BCAA Elite Ingredients & Drug Interactions
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking BCAA Elite against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.
Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy
BCAA Elite is a dietary supplement by InterActive Nutrition with 7 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for muscle recovery and sports performance, gut health and 'leaky gut', recovery from severe illness or injury.Based on those ingredients, 1,053 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Bioperine, L-Glutamine, L-Glycine. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against BCAA Elite by InterActive Nutrition
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with BCAA Elite by InterActive Nutrition — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.
AI summaries are generated from our interaction database for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of BCAA Elite by InterActive Nutrition
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.
What’s inside
Partial disclosure
BCAA Elite is a 7-ingredient powder built around branched-chain amino acids—three of them listed individually here: L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, and L-Valine. These are amino acids your body uses to build and repair muscle, and they're called "branched-chain" because of their chemical structure.
The formula also includes L-Glutamine and L-Glycine, two other amino acids that support muscle and immune function. Bioperine (a concentrated black pepper extract) is added to boost absorption, and D-Pinitol rounds out the active ingredients.
The powder also contains inactive ingredients—fillers and flavorings like maltodextrin, citric acid, and artificial sweeteners and colors—to make it taste good and hold together.
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
The evidence for BCAA Elite's individual ingredients is mixed and limited. L-Glutamine shows strong evidence for sickle cell disease, and possibly helpful evidence for recovery after surgery, severe infections, and wasting in HIV/AIDS—but those are specific medical situations, not everyday muscle or fitness use.
L-Glycine is possibly effective for schizophrenia but has insufficient evidence for ADHD, prostate health, and cystic fibrosis. Bioperine has insufficient evidence for allergies, asthma, athletic performance, headache, depression, and diarrhea.
The facts we hold don't establish whether this blend works for muscle building, recovery, or performance in otherwise healthy people.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
L-Glutamine is generally well tolerated in healthy adults but requires medical supervision if you have kidney or liver disease. Common side effects include belching, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, gas, nausea, vomiting, headache, and stomach pain—especially at high doses (10–30 grams daily).
Rarely, dizziness has occurred, and in two people with bipolar disorder, mania or hypomania was reported. L-Glycine is also generally well tolerated at typical doses, though rarely causes mild sedation, insomnia, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, or dry mouth; these resolve quickly when stopped.
Bioperine (black pepper) is well tolerated at food amounts and in single doses as a medicine, with occasional burning aftertaste, indigestion, or reduced taste. Allergic reactions are rare.
For pregnancy, L-Glutamine is rated Likely Safe, but L-Glycine and Bioperine have insufficient data—talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
If you take anticonvulsants (phenytoin, etc.), check with your pharmacist—L-Glutamine may theoretically reduce their effect, and Bioperine may raise blood levels of some anticonvulsants. Clozapine users should double-check: L-Glycine may worsen schizophrenia symptoms in people on this medication.
Anyone on propranolol, other heart or blood pressure drugs, nevirapine or other antiretrovirals, rifampin or other antibiotics, cyclosporine, pentobarbital or other sedatives, atorvastatin or other statins, or theophylline should verify with your pharmacist—Bioperine may increase blood levels and side effects of these medications.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glancePartially disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
BCAA Elite may interest athletes or people in muscle recovery, though evidence for that specific use isn't established in our data. If you take anticonvulsants, clozapine, heart or blood pressure medications, antibiotics, immunosuppressants, sedatives, cholesterol drugs, or asthma medications, you'll need to check this product with your pharmacist first—Bioperine can raise blood levels of several drugs.
Otherwise-healthy people may find it well tolerated, but start with the label dose to watch for digestive side effects.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 3 of 7 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Nov 25, 2011.
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
General information
Key facts about BCAA Elite, straight from the product label.
| Brand | InterActive Nutrition |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 625486603424 |
| Net contents | 1.3 lb; 600 g |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Nov 25, 2011 |
| DSLD ID | 2439 |
| Product type | Other Combinations |
| Supplement form | Powder |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years) |
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 BCAA Elite by InterActive Nutrition, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| L-Glutamine | 5 g | -- |
| L-Leucine | 0 NP | -- |
| L-Isoleucine | 0 NP | -- |
| L-Valine | 0 NP | -- |
| L-Glycine | 2.5 g | -- |
| Branched Chain Amino Acids | 5 Gram(s) | -- |
| D-Pinitol | 0.016 g | -- |
| Bioperine | 0.002 Gram(s) | -- |
Other ingredients: Maltodextrin, Citric Acid, Monosodium Phosphate, Dipotassium Phosphate, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium, Natural and Artificial flavor, FD&C Red #40
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
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.
FDA Statement of Identity
AMINO ACID POWDER DIETARY SUPPLEMENT
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Direction for Use: Dose (Adults): Mix one scoop (20g) in 8.5oz (250mL) of water and consume immediately. Take one serving prior to exercise and one serving following exercise.
Precautions
Keep away from children.
Cautions: Not intended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Produced in a facility that uses ingredients which may contain milk, egg, soy, wheat, peanut, fish and shellfish.
Consult a health care practitioner for long-term consumption.
Do not use if the security seal is broken.
People with health conditions should consult a health care practitioner before consuming this product.
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.
Storage
Store in a cool and dry place.
General Statements
·TROPICAL PUNCH· NATURAL & ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS
BRANCHED CHAIN AMINO ACID
Recommended Use or Purpose: This product stimulates muscle protein recovery and decreases exercise-induced muscle breakdown.†
STIMULATES MUSCLE PROTEIN RECOVERY AND DECREASES EXERCISE-INDUCED MUSCLE BREAKDOWN
General
Code# 630107
Seals/Symbols
Certified cGMP
Made in Canada FROM DOMESTIC AND IMPORTED INGREDIENTS
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
BCAA Elite by InterActive Nutrition label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.
View the full label (PDF)The Ingredients in BCAA Elite by InterActive Nutrition
These are the 7 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size20 Gram(s) Dosage formPowder Servings per container30 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.
L-Glutamine
Interacts with50 drugs
Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body and is usually made in your muscles. A prescription form is FDA-approved to help reduce sickle c...
L-Glutamine monograph & interactionsL-Glycine
Interacts with1 drug
Glycine is a non-essential amino acid your body makes on its own and that also appears in protein-rich foods. It is most studied for improving sleep q...
L-Glycine monograph & interactionsBranched Chain Amino Acids
- › L-Leucine
- › L-Isoleucine
- › L-Valine
D-Pinitol
Bioperine
Interacts with1,019 drugs
Black pepper is a common kitchen spice that is generally safe in the amounts used in food. Its extract, piperine, is mostly added to supplements to he...
Bioperine monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Maltodextrin, Citric Acid, Monosodium Phosphate, Dipotassium Phosphate, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium, Natural and Artificial flavor, FD&C Red #40. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
BCAA Elite by InterActive Nutrition Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
BCAA Elite by InterActive Nutrition contains ingredients with documented interactions with several medication types.
L-Glutamine may theoretically interfere with anticonvulsant medications (drugs that prevent seizures) by opposing their effects, though this hasn't been reported in humans yet—it's a Moderate concern because glutamine breaks down to glutamate, an excitatory brain chemical that could work against seizure control.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
L-Glycine interacts with clozapine (Clozaril), a psychiatric medication for schizophrenia; one small study suggests adding glycine might worsen schizophrenia symptoms, rated Moderate severity. Bioperine (black pepper extract) has the most documented interactions—it may increase blood levels of propranolol (a heart/blood pressure medication), nevirapine (an HIV drug), rifampin (an antibiotic), phenytoin (an anticonvulsant), cyclosporine (an immunosuppressant), pentobarbital (a sedative), atorvastatin (a cholesterol drug), and theophylline (an asthma/breathing medication).
All are Moderate severity because higher drug levels could intensify both effects and side effects.
We couldn't check L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine, or D-Pinitol—no interaction data is on file for these ingredients. Altogether, these interactions span 1,039 individual medications.
Run your exact prescriptions through the interaction checker on this page before you start.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against BCAA Elite?
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 checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in BCAA Elite interact with 1,053 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
3 of the 7 ingredients in BCAA Elite interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Bioperine L-Glutamine L-Glycine
AliskirenTekturna
How Aliskiren interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Aliskiren interactionAlmotriptanAlmogran, Axert
How Almotriptan interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Almotriptan interactionAlogliptinNesina
How Alogliptin interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Antidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Alogliptin interactionAlogliptin, MetforminKazano
How Alogliptin, Metformin interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Bioperine + Alogliptin, Metformin interactionAlogliptin, PioglitazoneOseni
How Alogliptin, Pioglitazone interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineAntidiabetes Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Bioperine + Alogliptin, Pioglitazone interactionAlpelisibPiqray
How Alpelisib interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Alpelisib interactionAlprazolamNiravam, Xanax
How Alprazolam interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Alprazolam interactionAlteplase, TpaActilyse, Activase
How Alteplase, Tpa interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Bioperine + Alteplase, Tpa interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #2
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Bioperine + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Bioperine + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAlvimopanEntereg
How Alvimopan interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineP-glycoprotein Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
Read the full Bioperine + Alvimopan interactionAmbrisentanLetairis, Volibris
How Ambrisentan interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineP-glycoprotein Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
Read the full Bioperine + Ambrisentan interactionAminophylline, Amobarbital, EphedrineAmesec
How Aminophylline, Amobarbital, Ephedrine interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-glutamineAnticonvulsants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, glutamine might antagonize the effects of anticonvulsant medications.
Read the full L-glutamine + Aminophylline, Amobarbital, Ephedrine interactionAmiodaroneCordarone, Pacerone
How Amiodarone interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Amiodarone interactionAmitriptylineElavil
How Amitriptyline interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Amitriptyline interactionAmitriptyline, ChlordiazepoxideLimbitrol DS
How Amitriptyline, Chlordiazepoxide interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might decrease levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Bioperine + Amitriptyline, Chlordiazepoxide interactionAmitriptyline, PerphenazineEtrafon, Etrafon-A, Etrafon-Forte, Triavil
How Amitriptyline, Perphenazine interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Bioperine + Amitriptyline, Perphenazine interactionAmlodipineNorliqva
How Amlodipine interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Amlodipine interactionAmlodipine BenzoateKaterzia
How Amlodipine Benzoate interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Amlodipine Benzoate interactionAmlodipine BesilateIstin
How Amlodipine Besilate interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Amlodipine Besilate interactionAmlodipine BesylateNorvasc
How Amlodipine Besylate interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Amlodipine Besylate interactionAmlodipine Besylate, BenazeprilLotrel
How Amlodipine Besylate, Benazepril interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Amlodipine Besylate, Benazepril interactionAmlodipine, CelecoxibConsensi
How Amlodipine, Celecoxib interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bioperine + Amlodipine, Celecoxib interactionAmobarbitalAmytal
How Amobarbital interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-glutamineAnticonvulsants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, glutamine might antagonize the effects of anticonvulsant medications.
Read the full L-glutamine + Amobarbital interactionAmobarbital, Ephedrine SulfateEphedrine & Amytal
How Amobarbital, Ephedrine Sulfate interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-glutamineAnticonvulsants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, glutamine might antagonize the effects of anticonvulsant medications.
Read the full L-glutamine + Amobarbital, Ephedrine Sulfate interactionAmobarbital, SecobarbitalTuinal
How Amobarbital, Secobarbital interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-glutamineAnticonvulsants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, glutamine might antagonize the effects of anticonvulsant medications.
Read the full L-glutamine + Amobarbital, Secobarbital interactionAmoxicillin, Omeprazole Magnesium, RifabutinTalicia
How Amoxicillin, Omeprazole Magnesium, Rifabutin interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineAmoxicillin (amoxil, Trimox), Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase the effects and side effects of amoxicillin.
Read the full Bioperine + Amoxicillin, Omeprazole Magnesium, Rifabutin interactionAmphetamineAdensys XR-ODT, Adzenys ER, Dyanavel XR, Mydayis
How Amphetamine interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Bioperine + Amphetamine interactionAmphetamine Aspartate, Amphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Dextroamphetamine SulfateAdderall, Adderall XR
How Amphetamine Aspartate, Amphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Dextroamphetamine Sulfate interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Bioperine + Amphetamine Aspartate, Amphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Dextroamphetamine Sulfate interactionAmphetamine SulfateBenzedrine, Evekeo ODT
How Amphetamine Sulfate interacts with BCAA Elite — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
BioperineCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Bioperine + Amphetamine Sulfate interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in BCAA Elite 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.
Bioperine
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
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.
Antidiabetes Drugs
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.
Atorvastatin (Lipitor)
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.
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
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.
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates
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.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
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.
Lithium
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.
Nevirapine (Viramune)
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.
P-Glycoprotein Substrates
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.
Pentobarbital (Nembutal)
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.
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
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.
Propranolol (Inderal)
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.
Rifampin (Rifadin)
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.
Theophylline
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.
Amoxicillin (Amoxil, Trimox)
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.
Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
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.
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates
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.
L-Glutamine
Anticonvulsants
Theoretically, glutamine might antagonize the effects of anticonvulsant medications.
Glutamine is metabolized to the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate. Glutamate might have antagonistic effects with anticonvulsant drugs. However, this interaction has not yet been reported in humans.
L-Glycine
Clozapine (Clozaril)
Theoretically, glycine might decrease the effectiveness of clozapine.
One small clinical study in patients with schizophrenia shows that adding glycine to clozapine therapy worsens symptoms of schizophrenia when compared with clozapine alone. The mechanism of this interaction is unclear.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for BCAA Elite, from the product label.
InterActive Nutrition
See all InterActive Nutrition products- Name
- Nutritional Brands International, LLC.
- Street Address
- 150 US HWY 1, Suite 505
- City
- Jupiter
- State
- Florida
- ZipCode
- 33477
- Web Address
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BCAA Elite by InterActive Nutrition: Common Questions
Does BCAA Elite by InterActive Nutrition interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
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What are BCAAs, and why are they in this product?
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Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if BCAA Elite is safe with your meds?
Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.
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.
The Full Monographs Behind BCAA Elite’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Glutamine
Interacts with 50 drugsGlutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body and is usually made in your muscles. A prescription form is FDA-approved to help reduce sickle cell disease complications, but for most...
Read the full Glutamine monograph → Herb & supplement monographGlycine
Interacts with 1 drugGlycine is a non-essential amino acid your body makes on its own and that also appears in protein-rich foods. It is most studied for improving sleep quality, where early research is promisin...
Read the full Glycine monograph → Herb & supplement monographBlack Pepper
Interacts with 1,019 drugsBlack pepper is a common kitchen spice that is generally safe in the amounts used in food. Its extract, piperine, is mostly added to supplements to help the body absorb other ingredients (li...
Read the full Black Pepper monograph →Sources & How We Checked
BCAA Elite'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.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
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 45 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.
Glutamine 11 references
- Miller AL. Therapeutic considerations of L-glutamine: a review of the literature. Altern Med Rev 1999;4:239-48..
- Bozzetti F, Biganzoli L, Gavazzi C, et al. Glutamine supplementation in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy: a double-blind randomized study. Nutrition 1997;13:748-51.. PubMed
- Mebane AH. L-Glutamine and mania. Am J Psychiatry 984;141:1302-3.
- Meldrum BS. Glutamate as a neurotransmitter in the brain: review of physiology and pathology. J Nutr 2000;130:1007S-15S.. PubMed
- Garlick PJ. Assessment of the safety of glutamine and other amino acids. J Nutr 2001;131:2556S-61S.. PubMed
- Chapman AG. Glutamate and epilepsy. J Nutr 2000;130:1043S-5S.. PubMed
- Ziegler TR. Glutamine supplementation in cancer patients receiving bone marrow transplantation and high dose chemotherapy. J Nutr 2001;131:2578S-84S.. PubMed
- Laviano A, Molfino A, Lacaria MT, Canelli A, De Leo S, Preziosa I, Rossi Fanelli F. Glutamine supplementation favors weight loss in nondieting obese female patients. A pilot study. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2014 Nov;68(11):1264-6. PubMed
- Endari (l-glutamine) [package insert]. Torrance, CA: Emmaus Medical,Inc; 2017.
- Niihara Y, Miller ST, Kanter J, et al. A Phase 3 Trial of l-Glutamine in Sickle Cell Disease. N Engl J Med 2018;379(3):226-35. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1715971.
- Ogden HB, Child RB, Fallowfield JL, et al. Gastrointestinal Tolerance of Low, Medium and High Dose Acute Oral l-Glutamine Supplementation in Healthy Adults: A Pilot Study. Nutrients. 2020;12(10):2953. PubMed
Glycine 5 references
- Heresco-Levy U, Javitt DC, Ermilov M, et al. Efficacy of high-dose glycine in the treatment of enduring negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Arch Gen Psychiatry 1999;56:29-36.. PubMed
- Potkin SG, Jin Y, Bunney BG, Costa J, Gulasekaram B. Effect of clozapine and adjunctive high-dose glycine in treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Am J Psychiatry 1999;156:145-7.. PubMed
- Gusev EI, Skvortsova VI, Dambinova SA, et al. Neuroprotective effects of glycine for therapy of acute ischaemic stroke. Cerebrovasc Dis 2000;10:49-60. PubMed
- Inagawa K, Kawai N, Ono K, Sukegawa E, Tsubuku S, Takahashi M. Assessment of acute adverse effects of glycine ingestion at a high dose in human volunteers. Seikatsu Eisei. 2006; 50:27-32.
- Woods SW, Walsh BC, Hawkins KA, Miller TJ, Saksa JR, D'Souza DC, Pearlson GD, Javitt DC, McGlashan TH, Krystal JH. Glycine treatment of the risk syndrome for psychosis: report of two pilot studies. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2013 Aug;23(8):931-40. PubMed
Black Pepper 29 references
- Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
- Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
- Bano G, Amla V, Raina RK, et al. The effect of piperine on pharmacokinetics of phenytoin in healthy volunteers. Planta Med 1987;53:568-9. PubMed
- Bano G, et al. Effect of piperine on bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of propranolol and theophylline in healthy volunteers. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 1991;41;615-7. PubMed
- Cohle SD, Trestrail JD III, Graham MA, et al. Fatal pepper aspiration. Am J Dis Child 1988;142:633-6. PubMed
- Bhardwaj RK, Glaeser H, Becquemont L, et al. Piperine, a major constituent of black pepper, inhibits human P-glycoprotein and CYP3A4. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2002;302:645-50. PubMed
- Velpandian T, Jasuja R, Bhardwaj RK, et al. Piperine in food: interference in the pharmacokinetics of phenytoin. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 2001;26:241-7. PubMed
- Pattanaik S, Hota D, Prabhakar S, et al. Pharmacokinetic interaction of a single dose of piperine with steady-state carbamazepine in epilepsy patients. Phytother Res 2009;23:1281-6.
- Munakata, M., Kobayashi, K., Niisato-Nezu, J., Tanaka, S., Kakisaka, Y., Ebihara, T., Ebihara, S., Haginoya, K., Tsuchiya, S., and Onuma, A. Olfactory stimulation using black pepper oil facilitates oral feeding in pediatric patients receiving long-term en
- Myers, B. M., Smith, J. L., and Graham, D. Y. Effect of red pepper and black pepper on the stomach. Am J Gastroenterol 1987;82(3):211-214.
- Raghavendra, R. H. and Naidu, K. A. Spice active principles as the inhibitors of human platelet aggregation and thromboxane biosynthesis. Prostaglandins Leukot.Essent.Fatty Acids 2009;81(1):73-78. PubMed
- Subehan, Usia, T., Kadota, S., and Tezuka, Y. Mechanism-based inhibition of human liver microsomal cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) by alkamides of Piper nigrum. Planta Med 2006;72(6):527-532.
- Kasibhatta, R. and Naidu, M. U. Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of nevirapine under fasting conditions: a randomised, crossover, placebo-controlled study. Drugs R.D. 2007;8(6):383-391. PubMed
- Usia, T., Iwata, H., Hiratsuka, A., Watabe, T., Kadota, S., and Tezuka, Y. CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 inhibitory activities of Indonesian medicinal plants. Phytomedicine. 2006;13(1-2):67-73. PubMed
- Mujumdar, A. M., Dhuley, J. N., Deshmukh, V. K., Raman, P. H., Thorat, S. L., and Naik, S. R. Effect of piperine on pentobarbitone induced hypnosis in rats. Indian J Exp.Biol. 1990;28(5):486-487.
- Panda, S. and Kar, A. Piperine lowers the serum concentrations of thyroid hormones, glucose and hepatic 5'D activity in adult male mice. Horm.Metab Res. 2003;35(9):523-526. PubMed
- Lawless, H. and Stevens, D. A. Effects of oral chemical irritation on taste. Physiol Behav. 1984;32(6):995-998. PubMed
- Hiwale, A. R., Dhuley, J. N., and Naik, S. R. Effect of co-administration of piperine on pharmacokinetics of beta-lactam antibiotics in rats. Indian J Exp.Biol. 2002;40(3):277-281.
- Han, Y., Chin Tan, T. M., and Lim, L. Y. In vitro and in vivo evaluation of the effects of piperine on P-gp function and expression. Toxicol.Appl.Pharmacol. 8-1-2008;230(3):283-289. PubMed
- Sharma, P., Varma, M. V., Chawla, H. P., and Panchagnula, R. In situ and in vivo efficacy of peroral absorption enhancers in rats and correlation to in vitro mechanistic studies. Farmaco 2005;60(11-12):874-883. PubMed
- Aher, S., Biradar, S., Gopu, C. L., and Paradkar, A. Novel pepper extract for enhanced P-glycoprotein inhibition. J Pharm.Pharmacol. 2009;61(9):1179-1186. PubMed
- Zutshi, R. K., Singh, R., Zutshi, U., Johri, R. K., and Atal, C. K. Influence of piperine on rifampicin blood levels in patients of pulmonary tuberculosis. J Assoc.Physicians India 1985;33(3):223-224.
- Marotta, R. B. and Floch, M. H. Diet and nutrition in ulcer disease. Med Clin North Am 1991;75(4):967-979. PubMed
- Subehan, Usia, T., Iwata, H., Kadota, S., and Tezuka, Y. Mechanism-based inhibition of CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 by Indonesian medicinal plants. J Ethnopharmacol. 5-24-2006;105(3):449-455. PubMed
- Gimenez L, Zacharisen M. Severe pepper allergy in a young child. WMJ. 2011 Jun;110(3):138-9.
- Ren T, Yang M, Xiao M, Zhu J, Xie W, Zuo Z. Time-dependent inhibition of carbamazepine metabolism by piperine in anti-epileptic treatment. Life Sci. 2019;218:314-323. PubMed
- Thomas AB, Choudhary DC, Raje A, Nagrik SS. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic herb-drug interaction of piperine with atorvastatin in rats. J Chromatogr Sci 2021;59(4):371-80. PubMed
- Haron MH, Dale O, Martin K, et al. Evaluation of the Herb-Drug Interaction Potential of Commonly Used Botanicals on the US Market with Regard to PXR- and AhR-Mediated Influences on CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. J Diet Suppl 2022. PubMed
- Lin F, Hu Y, Zhang Y, Zhao L, Zhong D, Liu J. Predicting Food-Drug Interactions between Piperine and CYP3A4 Substrate Drugs Using PBPK Modeling. Int J Mol Sci 2024;25(20):10955. PubMed
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