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Dietary supplement

Artichoke Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized

Capsule Category: Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Artichoke is a dietary supplement by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for high cholesterol, indigestion and heartburn, constipation and bloating.Based on those ingredients, 363 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Artichoke Leaf Extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Artichoke by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized

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 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This product contains one active ingredient: artichoke leaf extract, a concentrated form of the compound found in artichoke leaves. The capsule itself is made from vegetable cellulose, a plant-based material, with cellulose as an additional inactive ingredient.

Does it work?

Moderate 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 Artichoke's overall clinical evidence instead.

Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports Artichoke for:

Why this rating?
  • The label markets general wellness (“digestive health support”), not a specific health condition, so there is no single claim to grade against clinical-evidence data.
  • Since the label doesn't commit to one use, we graded the ingredient's overall clinical evidence instead.
  • On file: Dyspepsia — rated "Possibly Effective" (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Hyperlipidemia — rated "Possibly Effective" (Natural Medicines).

Artichoke leaf extract has possibly effective evidence for high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia) and indigestion (dyspepsia) — meaning the research suggests it may help, but the evidence isn't yet conclusive. For nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), we don't have enough reliable evidence in the data we hold to say whether it works.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Artichoke

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 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Artichoke extract is generally well tolerated when taken orally short-term, though quality and dosing vary between products. The most common side effects are mild stomach upset — abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, increased appetite, and nausea.

Rarely, people sensitive to artichoke inulin (a fiber in the plant) have experienced severe allergic reactions. If you're allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, daisies, marigolds, or other plants in the Asteraceae family, you may be at higher risk for an allergic reaction to artichoke.

During pregnancy, not enough safety information exists, so the data advises against using artichoke in supplement form. Safety during breastfeeding has not been established, so it's best avoided then too.

Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you're pregnant or nursing and wondering whether this product is right for you.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Artichoke

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?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Artichoke.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 363 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 this product, check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take blood pressure medications, diabetes medications, or any drug metabolized through the liver's CYP2C19 or CYP2B6 pathways — all carry Moderate interaction risks with artichoke leaf extract. Also mention if you have a known allergy to ragweed, chrysanthemums, or related plants, as you may react to artichoke.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

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

Artichoke leaf extract may be worth considering if you have high cholesterol or indigestion and want a plant-based option — the evidence leans possibly effective for both. If you take blood pressure or diabetes medications, or any drug processed by your liver's CYP2C19 or CYP2B6 pathways, check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting.

Avoid it during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless cleared by your healthcare provider.

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

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Feb 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 Artichoke, straight from the product label.

Brand GNC Herbal Plus Standardized
Barcode (UPC) 048107108861
Net contents 100 Vegetarian Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Feb 25, 2013
DSLD ID 18368
Product type Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Sugar Free
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 Artichoke by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized, 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)
UPC/BARCODE
048107108861
IngredientAmount% DV
Artichoke Leaf Extract600 mg--

Other ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose Capsule, Cellulose

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

KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

WARNING: Consult your physician prior to using this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.

Discontinue use two weeks prior to surgery.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

General Statements

ACTUAL SIZE

NEW

Digestive Health Support* Standardized Extract

CODE 188012 ANG

Potency verified by GNC procedure #5071. Conforms to USP <2091> for weight. Meets USP <2040> disintegration.

Brand IP Statement(s)

GNC HERBAL PLUS(R) STANDARDIZED

FDA Statement of Identity

HERBAL SUPPLEMENT

Formula

600 mg

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: As a dietary supplement, take one capsule daily.

Formulation

No Sugar, No Artificial Colors, No Artificial Flavors, Sodium Free, No Wheat, No Gluten, No Soy, No Dairy, Yeast Free.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

See for yourself

Artichoke by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Artichoke by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

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

Artichoke Leaf Extract

Interacts with
363 drugs
600 mg per serving Form: Caffeolyquinic acid derivatives

Artichoke leaf extract is a generally well-tolerated supplement that may have a mild cholesterol-lowering effect and is often used for indigestion, th...

Artichoke Leaf Extract monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose Capsule, Cellulose. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Artichoke by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Artichoke?

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
363Drugs
363 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

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

Artichoke Leaf Extract4 drug types · 363 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
A meta-analysis of small clinical studies shows that taking artichoke leaf extract for 8-12 weeks can modestly reduce fasting plasma glucose when compared with placebo.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
A meta-analysis of small clinical studies in patients with hypertension shows that taking artichoke can reduce systolic blood pressure by around 3 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by around 2 mmHg when compared with placebo.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2B6 (Cyp2B6) Substrates

Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
In vitro research shows that artichoke leaf extract inhibits CYP2B6 activity. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates

Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
In vitro research shows that artichoke leaf extract inhibits CYP2C19 activity. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Artichoke, from the product label.

GNC Herbal Plus Standardized

See all GNC Herbal Plus Standardized products
Phone Number
1-888-462-2548
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Artichoke by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized: Common Questions

Does Artichoke by GNC Herbal Plus Standardized interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Artichoke has a known interaction with 363 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Artichoke contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism 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.
Will artichoke lower my blood pressure?
Studies show artichoke can reduce blood pressure modestly — by about 3 mmHg for systolic (the top number) and 2 mmHg for diastolic (the bottom number) on average. If you already take blood pressure medications, this effect could add up, so let your doctor know before starting it.
What are the most common side effects?
Most people tolerate artichoke well, but some experience mild stomach upset: abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, nausea, or increased hunger. These tend to be minor and short-lived.
Is this safe if I'm allergic to ragweed?
You may be at higher risk for an allergic reaction. Artichoke is related to ragweed, chrysanthemums, daisies, and marigolds, so if you're sensitive to any of those plants, talk with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product.
Can it help with high cholesterol?
The evidence suggests it may help — it's rated possibly effective for high cholesterol. The research isn't conclusive yet, but it's worth discussing with your doctor if you're looking at natural options.
Can I take this while breastfeeding?
Safety during breastfeeding hasn't been established, so the data advises against it. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about what's right for you while nursing.
Does it help with digestion?
Artichoke leaf extract is rated possibly effective for indigestion (dyspepsia). This means research suggests it may help with digestive comfort, though the evidence isn't yet definitive.

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

Not sure if Artichoke is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

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.

Artichoke label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Artichoke'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 16 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.

Artichoke 16 references
  1. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
  2. Walker AF, Middleton RW, Petrowicz O. Artichoke leaf extract reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in a post-marketing surveillance study. Phytother Res 2001;15:58-61. PubMed
  3. Pittler MH, White AR, Stevinson C, Ernst E. Effectiveness of artichoke extract in preventing alcohol-induced hangovers: a randomized controlled trial. CMAJ 2003;169:1269-73.
  4. Romano, C., Ferrara, A., and Falagiani, P. A case of allergy to globe artichoke and other clinical cases of rare food allergy. J Investig.Allergol.Clin Immunol. 2000;10(2):102-104.
  5. Miralles, J. C., Garcia-Sells, J., Bartolome, B., and Negro, J. M. Occupational rhinitis and bronchial asthma due to artichoke (Cynara scolymus). Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2003;91(1):92-95. PubMed
  6. Franck, P., Moneret-Vautrin, D. A., Morisset, M., Kanny, G., Megret-Gabeaux, M. L., and Olivier, J. L. Anaphylactic reaction to inulin: first identification of specific IgEs to an inulin protein compound. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2005;136(2):155-158. PubMed
  7. Meding, B. Allergic contact dermatitis from artichoke, Cynara scolymus. Contact Dermatitis 1983;9(4):314.
  8. Quirce, S., Tabar, A. I., Olaguibel, J. M., and Cuevas, M. Occupational contact urticaria syndrome caused by globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus). J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1996;97(2):710-711. PubMed
  9. Held C. Von der 1. Deutsche-Ungarischen Phytopharmakon-Konferenz, Budapest, 20. November 1991. Z Klin Med 1992;47:92-93.
  10. Barrat E, Zaïr Y, Ogier N, et al. A combined natural supplement lowers LDL cholesterol in subjects with moderate untreated hypercholesterolemia: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2013;64(7):882-9. PubMed
  11. Huber R, Müller M, Naumann J, Schenk T, Lüdtke R. Artichoke leave extract for chronic hepatitis C - a pilot study. Phytomedicine. 2009 Sep;16(9):801-4. PubMed
  12. Caputo F, Barranco R, Bonsignore A, Fraternali Orcioni G, Ventura F. A rare case of fatal bowel obstruction secondary to a colonic bezoar. Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2018;39(1):38-40. PubMed
  13. Elsebai MF, Abass K, Hakkola J, Atawia AR, Farag MA. The wild Egyptian artichoke as a promising functional food for the treatment of hepatitis C virus as revealed via UPLC-MS and clinical trials. Food Funct. 2016;7(7):3006-16. PubMed
  14. Moradi M, Sohrabi G, Golbidi M, et al. Effects of artichoke on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med 2021;57:102668. PubMed
  15. Jalili C, Moradi S, Babaei A, et al. Effects of Cynara scolymus L. on glycemic indices: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Complement Ther Med 2020;52:102496. PubMed
  16. Gallo R, Oddenino G, Trave I, Gasparini G, Guadagno A, Parodi A. Contact sensitivity to sesquiterpene lactone mix and artichoke in a patient with severe recurrent dermatitis: A puzzling case. Contact Dermatitis 2023;88(2):156-158. PubMed

See these in context on the Artichoke monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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