Bitter Orange Powder Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by TerraVita Premium Collection
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Bitter Orange Powder 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
Bitter Orange Powder is a dietary supplement by TerraVita Premium Collection with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for weight loss, athletic performance and energy, digestive upset.Based on those ingredients, 957 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Bitter Orange, Powder. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Bitter Orange Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Bitter Orange Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection — 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
Ask the Pharmacist
A licensed pharmacist will answer your question by email — free, usually within 24 hours.
Got it — thank you!
A licensed pharmacist will answer within 24 hours. Keep an eye on your email (worth checking spam, just in case).
HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Bitter Orange Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection
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
Full disclosure
This product contains one active ingredient: bitter orange powder. Bitter orange (also called Seville orange or sour orange) is a citrus fruit that contains stimulant compounds, chiefly synephrine and octopamine, which can affect your heart rate and blood pressure.
There are no inactive ingredients listed for this product.
Does it work?
Couldn't assess
The evidence we hold doesn't establish that bitter orange works reliably for any condition. The data rates its effectiveness as insufficient for hay fever, hair loss, sexual dysfunction, procedure anxiety, and athletic performance.
That doesn't mean it's ineffective—it means the research isn't solid enough yet to say one way or the other.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
When taken orally in medicinal amounts, bitter orange is not considered safe. The most common side effects are high blood pressure and fast heart rate, especially when combined with caffeine or other stimulants.
Rarely, serious events like heart attack, stroke, fainting, irregular heartbeat, and seizure have been reported. The data advises against taking bitter orange during pregnancy and while breastfeeding due to lack of safety information and its stimulant effects.
Meds to double-check
Major interaction found
Before you take this product, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you use MAOIs (older antidepressants), midazolam (Versed), drugs that prolong the QT interval, blood sugar medications, stimulants, dextromethorphan (cough medicine), or caffeine. Major interactions are possible with the first two; Moderate interactions with the rest.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no assessable stated purpose. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Bitter Orange Powder carries significant risks—especially if you take an older antidepressant, midazolam, or any drug metabolized through a specific liver enzyme. Even on its own, it can raise blood pressure and heart rate.
If you're considering this supplement, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about your current medications and whether it's appropriate for you.
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 Apr 21, 2023.
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 Bitter Orange Powder, straight from the product label.
| Brand | TerraVita Premium Collection |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 064435141547 |
| Net contents | 4 Ounce(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Apr 21, 2023 |
| DSLD ID | 289675 |
| Product type | Botanical |
| 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 Bitter Orange Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Bitter Orange, Powder | 1000 mg | -- |
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
A Dietary Supplement
Brand IP Statement(s)
Copyright 2005 TerraVita - Distributed by ZooScape LLC, All Rights Reserved.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Directions Stir 1/4 of a teaspoon into a glass of water and consume 3 times daily, with meals.
General Statements
TerraVita is an exclusive line of premium natural products that use the finest, purest and most potent ingredients in the world. TerraVita's hallmarks are the highest possible standards of purity, potency, stability and freshness. All products are prepared with the greatest quality control, from raw materials through the entire manufacturing process, right up to the moment your product is sealed for freshness and shipped to you.
Please recycle!
FDA Disclaimer Statement
Statements not evaluated by FDA. Product not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Bitter Orange Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection 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 Bitter Orange Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection
This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.
Serving size0.25 Teaspoon(s) Dosage formPowder Servings per container113 Amounts shown are per serving.
Bitter Orange, Powder
Interacts with957 drugs
Bitter orange is a citrus fruit whose extracts contain synephrine, a mild stimulant often added to weight-loss and energy supplements. Evidence that i...
Bitter Orange, Powder monograph & interactionsBitter Orange Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Bitter Orange Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection contains synephrine and related compounds that interact with a number of medications.
The most serious concern is with MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors), a class of older antidepressants. Taking bitter orange with an MAOI could theoretically cause a dangerous spike in blood pressure (hypertensive crisis) because bitter orange contains tyramine and synephrine, which these drugs cannot break down safely.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Bitter orange also poses Major-level risks with midazolam (Versed), a sedative used before procedures—it may raise midazolam blood levels and increase side effects. Beyond that, the ingredient inhibits an enzyme your liver uses to clear many other drugs (CYP3A4), potentially raising levels of medications metabolized this way.
Moderate interactions are documented with QT interval-prolonging drugs (which can affect heart rhythm), antidiabetes medications, stimulant drugs, dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant), and caffeine. When combined with caffeine or other stimulants, bitter orange may increase blood pressure and heart rate.
Alone or in any combination, these interactions span 958 individual medications. Use the search tool on this page to check your exact medications before starting this product.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Bitter Orange Powder?
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 Bitter Orange Powder interact with 957 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
1 of the 1 ingredient in Bitter Orange Powder interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Bitter Orange, Powder
AmphetamineAdensys XR-ODT, Adzenys ER, Dyanavel XR, Mydayis
How Amphetamine interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Stimulant Drugs +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase levels of drug metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Amphetamine interactionIsocarboxazidMarplan
How Isocarboxazid interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Isocarboxazid interactionMidazolamNayzilam, Seizalam, Versed
How Midazolam interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Midazolam (versed) Major
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Midazolam interactionMoclobemideManerix, Moclobemide
How Moclobemide interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Moclobemide interactionOzanimod HydrochlorideZeposia
How Ozanimod Hydrochloride interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois), Qt Interval-prolonging Drugs Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Ozanimod Hydrochloride interactionPhenelzine SulfateNardil
How Phenelzine Sulfate interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Phenelzine Sulfate interactionRasagilineAzilect
How Rasagiline interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Rasagiline interactionSafinamide MesylateXadago
How Safinamide Mesylate interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Safinamide Mesylate interactionSelegilineCarbex, Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar
How Selegiline interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Selegiline interactionTranylcypromineParnate
How Tranylcypromine interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Tranylcypromine interactionAdo-trastuzumab EmtansineKadcyla
How Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interactionAbemaciclibVerzenio
How Abemaciclib interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Abemaciclib interactionAbiraterone
How Abiraterone interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Abiraterone interactionAbiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
How Abiraterone Acetate interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Abiraterone Acetate interactionAcalabrutinibCalquence
How Acalabrutinib interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acalabrutinib interactionAcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
How Acarbose interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acarbose interactionAcetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderStimulant Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypertension and adverse cardiovascular effects when taken with stimulant drugs.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderStimulant Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypertension and adverse cardiovascular effects when taken with stimulant drugs.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderStimulant Drugs, Caffeine +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypertension and adverse cardiovascular effects when taken with stimulant drugs.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Stimulant Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Stimulant Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase levels of drug metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCaffeine, Stimulant Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase blood pressure and heart rate when taken with caffeine.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderStimulant Drugs, Caffeine +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypertension and adverse cardiovascular effects when taken with stimulant drugs.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Stimulant Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCaffeine, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase blood pressure and heart rate when taken with caffeine.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderStimulant Drugs, Caffeine +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypertension and adverse cardiovascular effects when taken with stimulant drugs.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Dextromethorphan (robitussin Dm, Others) +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase levels of drug metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Dextromethorphan (robitussin Dm, Others) +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase levels of drug metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interacts with Bitter Orange Powder — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bitter Orange, PowderCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Dextromethorphan (robitussin Dm, Others) +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Bitter Orange, Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Bitter Orange Powder 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.
Bitter Orange, Powder
Midazolam (Versed)
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.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Maois)
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.
Antidiabetes Drugs
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.
Caffeine
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.
Colchicine
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.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
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.
Dextromethorphan (Robitussin Dm, Others)
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.
Felodipine (Plendil)
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.
Indinavir (Crixivan)
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.
Qt Interval-Prolonging Drugs
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.
Sildenafil (Viagra)
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.
Stimulant Drugs
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.
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates
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.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Bitter Orange Powder, from the product label.
TerraVita Premium Collection
See all TerraVita Premium Collection products- Name
- TerraVita Fine Whole Herbs
- City
- Brampton
- State
- Ontario
Bitter Orange Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection: Common Questions
Does Bitter Orange Powder by TerraVita Premium Collection interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Can I take this with caffeine?
What is synephrine and why is it a concern?
Is bitter orange safe to use while pregnant or nursing?
What are the most common side effects?
Does this product actually work for anything?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Bitter Orange Powder 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 Bitter Orange Powder’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Sources & How We Checked
Bitter Orange Powder'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 47 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.
Bitter Orange 47 references
- Penzak SR, Jann MW, Cold JA, et al. Seville (sour) orange juice: synephrine content and cardiovascular effects in normotensive adults. J Clin Pharmacol 2001;41:1059-63. PubMed
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Title 21. Part 182 -- Substances Generally Recognized As Safe. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=182
- Calapai G, Firenzuoli F, Saitta A, et al. Antiobesity and cardiovascular toxic effects of Citrus aurantium extracts in the rat: A preliminary report. Fitoterapia 1999;70:586-92. DOI
- Keogh AM, Baron DW. Sympathomimetic abuse and coronary artery spasm. Br Med J 1985;291:940.
- Malhotra S, Bailey DG, Paine MF, Watkins PB. Seville orange juice-felodipine interaction: comparison with dilute grapefruit juice and involvement of furocoumarins. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2001;69:14-23. PubMed
- Pellati F, Benvenuti S, Melegari M, Firenzuoli F. Determination of adrenergic agonists from extracts and herbal products of Citrus aurantium L. var. amara by LC. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2002;29:1113-9. . PubMed
- Colker CM, Kalman DS, Torina GC, et al. Effects of Citrus aurantium extract, caffeine, and St. John's wort on body fat loss, lipid levels, and mood states in overweight healthy adults. Curr Ther Res 1999;60:145-153. DOI
- Penzak SR, Acosta EP, Turner M, et al. Effect of Seville orange juice and grapefruit juice on indinavir pharmacokinetics. J Clin Pharmacol 2002;42:1165-70. PubMed
- Edwards DJ, Fitzsimmons ME, Schuetz EG, et al. 6',7'-Dihydroxybergamottin in grapefruit juice and Seville orange juice: effects on cyclosporine disposition, enterocyte CYP3A4, and P-glycoprotein. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1999;65:237-44. PubMed
- Di Marco MP, Edwards DJ, Wainer IW, Ducharme MP. The effect of grapefruit juice and seville orange juice on the pharmacokinetics of dextromethorphan: the role of gut CYP3A and P-glycoprotein. Life Sci 2002;71:1149-60. PubMed
- Visentin V, Morin N, Fontana E, et al. Dual action of octopamine on glucose transport into adipocytes: inhibition via beta3-adrenoceptor activation and stimulation via oxidation by amine oxidases. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2001;299:96-104.
- Nykamp DL, Fackih MN, Compton AL. Possible association of acute lateral-wall myocardial infarction and bitter orange supplement. Ann Pharmacother 2004;38:812-6. PubMed
- Fugh-Berman A, Myers A. Citrus aurantium, an ingredient of dietary supplements marketed for weight loss: Current status of clinical and basic Research. Exp Biol Med 2004;229:698-704.
- Suzuki O, Matsumoto T, Oya M, Katsumata Y. Oxidation of synephrine by type A and type B monoamine oxidase. Experientia 1979;35:1283-4. PubMed
- Nasir JM, Durning SJ, Ferguson M, et al. Exercise-induced syncope associated with QT prolongation and ephedra-free Xenadrine. Mayo Clin Proc 2004;79:1059-62.. PubMed
- Firenzuoli F, Gori L, Galapai C. Adverse reaction to an adrenergic herbal extract (Citrus aurantium). Phytomedicine 2005;12:247-8. PubMed
- Bouchard NC, Howland MA, Greller HA, et al. Ischemic stroke associated with use of an ephedra-free dietary supplement containing synephrine. Mayo Clin Proc 2005;80:541-5. PubMed
- Haller CA, Benowitz NL, Jacob P 3rd. Hemodynamic effects of ephedra-free weight-loss supplements in humans. Am J Med 2005;118:998-1003.. PubMed
- Bui LT, Nguyen DT, Ambrose PJ. Blood pressure and heart rate effects following a single dose of bitter orange. Ann Pharmacother 2006;40:53-7. PubMed
- Min B, Cios D, Kluger J, White CM. Absence of QTc-interval-prolonging or hemodynamic effects of a single dose of bitter-orange extract in healthy subjects. Pharmacotherapy 2005;25:1719-24. PubMed
- Gange CA, Madias C, Felix-Getzik EM, et al. Variant angina associated with bitter orange in a dietary supplement. Mayo Clin Proc 2006;81:545-8. PubMed
- Jordan S, Murty M, Pilon K. Products containing bitter orange or synephrine: suspected cardiovascular adverse reactions. Canadian Adverse Reaction Newsletter 2004;14:3-4.
- Burke J, Seda G, Allen D, Knee TS. A case of severe exercise-induced rhabdomyolysis associated with a weight loss dietary supplement. Mil Med 2007;172:656-8. PubMed
- Gray, S. and Woolf, A. D. Citrus aurantium used for weight loss by an adolescent with anorexia nervosa. J Adolesc.Health 2005;37(5):414-415. PubMed
- Haller, C. A., Duan, M., Jacob, P., III, and Benowitz, N. Human pharmacology of a performance-enhancing dietary supplement under resting and exercise conditions. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2008;65(6):833-840. PubMed
- Thomas, J. E., Munir, J. A., McIntyre, P. Z., and Ferguson, M. A. STEMI in a 24-year-old man after use of a synephrine-containing dietary supplement: a case report and review of the literature. Tex.Heart Inst.J 2009;36(6):586-590.
- Campbell-Tofte, J. I., Molgaard, P., Josefsen, K., Abdallah, Z., Hansen, S. H., Cornett, C., Mu, H., Richter, E. A., Petersen, H. W., Norregaard, J. C., and Winther, K. Randomized and double-blinded pilot clinical study of the safety and anti-diabetic ef
- Seifert, J. G., Nelson, A., Devonish, J., Burke, E. R., and Stohs, S. J. Effect of acute administration of an herbal preparation on blood pressure and heart rate in humans. Int J Med Sci 2011;8(3):192-197. PubMed
- Stohs, S. J., Preuss, H. G., Keith, S. C., Keith, P. L., Miller, H., and Kaats, G. R. Effects of p-synephrine alone and in combination with selected bioflavonoids on resting metabolism, blood pressure, heart rate and self-reported mood changes. Int J Med
- Wason, S., DiGiacinto, J. L., and Davis, M. W. Effects of grapefruit and Seville orange juices on the pharmacokinetic properties of colchicine in healthy subjects. Clin Ther 2012;34(10):2161-2173. PubMed
- Kaats, G. R., Miller, H., Preuss, H. G., and Stohs, S. J. A 60day double-blind, placebo-controlled safety study involving Citrus aurantium (bitter orange) extract. Food Chem Toxicol. 2013;55:358-362.
- Calapai, G., Firenzuoli, F., Saitta, A., Squadrito, F. R., Arlotta, M., Costantino, G., and Inferrera, G. Antiobesity and cardiovascular toxic effects of Citrus aurantium extracts in the rat: a preliminary report. Fitoterapia 12-1-1999;70(6):586-592. DOI
- Colker, C., Kalman, D., and Torina, G. Effects of Citrus aurantium extract, caffeine, and St. John's Wort on body fat loss, lipid levels, and mood states in overweight healthy adults. Curr Ther Res 1999;60:145-153. DOI
- Shara M, Stohs SJ. Safety evaluation of Bitter orange extract (p-synephrine) in healthy volunteers. J.Amer.Coll.Nutr. 2011;30:358.
- Lynch B. Review of the safety of p-synephrine and caffeine. Intertek-Cantox Report, 2013;1-20.
- Smith TB, Staub BA, Natarajan GM, et al. Acute myocardial infarction associated with dietary supplements containing 1,3-dimethylamylamine and Citrus aurantium. Tex Heart Inst J 2014;41(1):70-2. PubMed
- Shara M, Stohs SJ, Mukattash TL. Cardiovascular safety of oral p-synephrine (bitter orange) in healthy subjects: a randomized placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2016;30(5):842-7.
- Liu Y, Santillo MF. Cytochrome P450 2D6 and 3A4 enzyme inhibition by amine stimulants in dietary supplements. Drug Test Anal. 2016;8(3-4):307-10. PubMed
- Abdelkawy KS, Donia AM, Turner RB, Elbarbry F. Effects of Lemon and Seville Orange Juices on the Pharmacokinetic Properties of Sildenafil in Healthy Subjects. Drugs R D. 2016 Sep;16(3):271-278. PubMed
- Gutiérrez-Hellín J, Salinero JJ, Abían-Vicen J, Areces F, Lara B, Gallo C, et al. Acute consumption of p-synephrine does not enhance performance in sprint athletes.J. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2016;41(1):63-9. doi: 10.1139/apnm-2015-0299.
- Jung YP, Earnest CP, Koozehchian M, et al. Effects of ingesting a pre-workout dietary supplement with and without synephrine for 8 weeks on training adaptations in resistance-trained males. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2017;3;14:1. doi: 10.1186/s12970-016-0158- PubMed
- Jung YP, Earnest CP, Koozehchian M, et al. Effects of acute ingestion of a pre-workout dietary supplement with and without synephrine on resting energy expenditure, cognitive function and exercise performance. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2017;14:3. doi: 10.118
- Vatsavai LK, Kilari EK. Interaction of p-synephrine on the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetics of gliclazide in animal models. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2017; S0975-9476(16)30487-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jaim.2017.04.010.
- Ratamess NA, Bush JA, Stohs SJ, et al. Acute cardiovascular effects of bitter orange extract (p-synephrine) consumed alone and in combination with caffeine in human subjects: A placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Phytother Res. 2018;32(1):94-102.
- Gutiérrez-Hellín J, Ruiz-Moreno C, Del Coso J. Acute p-synephrine ingestion increases whole-body fat oxidation during 1-h of cycling at Fatmax. Eur J Nutr. 2019 Nov 5. PubMed
- Karimzadeh Z, Azizzadeh Forouzi M, Tajadini H, Ahmadinejad M, Roy C, Dehghan M. Effects of lavender and Citrus aurantium on pain of conscious intensive care unit patients: a parallel randomized placebo-controlled trial. J Integr Med 2021:S2095-4964(21)000 PubMed
- Koncz D, Tóth B, Bahar MA, Roza O, Csupor D. The Safety and Efficacy of Citrus aurantium (Bitter Orange) Extracts and p-Synephrine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients 2022;14(19):4019. 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