Arsynist Ingredients & Drug Interactions

Green tea extract seems to reduce the levels and clinical effects of atorvastatin.
In healthy humans, taking green tea extract 300 mg or 600 mg along with atorvastatin reduces plasma levels of atorvastatin by approximately 24%. The elimination of atorvastatin is not affected. Atorvastatin is a substrate of organic anion-transporting polypeptides (OATPs). Research shows that two of the major catechins found in green tea, epicatechin gallate (ECG) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), inhibit OATPs. Some OATPs are expressed in the small intestine and are responsible for the uptake of drugs and other compounds, which may have resulted in reduced plasma levels of atorvastatin. It is not clear if drinking green tea alters the absorption of atorvastatin.

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk for stimulant adverse effects.
Green tea contains caffeine. There is evidence that using ephedrine with caffeine might increase the risk of serious life-threatening or debilitating adverse effects such as hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, seizures, and death.

Green tea seems to reduce the levels and clinical effects of nadolol.
Preliminary clinical research shows that green tea consumption reduces plasma concentrations of nadolol. Compared to a control group, both peak levels and total drug exposure (AUC) of nadolol were reduced by approximately 85% in subjects who drank green tea daily for two weeks. Drinking green tea with nadolol also significantly reduced nadolol's systolic blood pressure lowering effect. Other clinical research shows that a single dose of green tea can affect plasma nadolol levels for at least one hour. Green tea catechins have been shown to inhibit organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATP), one of which, OATP1A2, is involved in the uptake of nadolol in the intestine The interaction is thought to be due primarily to the epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) content of green tea.

Theoretically, high doses of green tea might increase the effects and side effects of 5-fluorouracil.
Animal research shows that taking green tea in amounts equivalent to about 6 cups daily in humans for 4 weeks prior to receiving a single injection of 5-fluorouracil increases the maximum plasma levels of 5-fluorouracil by about 2.5-fold and the area under the curve by 425%.

Theoretically, green tea might decrease the vasodilatory effects of adenosine and interfere with its use prior to stress testing.
Green tea contains caffeine. Caffeine is a competitive inhibitor of adenosine at the cellular level. However, caffeine doesn't seem to affect supplemental adenosine because high interstitial levels of adenosine overcome the antagonistic effects of caffeine. It is recommended that methylxanthines and methylxanthine-containing products be stopped 24 hours prior to pharmacological stress tests. However, methylxanthines appear more likely to interfere with dipyridamole (Persantine) than adenosine-induced stress testing.

Theoretically, green tea may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Conflicting reports exist regarding the effect of green tea on bleeding risk when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs; however, most evidence suggests that drinking green tea in moderate amounts is unlikely to cause a significant interaction. Green tea contains small amounts of vitamin K, approximately 7 mcg per cup. Some case reports have associated the antagonism of warfarin with the vitamin K content of green tea. However, these reports are rare, and very large doses of green tea (about 8-16 cups daily) appear to be needed to cause these effects. Furthermore, the catechins and caffeine in green tea are reported to have antiplatelet activity.

Green tea contains caffeine. Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of caffeine might increase cardiac inotropic effects of beta-agonists.

Theoretically, green tea might interfere with the effects of bortezomib.
In vitro research shows that green tea polyphenols, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), interact with bortezomib and block its proteasome inhibitory action. This prevents the induction of cell death in multiple myeloma or glioblastoma cancer cell lines. Advise patients taking bortezomib, not to take green tea.

Theoretically, green tea might reduce the effects of carbamazepine and increase the risk for convulsions.
Green tea contains caffeine. Animal research suggests that taking caffeine can lower the anticonvulsant effects of carbamazepine and can induce seizures when taken in doses above 400 mg/kg. Human research has shown that taking caffeine 300 mg in three divided doses along with carbamazepine 200 mg reduces the bioavailability of carbamazepine by 32% and prolongs the plasma half-life of carbamazepine 2-fold in healthy individuals.

Theoretically, green tea might reduce the levels and clinical effects of celiprolol.
In a small human study, taking green tea daily for 4 days appears to decrease blood and urine levels of celiprolol by at least 98%. This interaction is possibly due to the inhibition of organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP). Green tea catechins have been shown to inhibit organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATP), one of which, OATP1A2, is found in the intestine The interaction is thought to be due primarily to the epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) content of green tea.

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the effects and adverse effects of caffeine in green tea.
Green tea contains caffeine. Cimetidine can reduce caffeine clearance by 31% to 42%.

Theoretically, green tea might increase the levels and adverse effects of clozapine and acutely exacerbate psychotic symptoms.
Animal research suggests that, although green tea extract does not affect the elimination of clozapine, it delays the time to reach peak concentration and reduces the peak plasma levels. Also, concomitant administration of green tea and clozapine might theoretically cause acute exacerbation of psychotic symptoms due to the caffeine in green tea. Caffeine can increase the effects and toxicity of clozapine. Caffeine doses of 400-1000 mg daily inhibit clozapine metabolism. Clozapine is metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2). Researchers speculate that caffeine might inhibit CYP1A2. However, there is no reliable evidence that caffeine affects CYP1A2. There is also speculation that genetic factors might make some patients be more sensitive to the interaction between clozapine and caffeine.

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the effects and adverse effects of caffeine found in green tea.
Green tea contains caffeine. Oral contraceptives can decrease caffeine clearance by 40% to 65%.

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Green tea contains caffeine. Caffeine is metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2),. Theoretically, drugs that inhibit CYP1A2 may decrease the clearance rate of caffeine from green tea and increase caffeine levels.

Theoretically, green tea might decrease the vasodilatory effects of dipyridamole and interfere with its use prior to stress testing.
Green tea contains caffeine. Caffeine might inhibit dipyridamole-induced vasodilation. It is recommended that methylxanthines and methylxanthine-containing products be stopped 24 hours prior to pharmacological stress tests. Methylxanthines appear more likely to interfere with dipyridamole (Persantine) than adenosine-induced stress testing.

Theoretically, disulfiram might increase the risk of adverse effects from caffeine.
In human research, disulfiram decreases the clearance and increases the half-life of caffeine.

Theoretically, using green tea with diuretic drugs might increase the risk of hypokalemia.
Green tea contains caffeine. In excessive amounts, caffeine can reduce potassium levels due to stimulation of the sodium-potassium pump. Diuretics can also cause lower potassium levels.

Theoretically, estrogens might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Green tea contains caffeine. Estrogen inhibits caffeine metabolism.

Theoretically, green tea might reduce the effects of ethosuximide and increase the risk for convulsions.
Green tea contains caffeine. Animal research suggests that caffeine 92.4 mg/kg can decrease the anticonvulsant activity of ethosuximide. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, green tea might reduce the effects of felbamate and increase the risk for convulsions.
Green tea contains caffeine. Animal research suggests that a high dose of caffeine 161.7 mg/kg can decreases the anticonvulsant activity of felbamate. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

Green tea can decrease blood levels of fexofenadine.
Clinical research shows that green tea can significantly decrease blood levels and excretion of fexofenadine. Taking green tea extract with a dose of fexofenadine decreased bioavailability of fexofenadine by about 30%. In vitro, green tea inhibits the cellular accumulation of fexofenadine by inhibiting the organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP) drug transporter. Research shows that two of the major catechins found in green tea, epicatechin gallate (ECG) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), inhibit OATPs, specifically OATP1A2, OATP1B1, and OATP2B1. In addition, green tea has been shown to reduce the absorption of some drugs that are OATP substrates.

Theoretically, green tea might increase the levels and adverse effects of flutamide.
Green tea contains caffeine. In vitro evidence suggests that caffeine can inhibit the metabolism of flutamide. Theoretically, concomitant use of caffeine and flutamide might increase serum concentrations of flutamide and increase the risk adverse effects.

Theoretically, fluvoxamine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Green tea contains caffeine. Fluvoxamine reduces caffeine metabolism.

Theoretically, concomitant use might have additive adverse hepatotoxic effects.
Green tea extract supplements have been linked to several cases of hepatotoxicity and might have additive hepatotoxic effects with other drugs..

Theoretically, green tea might reduce the levels and clinical effects of imatinib.
In animal research, a single dose of green tea extract reduces the area under the curve (AUC) of imatinib by up to approximately 64% and its main metabolite N-desmethyl imatinib by up to approximately 81%. This interaction has not been shown in humans. The mechanism of action is unclear but may involve multiple pathways.

Concomitant use of MAOIs with yohimbe can result in additive effects.
Yohimbine, a constituent of yohimbe, has MAO inhibitory effects. At high doses, yohimbine is a non-selective inhibitor of MAO.

Theoretically, yohimbe might reduce the effects of antihypertensive drugs.
Yohimbine, a constituent of yohimbe, is an alpha-2 adrenoceptor antagonist and has been reported to increase blood pressure in clinical research. Theoretically, concomitant use of yohimbe and antihypertensive drugs can interfere with blood pressure control.

Theoretically, yohimbe might precipitate clonidine withdrawal.
Chronic clonidine use can downregulate alpha-2 adrenoreceptors. Animal research and one human case report suggest that concomitant administration of yohimbine, an alpha-2 adrenoceptor antagonist, may precipitate clonidine withdrawal and lead to sympathomimetic toxicity, including hypertensive crisis.

CYP2D6 inhibitors may increase the levels and adverse effects of yohimbine, a constituent of yohimbe.
In vitro and clinical research shows that the yohimbe bark constituent, yohimbine, is metabolized by CYP2D6 isoenzymes. Paroxetine, a cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 inhibitor, increases the maximum serum concentration of yohimbine and reduces the clearance of yohimbine compared to yohimbine alone in patients who are extensive CYP2D6 metabolizers..

Theoretically, yohimbe might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP2D6 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that yohimbine, a constituent of yohimbe bark, inhibits CYP2D6 enzyme activity.

Theoretically, CYP3A4 inhibitors might increase the levels and adverse effects of yohimbine, a constituent of yohimbe bark.
In vitro and clinical research shows that the yohimbe bark constituent, yohimbine, is metabolized by CYP3A4 enzymes. Theoretically, drugs that inhibit CYP3A4 might increase the levels and adverse effects of yohimbine.

Paroxetine decreases the clearance of yohimbine and may increase its effects.
Paroxetine, a cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 inhibitor, increases the maximum serum concentration of yohimbine by about 350% and reduces the clearance of yohimbine by about 80% compared to yohimbine alone in patients who are extensive CYP2D6 metabolizers. No significant changes in pharmacokinetic parameters of yohimbine were observed with coadministration of paroxetine in patients who are poor CYP2D6 metabolizers.

Theoretically, using yohimbine with phenothiazines might have additive effects.
Yohimbine, a constituent of yohimbe, has alpha-2 adrenergic antagonist effects. Theoretically, combining it with phenothiazines can cause additive alpha-2 adrenergic antagonism.

Theoretically, taking yohimbe with stimulant drugs can have additive effects.
Yohimbine, a constituent of yohimbe, has sympathomimetic effects and increases blood pressure in a dose-dependent manner. Theoretically, taking yohimbe with stimulant drugs can have additive stimulant and hypertensive effects.

Theoretically, taking yohimbe with TCAs can increase adverse effects.
A small clinical study in patients taking TCAs for at least 4 weeks shows that receiving doses of intravenous yohimbine 2.5-20 mg daily for up to 7 days precipitates severe anxiety, agitation, and tremor. The effects of yohimbe bark itself are unclear; oral yohimbe bark contains 0.6% to 1.38% yohimbine, but it is unclear how much is absorbed.

Theoretically, combining yohimbe bark with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs might have additive effects; however, this has not been reported in clinical research.
Research in healthy adults shows that taking yohimbine, a constituent of yohimbe bark, in doses of 8 mg or more, seems to inhibit platelet aggregation in vitro by binding to the alpha-2 adrenoceptor. The effects of yohimbe bark itself are unclear; yohimbe bark contains 0.6% to 1.38% yohimbine, but it is unclear how much is absorbed.

Theoretically, yohimbe might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that yohimbe extract induces CYP1A2 enzymes.

Theoretically, yohimbe might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research shows that yohimbe extract induces CYP3A4 enzymes.

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
In vitro research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to inhibit platelet aggregation. This has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Animal research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, can reduce blood glucose levels. Monitor blood glucose levels closely. Dose adjustments might be necessary.

Theoretically, black pepper might increase blood levels of atorvastatin.
Animal research shows that taking piperine, a constituent of black pepper, 35 mg/kg can increase the maximum serum concentration of atorvastatin three-fold. This has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the effects and side effects of cyclosporine.
In vitro research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases the bioavailability of cyclosporine. This has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro research suggests that some constituents of black pepper inhibit CYP2D6. This has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research and pharmacokinetic simulation data suggest that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, as well as the pepper fruit seem to inhibit CYP3A4. This has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, black pepper might increase blood levels of lithium due to its diuretic effects. The dose of lithium might need to be reduced.
Black pepper is thought to have diuretic properties.

Black pepper might increase blood levels of nevirapine.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases the plasma concentration of nevirapine. However, no adverse effects were observed in this study.

Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
In vitro research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to inhibit P-glycoprotein.

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the sedative effects of pentobarbital.
Animal research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases pentobarbital-induced sleeping time.

Black pepper might increase blood levels of phenytoin.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption, slow elimination, and increase levels of phenytoin. Taking a single dose of black pepper 1 gram along with phenytoin seems to double the serum concentration of phenytoin. Consuming a soup with black pepper providing piperine 44 mg/200 mL of soup along with phenytoin also seems to increase phenytoin levels when compared with consuming the same soup without black pepper.

Black pepper might increase blood levels of propranolol.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption and slow elimination of propranolol.

Black pepper might increase blood levels of rifampin.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption and serum levels of rifampin.

Black pepper might increase blood levels of theophylline.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption and slow elimination of theophylline.

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the effects and side effects of amoxicillin.
Animal research shows that taking piperine, a constituent of black pepper, with amoxicillin increases plasma levels of amoxicillin. This has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, black pepper might increase blood levels of carbamazepine, potentially increasing the effects and side effects of carbamazepine.
One clinical study in patients taking carbamazepine 300 mg or 500 mg twice daily shows that taking a single 20 mg dose of purified piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases carbamazepine levels. Piperine may increase carbamazepine absorption by increasing blood flow to the GI tract, increasing the surface area of the small intestine, or inhibiting cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) in the gut wall. Absorption was significantly increased by 7-10 mcg/mL/hour. The time to eliminate carbamazepine was also increased by 4-8 hours. Although carbamazepine levels were increased, this did not appear to increase side effects. In vitro research also shows that piperine can increase carbamazepine levels by 11% in a time-dependent manner.

Theoretically, black pepper might decrease levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
In vitro research suggests that black pepper induces CYP1A2. This has not been reported in humans.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of amiodarone, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of amiodarone.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice inhibits metabolism and increases absorption of amiodarone. Grapefruit juice increases amiodarone plasma levels by 50% and peak concentration by 84%.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of oral artemether, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of artemether.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases the levels of oral artemether by 90% to 250% in healthy males.

Grapefruit juice might increase blood levels of some oral benzodiazepines, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of these drugs.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice can increase plasma triazolam concentrations. Repeated consumption of grapefruit juice greatly increases triazolam concentrations and prolongs the half-life, probably due to inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Some studies show that grapefruit juice, particularly when taken in large quantities, reduces the clearance and increases the maximum blood levels, area under the plasma concentration curve (AUC), and duration of effect of midazolam. However, there is no effect on intravenous midazolam. Grapefruit juice has also been shown to increase the maximum blood levels and duration of effect of diazepam, but the clinical significance of this is not known. This interaction does not appear to occur with alprazolam.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of buspirone, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of buspirone.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases absorption and plasma concentrations of buspirone.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of oral calcium channel blockers, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of these drugs.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases absorption and plasma concentrations of amlodipine, nifedipine, nisoldipine, verapamil, felodipine, nimodipine, nicardipine, diltiazem, pranidipine, nitrendipine, and manidipine, This interaction is likely the result of the inhibition of intestinal metabolism of these drugs by CYP3A4, although some research suggests grapefruit may alter plasma drug levels by reducing the rate of gastric emptying. Consuming grapefruit juice 1 liter daily increases steady state concentrations of verapamil by as much as 50%. However, some references dispute the clinical relevance of the interactions with amlodipine, diltiazem, and verapamil. Other research in healthy individuals suggests plasma levels of felodipine and nifedipine are not affected when given intravenously. There is considerable interindividual variability in the effect of grapefruit juice on drug metabolism, which might account for inconsistent study results. In healthy older adults, the hemodynamic response to felodipine plus grapefruit juice might be influenced by altered autonomic regulation. In older healthy adults, a single dose of grapefruit juice and felodipine enhanced the blood pressure-lowering effects of felodipine. However, after a week of grapefruit juice and felodipine (steady state), the hypotensive activity was reduced, possibly due to compensatory tachycardia. Research indicates it is necessary to withhold grapefruit juice for as long as 3 days to avoid interactions with felodipine and nisoldipine.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of carbamazepine, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of carbamazepine.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases absorption and plasma concentrations of carbamazepine.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of carvedilol, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of carvedilol.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases the bioavailability of a single dose of carvedilol by 16%.

Grapefruit juice can decrease blood levels of celiprolol, potentially decreasing the clinical effects of celiprolol.
In human research, taking grapefruit juice within two hours of celiprolol appears to decrease absorption and blood levels of celiprolol by approximately 85%. This interaction is due to grapefruit-induced inhibition of organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP). Grapefruit juice is thought to affect OATP for only a short time. Therefore, separating drug administration and consumption of grapefruit by at least 4 hours is likely to prevent this interaction.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of cisapride, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of cisapride.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases the absorption and plasma concentrations of cisapride. According to the cisapride prescribing information, grapefruit juice is contraindicated in patients taking cisapride.

Theoretically, grapefruit juice might increase blood levels of clomipramine, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of clomipramine.
Case reports have shown that clomipramine trough levels increase significantly after the addition of grapefruit juice to the therapeutic regimen.

Grapefruit juice can decrease blood levels of the active metabolite of clopidogrel, thereby decreasing the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel.
Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet prodrug that is metabolized primarily by cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) to form the active metabolite. A small clinical study shows that taking grapefruit juice with clopidogrel decreases plasma levels of the active metabolite by more than 80% and impairs the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel. This effect is possibly due to grapefruit-induced inhibition of CYP2C19.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of oral cyclosporine, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of cyclosporine.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases the absorption and plasma concentrations of cyclosporine. The mechanism of action is unclear. However, there is no effect on intravenous cyclosporine.

Grapefruit juice can increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice can inhibit CYP3A4 metabolism of drugs, causing increased drug levels and potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects. When taken orally, effects of grapefruit juice on CYP3A4 levels appear to last at least 48 hours. Grapefruit's ability to inhibit CYP3A4 has even been harnessed to intentionally increase levels of venetoclax, which is metabolized by CYP3A4, in an elderly patient with acute myeloid leukemia who could not afford full dose venetoclax. The lower dose of venetoclax in combination with grapefruit juice resulted in serum levels of venetoclax in the therapeutic reference range of full dose venetoclax and positive treatment outcomes for the patient.
Professional consensus recommends the consideration of patient age, existing medical conditions, additional medications, and the potential for additive adverse effects when evaluating the risks of concomitant use of grapefruit juice with any medication metabolized by CYP3A4. While all patients are at risk for interactions with grapefruit juice consumption, patients older than 70 years of age and those taking multiple medications are at the greatest risk for a serious or fatal interaction with grapefruit juice.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of dextromethorphan, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of dextromethorphan.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice can inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) metabolism, causing increased dextromethorphan levels.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of estrogens, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of estrogens.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit increases the levels of endogenous and exogenous estrogens by inhibiting cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzymes. Grapefruit juice increases exogenously administered 17-beta-estradiol by about 20% in females without ovaries and ethinyl-estradiol in healthy females.

Grapefruit juice can decrease blood levels of etoposide, potentially decreasing the clinical effects of etoposide.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice decreases the absorption and plasma concentrations of etoposide. There is some evidence that grapefruit juice co-administered with oral etoposide can reduce levels of etoposide by about 26%. Grapefruit juice seems to inhibit organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP), which is a drug transporter in the gut, liver, and kidney. Grapefruit juice is thought to affect OATP for only a short time. Therefore, separating drug administration and consumption of grapefruit by at least 4 hours is likely to prevent this interaction.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of halofantrine, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of halofantrine.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice inhibits cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) metabolism, which increases halofantrine levels and peak concentration, as well as a marker of ventricular tachyarrhythmia potential.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of statins that are metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of these statins. Additionally, grapefruit juice might interfere with the bioavailability of statins that are substrates of organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATP).
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice inhibits metabolism and increases absorption and plasma concentrations of statins that are metabolized by CYP3A4. These include lovastatin, simvastatin, and atorvastatin. Keep in mind that there is considerable variability in the effect of grapefruit juice on drug metabolism, so individual patient response is difficult to predict.
Some statins, including pravastatin, fluvastatin, pitavastatin, and rosuvastatin, are not metabolized by CYP3A4. However, grapefruit juice might still affect the bioavailability of these statins. These statins are substrates of OATP. Grapefruit juice can inhibit OATP. Therefore, grapefruit juice may reduce the bioavailability or increase drug levels of these statins depending on the type of OATP. However, grapefruit juice affects OATP for only a short time. Therefore, separating drug administration by at least 4 hours is likely to avoid this interaction.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of methadone, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of methadone.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice inhibits the metabolism of methadone, increasing methadone levels and peak concentrations. In one case, a 51-year-old male taking methadone 90 mg daily and no other medications was found unresponsive. The patient reported drinking grapefruit juice 500 mL daily for 3 days prior to the event. Methadone is a substrate of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), and grapefruit juice-induced inhibition of CYP3A4 is the likely cause of this interaction.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of methylprednisolone, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of methylprednisolone.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice can increase the plasma concentration of orally administered methylprednisolone. Grapefruit juice 200 mL three times daily given with methylprednisolone 16 mg increased methylprednisolone half-life by 35%, peak plasma concentration by 27%, and total area under the curve by 75%.

Grapefruit juice can decrease levels of drugs that are substrates of OATP.
In vitro and clinical research show that consuming grapefruit juice inhibits OATP, which reduces the bioavailability of oral drugs that are substrates of OATP. Various clinical studies have shown reduced absorption of OATP substrates when taken with grapefruit, including fexofenadine, acebutolol, aliskiren, celiprolol, levothyroxine, nadolol, and pitavastatin. Grapefruit juice is thought to affect OATP for only a short time. Therefore, separating drug administration and consumption of grapefruit by at least 4 hours is likely to prevent this interaction.

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of praziquantel, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of praziquantel.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice can inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) metabolism of praziquantel. Plasma concentrations of praziquantel can increase by as much as 160% when administered with 250 mL of commercially available grapefruit juice.

Grapefruit or grapefruit juice, especially if consumed in large amounts, can cause additive QT interval prolongation when taken with QT interval-prolonging drugs, potentially increasing the risk of ventricular arrhythmias.
Clinical research in healthy volunteers shows that drinking 6 liters of grapefruit juice over 6 hours prolonged the QTc by a peak amount of 14 milliseconds (ms). This prolongation was similar to the QT prolongation caused by the drug moxifloxacin. In individuals with long QT syndrome, a smaller dose of grapefruit juice, 1.5 liters, resulted in a greater peak QTc prolongation of about 30 ms. The effect of smaller quantities of grapefruit juice on the QT interval is unclear.

Grapefruit juice may increase blood levels of quetiapine, increasing the effects and adverse effects of quetiapine.
Quetiapine is metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Grapefruit can inhibit CYP3A4. In one case report, a healthy 28-year-old female with bipolar disorder stabilized on quetiapine 800 mg daily presented with quetiapine toxicity considered to be related to consuming a gallon of grapefruit juice over the past 24 hours.

Grapefruit juice can alter blood levels of quinidine, potentially increasing or decreasing the clinical effects of quinidine.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice decreases quinidine absorption, clearance, and metabolism, and prolongs the half-life by about 20%.

Bitter orange might increase blood levels of midazolam.
One small clinical study shows that bitter orange juice can increase midazolam levels, likely through inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of midazolam-related adverse effects.

Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Bitter orange contains tyramine, octopamine, and synephrine, which are MAO substrates.

Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Some clinical research shows that drinking a tea containing bitter orange and Indian snakeroot reduces fasting and postprandial glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes who are using antidiabetes drugs. However, it is unclear if these effects are due to bitter orange, Indian snakeroot, or the combination. An animal study also shows that p-synephrine in combination with gliclazide , a sulfonylurea, causes an additional 20% to 44% decrease in glucose levels when compared with gliclazide alone.

Bitter orange might increase blood pressure and heart rate when taken with caffeine.
Small clinical studies show that taking bitter orange in combination with caffeine can increase blood pressure and heart rate in otherwise healthy normotensive adults. Theoretically, this might increase the risk of serious cardiovascular adverse effects.

Bitter orange might affect colchicine levels.
Colchicine is a substrate of P-glycoprotein and cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Bitter orange has been reported to inhibit CYP3A4 and increase levels of CYP3A4 substrates. However, one small clinical study in healthy adults shows that drinking bitter orange juice 240 mL twice daily for 4 days and taking a single dose of colchicine 0.6 mg on the 4th day decreases colchicine peak serum levels by 24%, time to peak serum level by 1 hour, and overall exposure to colchicine by 20%. The clinical significance of this finding is unclear.

Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Small clinical studies suggest that single or multiple doses of freshly squeezed bitter orange juice 200-240 mL can inhibit CYP3A4 metabolism of drugs, causing increased drug levels and potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects. However, the extent of the effect of bitter orange on CYP3A4-mediated drug interactions is unknown. Some evidence suggests that bitter orange selectively inhibits intestinal CYP3A4, but not hepatic CYP3A4. Its effect on P-glycoprotein, which strongly overlaps with CYP3A4 interactions, is unclear. One small clinical study shows that drinking 8 ounces of freshly squeezed bitter orange juice has no effect on cyclosporine, which seems to be more dependent on hepatic CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein than intestinal CYP3A4.

Bitter orange might increase blood levels of dextromethorphan.
One small clinical study shows that bitter orange juice increases dextromethorphan levels, likely through cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) inhibition. Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk for dextromethorphan-related adverse effects.

Bitter orange might increase blood levels of felodipine.
One small clinical study shows that bitter orange juice increases felodipine levels, likely through cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) inhibition. Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk for felodipine-related adverse effects.

Bitter orange might increase blood levels of indinavir.
One small clinical study shows that bitter orange juice slightly increases indinavir levels, but this effect is likely to be clinically insignificant. Bitter orange selectively inhibits intestinal cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4); however, the metabolism of indinavir seems to be more dependent on hepatic CYP3A4. The effect of bitter orange on other protease inhibitors has not been studied.

Theoretically, bitter orange might have an additive effect when combined with drugs that prolong the QT interval, potentially increasing the risk of ventricular arrhythmias.
One case report suggests that taking bitter orange in combination with other stimulants such as caffeine might prolong the QT interval in some patients.

Bitter orange juice might increase blood levels of sildenafil.
A small clinical study in healthy adult males shows that drinking freshly squeezed bitter orange juice 250 mL daily for 3 days and taking a single dose of sildenafil 50 mg on the 3rd day increases the peak plasma concentration of sildenafil by 18% and the overall exposure to sildenafil by 44%. Theoretically, this may be due to inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 by bitter orange.

Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypertension and adverse cardiovascular effects when taken with stimulant drugs.
Bitter orange appears to have stimulant effects.

Theoretically, bitter orange might increase levels of drug metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro research shows that octopamine, a constituent of bitter orange, weakly inhibits CYP2D6 enzymes. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, higenamine might increase the risk of bleeding or bruising when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.
Animal research shows that higenamine inhibits platelet aggregation and reduces the size of thrombus formation.

Theoretically, higenamine might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro research shows that higenamine inhibits CYP2D6 enzymes. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, higenamine might increase the levels and clinical effects drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research shows that higenamine inhibits CYP3A4 enzymes by 21%. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, higenamine might increase the risk of cardiovascular toxicity when taken with stimulant drugs.
Higenamine has stimulant effects due to agonist activity at beta2-adrenoreceptors. In cardiac muscle, higenamine appears to have a positive inotropic effect and increase heart rate. However, it does not appear to increase blood pressure.

Theoretically, the positive inotropic effects of higenamine might be reduced by propranolol.
Animal research shows that higenamine has a positive inotropic effect on the heart, and administering propranolol appears to block this cardiac effect. In animals, propranolol also appears to inhibit corpus cavernosum relaxation induced by higenamine.

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk for stimulant adverse effects.
Use of ephedrine with caffeine can increase the risk of stimulatory adverse effects. There is evidence that using ephedrine with caffeine might increase the risk of serious life-threatening or debilitating adverse effects such as hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, seizures, and death.

Theoretically, caffeine might decrease the vasodilatory effects of adenosine and interfere with its use prior to stress testing.
Some evidence shows that caffeine is a competitive inhibitor of adenosine and can reduce the vasodilatory effects of adenosine in humans. However, other research shows that caffeine does not seem to affect supplemental adenosine because high interstitial levels of adenosine overcome the antagonistic effects of caffeine. It is recommended that methylxanthines and methylxanthine-containing products be stopped 24 hours prior to pharmacological stress tests. However, methylxanthines appear more likely to interfere with dipyridamole (Persantine) than adenosine-induced stress testing.

Theoretically, caffeine may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Caffeine is reported to have antiplatelet activity. Theoretically, it might increase the risk of bleeding when used concomitantly with these agents; however, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, large amounts of caffeine might increase the cardiac inotropic effects of beta-agonists.

Theoretically, caffeine might reduce the effects of carbamazepine and increase the risk for convulsions.
Animal research suggests that taking caffeine can lower the anticonvulsant effects of carbamazepine and can induce seizures when taken in doses above 400 mg/kg. Human research has shown that taking caffeine 300 mg in three divided doses along with carbamazepine 200 mg reduces the bioavailability of carbamazepine by 32% and prolongs the plasma half-life of carbamazepine 2-fold in healthy individuals.

Theoretically, cimetidine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Cimetidine decreases the rate of caffeine clearance by 31% to 42%.

Caffeine might increase the levels and adverse effects of clozapine and acutely exacerbate psychotic symptoms.
Caffeine might increase the effects and toxicity of clozapine. Caffeine doses of 400-1000 mg per day inhibit clozapine metabolism. Clozapine is metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2). Although researchers speculate that caffeine might inhibit CYP1A2, there is no reliable evidence that caffeine affects CYP1A2. There is also speculation that genetic factors might make some patients more sensitive to an interaction between clozapine and caffeine. In one case report, severe, life-threatening clozapine toxicity and multiorgan system failure occurred in a patient with schizophrenia stabilized on clozapine who consumed caffeine 600 mg daily.

Theoretically, caffeine might decrease the vasodilatory effects of dipyridamole and interfere with its use prior to stress testing.
Caffeine inhibits dipyridamole-induced vasodilation. It is recommended that methylxanthines and methylxanthine-containing products be stopped 24 hours prior to pharmacological stress tests. Methylxanthines appear more likely to interfere with dipyridamole (Persantine) than adenosine-induced stress testing.

Theoretically, disulfiram use might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Disulfiram decreases the rate of caffeine clearance.

Theoretically, using caffeine with diuretic drugs might increase the risk of hypokalemia.
Caffeine, especially in excessive amounts, can reduce potassium levels due to stimulation of the sodium-potassium pump. Diuretics can also cause lower potassium levels.

Theoretically, estrogens might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Estrogen inhibits caffeine metabolism.

Theoretically, caffeine might reduce the effects of ethosuximide and increase the risk for convulsions.
Animal research suggests that caffeine 92.4 mg/kg can decrease the anticonvulsant activity of ethosuximide. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, caffeine might reduce the effects of felbamate and increase the risk for convulsions.
Animal research suggests that a high dose of caffeine 161.7 mg/kg can decreases the anticonvulsant activity of felbamate. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, caffeine might increase the levels and adverse effects of flutamide.
In vitro evidence suggests that caffeine can inhibit the metabolism of flutamide. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

Theoretically, fluvoxamine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Fluvoxamine reduces caffeine metabolism.

Abrupt caffeine withdrawal might increase the levels and adverse effects of lithium.
Caffeine has diuretic activity. When abruptly discontinued, caffeine may alter the clearance of lithium. There are two case reports of lithium tremor that worsened upon abrupt coffee withdrawal and 6 case reports of elevated serum lithium levels after reducing or eliminating caffeine intake. In one case, a male with schizoaffective disorder stabilized on lithium had an elevated lithium level after reducing his caffeine intake by 87%. At a later date, he increased his caffeine intake by 6-fold, resulting in a subtherapeutic lithium level and a recurrence of psychiatric symptoms.

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of a hypertensive crisis.
Caffeine has been shown to inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and B in laboratory studies. Concomitant intake of large amounts of caffeine with MAOIs might precipitate a hypertensive crisis. In a case report, a patient that consumed 10-12 cups of caffeinated coffee and took the MAOI tranylcypromine presented with severe hypertension. Hypertension was resolved after the patient switched to drinking decaffeinated coffee.

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of hypertension.
Concomitant use of caffeine and nicotine has been shown to have additive cardiovascular effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure. Blood pressure was increased by 10.8/12.4 mmHg when the agents were used concomitantly.

Theoretically, caffeine might decrease the effects of pentobarbital.
Caffeine might negate the hypnotic effects of pentobarbital.

Theoretically, caffeine might reduce the effects of phenobarbital and increase the risk for convulsions.
Animal research suggests that caffeine can decrease the anticonvulsant activity of phenobarbital. However, the exact mechanism of this interaction is unclear.

Theoretically, phenylpropanolamine might increase the risk of hypertension, as well as the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Concomitant use of phenylpropanolamine and caffeine might cause an additive increase in blood pressure. Phenylpropanolamine also seems to increase caffeine serum levels.

Theoretically, caffeine might reduce the effects of phenytoin and increase the risk for convulsions.
Animal research suggests that caffeine can decrease the anticonvulsant activity of phenytoin. The effect does not seem to be related to the seizure threshold-lowering effects of caffeine. However, the exact mechanism of this interaction is unclear.

Theoretically, caffeine might increase the levels and clinical effects of pioglitazone.
Animal research suggests that caffeine can modestly increase the maximum concentration, area under the curve, and half-life of pioglitazone, and also reduce its clearance. This increased the antidiabetic effects of pioglitazone. However, the exact mechanism of this interaction is unclear.

Theoretically, quinolone antibiotics might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Quinolones (also called fluoroquinolones) can decrease caffeine clearance by inhibiting cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme.

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the levels and adverse effects of both caffeine and riluzole.
Caffeine and riluzole are both metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2), and concomitant use might reduce the metabolism of one or both agents.

Hordenine is structurally similar to tyramine In vitro research shows that hordenine is a selective substrate for monoamine oxidase-B in the liver. Theoretically, concomitant use of hordenine with MAOIs might increase blood pressure, potentially leading to a hypertensive crisis.
Some MAOIs include isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), and tranylcypromine (Parnate).

Hordenine is structurally similar to N-methyltyramine and synephrine, constituents in bitter orange known to have stimulant properties. Theoretically, taking hordenine with drugs with stimulant properties might increase the risk of hypertension and other adverse cardiovascular effects.
Some of these drugs include amphetamine, caffeine, methylphenidate, pseudoephedrine, and many others.

Hordenine weakly inhibits cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) enzymes in vitro. Theoretically, hordenine might increase the levels of CYP2D6 substrates.
Some of drugs that are CYP2D6 substrates include amitriptyline (Elavil), clozapine (Clozaril), codeine, desipramine (Norpramin), donepezil (Aricept), fentanyl (Duragesic), flecainide (Tambocor), fluoxetine (Prozac), meperidine (Demerol), methadone (Dolophine), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), olanzapine (Zyprexa), ondansetron (Zofran), tramadol (Ultram), trazodone (Desyrel), and others.

Theoretically, capsicum may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro research shows that capsicum might increase the effects of antiplatelet drugs. Also, population research shows that capsicum is associated with an increased risk of self-reported bleeding in patients taking warfarin. However, clinical research shows that taking a single dose of capsaicin (Asian Herbex Ltd.), the active ingredient in capsicum, 400-800 mcg orally in combination with aspirin 500 mg does not decrease platelet aggregation when compared with taking aspirin 500 mg alone. Also, there was no notable effect on measures of platelet aggregation with capsaicin. It is unclear whether capsaicin must be used in more than a single dose to affect platelet aggregation.

Theoretically, taking capsicum with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Preliminary clinical research shows that consuming capsicum 5 grams along with a glucose drink attenuates the rise in plasma glucose after 30 minutes by 21%, decreases the 2-hour postprandial area under the curve of plasma glucose by 11%, and increases the 2-hour postprandial area under the curve of plasma insulin by 58% in healthy individuals when compared with placebo. Other clinical research shows that taking capsicum 5 mg daily for 28 days significantly reduces postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels, but not fasting blood glucose and insulin levels, in patients with gestational diabetes.

Theoretically, taking capsicum with aspirin might reduce the bioavailability of aspirin.
Animal research shows that acute or chronic intake of capsicum pepper reduces oral aspirin bioavailability. This has not been shown in humans.

Theoretically, taking capsicum with theophylline might increase the levels and adverse effects of theophylline.
In animal research, oral administration of capsicum reduced excretion of theophylline. However, capsicum does not seem to affect the pharmacokinetics of theophylline when administered intravenously.

Theoretically, using topical capsaicin may increase the risk of ACE inhibitor-induced cough.
There is one case report of a topically applied capsaicin cream contributing to the cough reflex in a patient using an ACEI. However, it is unclear if this interaction is clinically significant.

Theoretically, taking capsicum with ciprofloxacin might increase levels and adverse effects of ciprofloxacin.
Animal research shows that concomitant use of capsaicin, the active constituent of capsicum, and ciprofloxacin increases the bioavailability of ciprofloxacin by up to 70%.