with Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care 1999;22:280-7. PubMed
  4. Ziegler D, Hanefeld M, Ruhnau KJ, et al. Treatment of symptomatic diabetic peripheral neuropathy with the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid: A 3-week, multicentre randomized controlled trial (ALADIN Study). Diabetologia 1995;38:1425-33.
  5. Gleiter CH, Schreeb KH, Freudenthaler S, et al. Lack of interaction between thioctic acid, glibenclamide and acarbose. Br J Clin Pharmacol 1999;48:819-25. PubMed
  6. Jacob S, Henriksen EJ, Tritschler HJ, et al. Improvement of insulin-stimulated glucose-disposal in type 2 diabetes after repeated parenteral administration of thioctic acid. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabet 1996;104:284-8. PubMed
  7. Jacob S, Henriksen EJ, Schiemann AL, et al. Enhancement of glucose disposal in patients with type 2 diabetes by alpha-lipoic acid. Arzneimittelforschung 1995;45:872-4.
  8. Jacob S, Ruus P, Hermann R, et al. Oral administration of RAC-alpha-lipoic acid modulates insulin sensitivity in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: a placebo-controlled, pilot trial. Free Rad Biol Med 1999;27:309-14.
  9. Segermann J, Hotze A, Ulrich H, Rao GS. Effect of alpha-lipoic acid on the peripheral conversion of thyroxine to triiodothyronine and on serum lipid-, protein- and glucose levels. Arzneimittelforschung 1991;41:1294-8.
  10. Beitner H. Randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind study on the clinical efficacy of a cream containing 5% alpha-lipoic acid related to photoaging of facial skin. Br J Dermatol 2003;149:841-9.
  11. Ziegler D, Nowak H, Kempler P, et al. Treatment of symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy with the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid: A meta-analysis. Diabet Med 2004;21:114-21.
  12. Prasad KN. Rationale for using high-dose multiple dietary antioxidants as an adjunct to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. J Nutr 2004;134:3182S-3S. PubMed
  13. Conklin KA. Cancer chemotherapy and antioxidants. J Nutr 2004;134:3201S-3204S. PubMed
  14. Vincent HK, Bourguignon CM, Vincent KR, Taylor AG. Effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation in peripheral arterial disease: a pilot study. J Alt Complement Med 2007;13:577-84. PubMed
  15. Furukawa N, Miyamura N, Nishida K, et al. Possible relevance of alpha lipoic acid contained in a health supplement in a case of insulin autoimmune syndrome. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2007;75:366-7. PubMed
  16. Ziegler D., Ametov A., Barinov A., Dyck P. J., Gurieva I., Low P. A., Munzel U., Yakhno N., Raz I., Novosadova M., Maus J., Samigullin, R. Oral treatment with alpha-lipoic acid improves symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy: the SYDNEY 2 trial. Diabetes Car
  17. Gu X. M., Zhang S. S., Wu J. C., Tang Z. Y., Lu Z. Q., Li H., Liu C., Chen L., Ning, G. [Efficacy and safety of high-dose a-lipoic acid in the treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy]. Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi 2010;90(35):2473-2476.
  18. Porasuphatana S., Suddee S., Nartnampong A., Konsil J., Harnwong B., Santaweesuk A. Glycemic and oxidative status of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus following oral administration of alpha-lipoic acid: a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled
  19. Ansar H., Mazloom Z., Kazemi F., Hejazi N. Effect of alpha-lipoic acid on blood glucose, insulin resistance and glutathione peroxidase of type 2 diabetic patients. Saudi Med J 2011;32(6):584-588. DOI
  20. de Oliveira A. M., Rondó P. H., Luzia L. A., D'Abronzo F. H., Illison V. K. The effects of lipoic acid and a-tocopherol supplementation on the lipid profile and insulin sensitivity of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, double-blind, pla
  21. Mazloom Z., Ansar H. The Effect of Alpha-Lipoic Acid on Blood Pressure in Type 2 Diabetics. Iranian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism 2009;11(3):245-250.
  22. Volchegorskii I. A., Rassokhina L. M., Koliadich M. I., Alekseev M. I. [Comparative study of alpha-lipoic acid and mexidol effects on affective status, cognitive functions and quality of life in diabetes mellitus patients]. Eksp Klin Farmakol 2011;74(11):
  23. Cavalcanti D. R., da Silveira F. R. Alpha lipoic acid in burning mouth syndrome--a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. J Oral Pathol Med 2009;38(3):254-261. PubMed
  24. Koh E. H., Lee W. J., Lee S. A., Kim E. H., Cho E. H., Jeong E., Kim D. W., Kim M. S., Park J. Y., Park K. G., Lee H. J., Lee I. K., Lim S., Jang H. C., Lee K. H., Lee K. U. Effects of alpha-lipoic Acid on body weight in obese subjects. Am J Med 2011;124( PubMed
  25. Bergqvist-Karlsson, A., Thelin, I., and Bergendorff, O. Contact dermatitis to alpha-lipoic acid in an anti-wrinkle cream. Contact Dermatitis 2006;55(1):56-57.
  26. Tang, J., Wingerchuk, D. M., Crum, B. A., Rubin, D. I., and Demaerschalk, B. M. Alpha-lipoic acid may improve symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy. Neurologist. 2007;13(3):164-167. PubMed
  27. Hegazy SK, Tolba OA, Mostafa TM, Eid MA, El-Afify DR. Alpha-lipoic acid improves subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in asymptomatic patients with type 1 diabetes. Rev Diabet Stud 2013;10(1):58-67. PubMed
  28. Huang Z, Wan X, Liu J, et al. Short-term continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion combined with insulin sensitizers rosiglitazone, metformin, or antioxidant a-lipoic acid in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus. Diabetes Technol Ther 201
  29. Sarezky D, Raquib AR, Dunaief JL, Kim BJ. Tolerability in the elderly population of high-dose alpha lipoic acid: a potential antioxidant therapy for the eye. Clin Ophthalmol. 2016 Sep 29;10:1899-1903. PubMed
  30. Boriani F, Granchi D, Roatti G, Merlini L, Sabattini T, Baldini N. Alpha-lipoic acid after median nerve decompression at the carpal tunnel: a randomized controlled trial. J Hand Surg Am. 2017 Apr;42(4):236-42. PubMed
  31. Karkabounas S, Papadopoulos N, Anastasiadou C, et al. Effects of a-lipoic Acid, carnosine, and thiamine supplementation in obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double-blind study. J Med Food. 2018;21(12):1197-1203.
  32. Murray GL, Colombo J. (r)Alpha lipoic acid is a safe, effective pharmacologic therapy of chronic orthostatic hypotension associated with low sympathetic tone. Int J Angiol. 2019;28(3):188-193. PubMed
  33. Bobe G, Michels AJ, Zhang WJ, et al. A randomized controlled trial of long-term (R)-α-lipoic acid supplementation promotes weight loss in overweight or obese adults without altering baseline elevated plasma triglyceride concentrations. J Nutr. 2020:
  34. Passiatore M, Perna A, De-Vitis R, Taccardo G. The use of alfa-lipoic acid-R (ALA-R) in patients with mild-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome: A randomised controlled open label prospective study. Malays Orthop J. 2020;14(1):1-6. PubMed
  35. El-Nahas MR, Elkannishy G, Abdelhafez H, Elkhamisy ET, El-Sehrawy AA. Oral alpha lipoic acid treatment for symptomatic diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled study. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets. 2020. PubMed
  36. Kim BJ, Hunter A, Brucker AJ, et al. Orally administered alpha lipoic acid as a treatment for geographic atrophy: A randomized clinical trial. Ophthalmol Retina. 2020;4(9):889-898. PubMed
  37. Derosa G, D'Angelo A, Preti P, Maffioli P. Safety and efficacy of alpha lipoic acid during 4 years of observation: A retrospective, clinical trial in healthy subjects in primary prevention. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2020;14:5367-5374.
  38. Sun Y, Guan X, Wang H, et al. Randomized clinical trial of combined therapy with oral a-lipoic acid and NB-UVB for nonsegmental stable vitiligo. Dermatol Ther. 2021;34(1):e14610.
  39. Gilron I, Robb S, Tu D, et al. Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial of alpha-lipoic acid for the treatment of fibromyalgia pain: the IMPALA trial. Pain. 2021;162(2):561-568. PubMed
  40. Gullo D, Evans JL, Sortino G, Goldfine ID, Vigneri R. Insulin autoimmune syndrome (Hirata Disease) in European Caucasians taking a-lipoic acid. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). 2014;81(2):204-9.
  41. Yukina M, Nuralieva N, Solovyev M, Troshina E, Vasilyev E. Insulin autoimmune syndrome. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab Case Rep. 2020;2020:19-0159. PubMed
  42. Moffa S, Improta I, Rocchetti S, Mezza T, Giaccari A. Potential cause-effect relationship between insulin autoimmune syndrome and alpha lipoic acid: Two case reports. Nutrition. 2019;57:1-4. PubMed
  43. Izzo V, Greco C, Corradini D, et al. Insulin autoimmune syndrome in an Argentine woman taking a-lipoic acid: A case report and review of the literature. SAGE Open Med Case Rep. 2018;6:2050313X18819601.
  44. EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA), Turck D, et al. Scientific opinion on the relationship between intake of alpha-lipoic acid (thioctic acid) and the risk of insulin autoimmune syndrome. EFSA J 2021;19(6):e06577. PubMed
  45. Jibril AT, Jayedi A, Shab-Bidar S. Efficacy and safety of oral alpha-lipoic acid supplementation for type 2 diabetes management: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized trials. Endocr Connect 2022;11(10):e220322. PubMed
  46. Corazza M, Arlotti E, Schettini N, Pacetti L, Bianchi A, Borghi A. Allergic contact dermatitis due to a-lipoic acid in a topical over-the-counter product: A case report. Contact Dermatitis 2023.
  47. Velasco-Amador JP, Prados-Carmona Á, Navarro-Triviño FJ. Contact urticaria syndrome caused by alpha-lipoic acid in a master formula for vulvar lichen sclerosus. Contact Dermatitis 2023;89(2):136-137. PubMed
  48. Sehgal T, Ohri U, Mittal N, Attri P, Dishant F. A Case of Insulin Autoimmune Syndrome in an Indian Male Taking Alpha-Lipoic Acid. Cureus 2023;15(8):e43743. PubMed

See these in context on the Alpha-lipoic Acid monograph →

Riboflavin 5 references
  1. Schoenen J, Jacquy J, Lenaerts M. Effectiveness of high-dose riboflavin in migraine prophylaxis. A randomized controlled trial. Neurology 1998;50:466-70. PubMed
  2. Yates AA, Schlicker SA, Suitor CW. Dietary reference intakes: The new basis for recommendations for calcium and related nutrients, B vitamins, and choline. J Am Diet Assoc 1998;98:699-706. PubMed
  3. Leeson LJ, Weidenheimer JF. Stability of tetracycline and riboflavin. J Pharm Sci. 1969;58(3):355-7. PubMed
  4. MacLennan, S. C., Wade, F. M., Forrest, K. M., Ratanayake, P. D., Fagan, E., and Antony, J. High-dose riboflavin for migraine prophylaxis in children: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. J Child Neurol. 2008;23(11):1300-1304.
  5. Dietary reference intakes (DRIs): estimated average requirements. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine, National Academics. https://www.nal.usda.gov/sites/default/files/fnic_uploads//recommended_intakes_individuals.pdf Accessed July 24, 2017.

See these in context on the Riboflavin monograph →

Vitamin C 51 references
  1. McEvoy GK, ed. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
  2. Back DJ, Breckenridge AM, MacIver M, et al. Interaction of ethinyloestradiol with ascorbic acid in man. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1981;282:1516.
  3. Morris JC, Beeley L, Ballantine N. Interaction of ethinyloestradiol with ascorbic acid in man [letter]. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1981;283:503.
  4. Labriola D, Livingston R. Possible interactions between dietary antioxidants and chemotherapy. Oncology 1999;13:1003-8.
  5. Dwyer JH, Merz NB, Shirocre AM, et al. Progression of early atherosclerosis and intake of vitamin C and vitamin E from supplements and food. The Los Angeles Atherosclerosis Study. 41st Annual Conference on Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Prevent
  6. Levine M, Rumsey SC, Daruwala R, et al. Criteria and recommendations for vitamin C intake. JAMA 1999;281:1415-23. PubMed
  7. Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, WA: Applied Therapeutics Inc., 1997 and updates.
  8. Segal S, Kaminski S. Drug-nutrient interactions. American Druggist 1996 Jul;42-8.
  9. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and Carotenoids. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000. Available at: http://www.nap.edu/books/0309069351/html/.
  10. Houston JB, Levy G. Drug biotransformation interactions in man VI: Acetaminophen and ascorbic acid. J Pharm Sci 1976;65:1218-21. PubMed
  11. Brown BG, Zhao XQ, Chait A, et al. Simvastatin and niacin, antioxidant vitamins, or the combination for the prevention of coronary disease. N Engl J Med 2001;345:1583-93. DOI
  12. Rosenthal G. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1971;215:1671. DOI
  13. Hume R, Johnstone JM, Weyers E. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1972;219:1479. DOI
  14. Smith EC, Skalski RJ, Johnson GC, Rossi GV. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1972;221:1166. DOI
  15. Traxer O, Huet B, Poindexter J, et al. Effect of ascorbic acid consumption on urinary stone risk factors. J Urol 2003;170:397-401.. PubMed
  16. Domingo JL, Gomez M, Llobet JM, Richart C. Effect of ascorbic acid on gastrointestinal aluminum absorption (letter). Lancet 1991;338:1467.
  17. Domingo JL, Gomez M, Llobet JM, Corbella J. Influence of some dietary constituents on aluminum absorption and retention in rats. Kidney Int 1991;39:598-601. PubMed
  18. Partridge NA, Regnier FE, White JL, Hem SL. Influence of dietary constituents on intestinal absorption of aluminum. Kidney Int 1989;35:1413-7. PubMed
  19. Mc Leod DC, Nahata MC. Inefficacy of ascorbic acid as a urinary acidifier (letter). N Engl J Med 1977;296:1413. DOI
  20. Hansten PD, Hayton WL. Effect of antacid and ascorbic acid on serum salicylate concentration. J Clin Pharmacol 1980;20:326-31. PubMed
  21. Dysken MW, Cumming RJ, Channon RA, Davis JM. Drug interaction between ascorbic acid and fluphenazine. JAMA 1979;241:2008. DOI
  22. Vihtamaki T, Parantainen J, Koivisto AM, et al. Oral ascorbic acid increases plasma oestradiol during postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy. Maturitas 2002;42:129-35. PubMed
  23. Slain D, Amsden JR, Khakoo RA, et al. Effect of high-dose vitamin C on the steady-state pharmacokinetics of the protease inhibitor indinavir in healthy volunteers. Pharmacotherapy 2005;25:165-70. PubMed
  24. Cheung MC, Zhao XQ, Chait A, et al. Antioxidant supplements block the response of HDL to simvastatin-niacin therapy in patients with coronary artery disease and low HDL. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2001;21:1320-6. PubMed
  25. Feetam CL, Leach RH, Meynell MJ. Lack of a clinically important interaction between warfarin and ascorbic acid. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1975;31:544-7. PubMed
  26. Weintraub M, Griner PF. Warfarin and ascorbic acid: lack of evidence for a drug interaction. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1974;28:53-6. PubMed
  27. Lee DH, Folsom AR, Harnack L, et al. Does supplemental vitamin C increase cardiovascular disease risk in women with diabetes? Am J Clin Nutr 2004;80:1194-200. PubMed
  28. Taylor EN, Stampfer MJ, Curhan GC. Dietary factors and the risk of incident kidney stones in men: new insights after 14 years of follow-up. J Am Soc Nephrol 2004;15:3225-32. PubMed
  29. Ward NC, Hodgson JM, Croft KD, et al. The combination of vitamin C and grape-seed polyphenols increases blood pressure: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Hypertens 2005;23:427-34.. PubMed
  30. Prasad KN. Rationale for using high-dose multiple dietary antioxidants as an adjunct to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. J Nutr 2004;134:3182S-3S. PubMed
  31. Conklin KA. Cancer chemotherapy and antioxidants. J Nutr 2004;134:3201S-3204S. PubMed
  32. Fairweather-Tait S, Hickson K, McGaw B, et al. Orange juice enhances aluminium absorption from antacid preparation. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1994;48(1):71-3.
  33. Gruenwald, J., Graubaum, H. J., Busch, R., and Bentley, C. Safety and tolerance of ester-C compared with regular ascorbic acid. Adv.Ther. 2006;23(1):171-178.
  34. Rahimi, R., Nikfar, S., Rezaie, A., and Abdollahi, M. A meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of combined vitamin C and E supplementation in preeclamptic women. Hypertens.Pregnancy. 2009;28(4):417-434. PubMed
  35. Einerson, B., Nathorn, C., Kitiyakara, C., Sirada, M., and Thamlikitkul, V. The efficacy of ascorbic acid in suboptimal responsive anemic hemodialysis patients receiving erythropoietin: a meta-analysis. J Med.Assoc.Thai. 2011;94 Suppl 1:S134-S146.
  36. Li, G., Li, L., Yu, C., and Chen, L. Effect of vitamins C and E supplementation on Helicobacter pylori eradication: a meta-analysis. Br.J Nutr 2011;106(11):1632-1637.
  37. Chen X, Shen L, Gu X, et al. High-dose supplementation with vitamin C--induced pediatric urolithiasis: the first case report in a child and literature review. Urology. 2014;84(4):922-4. PubMed
  38. Sattar A, Willman JE, Kolluri R. Possible warfarin resistance due to interaction with ascorbic acid: case report and literature review. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2013;70(9):782-6. PubMed
  39. Yaich S, Chaabouni Y, Charfeddine K, et al. Secondary oxalosis due to excess vitamin C intake: a cause of graft loss in a renal transplant recipient. Saudi J Kidney Dis Transpl. 2014;25(1):113-6. PubMed
  40. Jalloh MA, Gregory PJ, Hein D, et al. Dietary supplement interactions with antiretrovirals: a systematic review. Int J STD AIDS. 2017 Jan;28(1):4-15. PubMed
  41. Rumbold A, Ota E, Nagata C, Shahrook S, Crowther CA. Vitamin C supplementation in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015;(9):CD004072. PubMed
  42. Seo MS, Kim JK, Shim JY. High-dose vitamin C promotes regression of multiple pulmonary metastases originating from hepatocellular carcinoma. Yonsei Med J. 2015;56(5):1449-52. PubMed
  43. Skelin M, Lucijanic T, Amidzic Klaric D, et al. Factors Affecting Gastrointestinal Absorption of Levothyroxine: A Review. Clin Ther. 2017 Feb;39(2):378-403. PubMed
  44. Jiang K, Tang K, Liu H, Xu H, Ye Z, Chen Z. Ascorbic acid supplements and kidney stones incidence among men and women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Urol J. 2019;16(2):115-120.
  45. Thomas S, Patel D, Bittel B, et al. Effect of High-Dose Zinc and Ascorbic Acid Supplementation vs Usual Care on Symptom Length and Reduction Among Ambulatory Patients With SARS-CoV-2 Infection: The COVID A to Z Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2 PubMed
  46. Giffen MA, McLemore JL. Hyperoxalosis Secondary to Intravenous Vitamin C Administration as a Non-Allopathic Treatment for Cancer. Acad Forensic Pathol 2019;9(1-2):118-126. PubMed
  47. Maike A, Sturgill D, Gallan A. Oxalate Nephropathy in a Renal Transplant Recipient After Receiving High Dose Ascorbic Acid. Am J Med Sci 2021. PubMed
  48. Shen ZY, Chen YR, Wang MC, Chang SS. High-dose vitamin C-induced acute oxalate nephropathy in a renal transplant recipient: a case report and literature review. Asian J Surg 2022. PubMed
  49. Yanase F, Spano S, Maeda A, et al. Mega-dose sodium ascorbate: a pilot, single-dose, physiological effect, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. Crit Care 2023;27(1):371. PubMed
  50. Sharma Y, Sumanadasa S, Shahi R, et al. Efficacy and safety of vitamin C supplementation in the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia: a systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis. Sci Rep 2024;14(1):11846. PubMed
  51. Pejcic AV, Petrovic NZ, Djordjic MD, Milosavljevic MN. Vitamin C Levels in Pregnant Women and the Efficacy of Vitamin C Supplements in Preventing Premature Rupture of Membranes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Balkan Med J 2024;41(4):248-260. PubMed

See these in context on the Vitamin C monograph →

Thiamine 7 references
  1. McEvoy GK, ed. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
  2. Yates AA, Schlicker SA, Suitor CW. Dietary reference intakes: The new basis for recommendations for calcium and related nutrients, B vitamins, and choline. J Am Diet Assoc 1998;98:699-706. PubMed
  3. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline (2000). Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000. Available at: http://b
  4. Rogovik, A. L., Vohra, S., and Goldman, R. D. Safety considerations and potential interactions of vitamins: should vitamins be considered drugs? Ann.Pharmacother. 2010;44(2):311-324. PubMed
  5. Arruti N, Bernedo N, Audicana MT, Villarreal O, Uriel O, Muñoz D. Systemic allergic dermatitis caused by thiamine after iontophoresis. Contact Dermatitis. 2013 Dec;69(6):375-6. PubMed
  6. Thiamine hydrochloride injection package insert. Lake Zurich, IL: Fresenius Kabi, LLC; September 2019.
  7. Vora B, Wen A, Yee SW, et al. The Effect of Trimethoprim on Thiamine Absorption: A Transporter-Mediated Drug-Nutrient Interaction. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2023;114(2):381-392.

See these in context on the Thiamine monograph →

Pantothenic Acid 11 references
  1. McEvoy GK, ed. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
  2. Yates AA, Schlicker SA, Suitor CW. Dietary reference intakes: The new basis for recommendations for calcium and related nutrients, B vitamins, and choline. J Am Diet Assoc 1998;98:699-706. PubMed
  3. Debourdeau PM, Djezzar S, Estival JL, et al. Life-threatening eosinophilic pleuropericardial effusion related to vitamins B5 and H. Ann Pharmacother 2001;35:424-6. DOI
  4. Schmuth, M., Wimmer, M. A., Hofer, S., Sztankay, A., Weinlich, G., Linder, D. M., Elias, P. M., Fritsch, P. O., and Fritsch, E. Topical corticosteroid therapy for acute radiation dermatitis: a prospective, randomized, double-blind study. Br.J.Dermatol. 2 PubMed
  5. Schreck, U., Paulsen, F., Bamberg, M., and Budach, W. Intraindividual comparison of two different skin care conceptions in patients undergoing radiotherapy of the head-and-neck region. Creme or powder? Strahlenther.Onkol. 2002;178(6):321-329. PubMed
  6. Herbst, R. A., Uter, W., Pirker, C., Geier, J., and Frosch, P. J. Allergic and non-allergic periorbital dermatitis: patch test results of the Information Network of the Departments of Dermatology during a 5-year period. Contact Dermatitis 2004;51(1):13-1 PubMed
  7. Champault, G. and Patel, J. C. [Treatment of constipation with Bepanthene]. Med.Chir Dig. 1977;6(1):57-59.
  8. Scott LN, Fiume M, Bergfeld WF, et al. Safety Assessment of Panthenol, Pantothenic Acid, and Derivatives as Used in Cosmetics. Int J Toxicol 2022;41(3_suppl):77-128. PubMed
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See these in context on the Pantothenic Acid monograph →

Zinc 88 references
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See these in context on the Zinc monograph →

Vitamin B6 32 references
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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.

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