Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Sambucol
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief 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
Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief is a dietary supplement by Sambucol with 5 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for acne and oily skin, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.Based on those ingredients, 187 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Sambucus nigra, Zincum Gluconicum. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief by Sambucol
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
Low disclosure
This product has five active ingredients. Sulfur is included for its possible effectiveness in scabies and dandruff, though evidence for cold and flu relief is insufficient.
Bryonia and gelsemium sempervirens are homeopathic ingredients with no established effectiveness ratings in our data. Sambucus nigra (black elderberry) is the namesake ingredient, but we hold no data on it.
Zincum gluconicum is a form of zinc, an essential mineral that's effective for zinc deficiency and possibly helpful for acne and age-related macular degeneration, though its role in cold and flu relief isn't established here. The tablet also contains several inactive ingredients—fillers and binders like microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, maltodextrin, magnesium stearate, and lactose, plus black carrot extract for color, elderberry flavor, and sucrose.
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
Evidence for this product's effectiveness against cold and flu is not established in the data we hold. Zinc is effective for zinc deficiency and possibly helpful for acne and other conditions, but evidence for cold and flu specifically isn't documented.
Sulfur has possible effectiveness for scabies and dandruff, but insufficient evidence for common cold relief. Bryonia and gelsemium sempervirens have no effectiveness ratings in our data.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Three of the five active ingredients carry serious toxicity warnings. Bryonia root—even in small doses—can cause vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and in large amounts, death.
Gelsemium sempervirens (also called yellow jasmine) is highly toxic; even small amounts can cause muscle weakness, seizures, difficulty breathing, and death from respiratory failure. The product should be avoided entirely during pregnancy and breastfeeding because of these toxicity risks.
Sulfur taken by mouth is less studied than topical use, but it can cause diarrhea and, in very large doses, a serious condition called metabolic acidosis. Zinc is generally well tolerated at normal recommended amounts but can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a metallic taste, especially at high doses.
High long-term zinc use above 40 mg daily may increase the risk of copper deficiency.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking this product, double-check whether you use quinolone antibiotics, tetracycline antibiotics, cephalexin, or penicillamine—all moderate interactions with zinc. Also check for ritonavir, cisplatin, integrase inhibitors (like dolutegravir), or bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide.
If you take any of these, spacing your doses hours apart can help, but talk to your pharmacist about the best timing for your situation.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
This product combines ingredients with unproven effectiveness for cold and flu alongside ingredients with serious toxicity concerns. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, this product is not advised.
If you take antibiotics, HIV medications, or other prescription drugs, check them against the medication interaction tool below before starting. A conversation with your pharmacist or doctor about safer, more proven options is a good idea.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 5 of 5 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Apr 22, 2021.
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 Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Sambucol |
|---|---|
| Net contents | 60 Quick Dissolve Tablet(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Apr 22, 2021 |
| DSLD ID | 245275 |
| Product type | Other Combinations |
| Supplement form | Tablet Or Pill |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Children 4 or More Years of Age, 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 Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief by Sambucol, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Sulfur | 0 NP | -- |
| Bryonia | 0 NP | -- |
| Gelsemium sempervirens | 0 NP | -- |
| Sambucus nigra | 0 NP | -- |
| Zincum Gluconicum | 0 NP | -- |
Other ingredients: Black Carrot extract, Croscarmellose Sodium, Elderberry flavor, Lactose, Magnesium Stearate, Maltodextrin, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Sucrose
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.
General Statements
NDC# 52053-0005-1 60 Count family pack
Satisfaction Guaranteed: if you are dissatisfied, and wish to receive a full refund, please see our website for details.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Take at the first sign of cold and flu symptoms
Directions For best results, use at the first sign of symptoms of a cold or flu and continue to use for an additional 48 hours after symptoms subside. Adults and children 4 years and older Dissolve entire tablet in mouth. Do not chew. Do not swallow whole. Take one tablet at the outset of symptoms. Repeat every three hours.
Formulation
Fast temporary relief from: Nasal & sinus congestion Runny nose Sore throat Coughing Sneezing Chills & fever
Homeopathic
Sambucol Cold & Flu Relief: Safe for the whole family No known drug interactions No known side effects Non-drowsy Non-habit forming
Made in the USA with domestic and imported ingredients.
Bryonia 6X..Muscle ache, headache, fever, chills, dry throat, cough Gelsemium sempervirens 6X, 12X, 30X...Bronchial irritation, dry cough, sneezing Sambucus nigra 3X, 6X...Nasal congestion, hoarseness, coughing, fever Sulphur 12X...Nasal congestion and pressure, headache, burning throat Zincum gluconicum 2X, 6X...Fatigue, nausea, bronchial constriction, minor sore throat *The letters 'HPUS' indicate that the components in this product are officially monographed in the Homeopathic Pharmacopeia of the United States. Uses** Temporarily relieves cold & flu symptoms. Provides temporary relief from respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, nasal & sinus congestion, minor sore throat and headache. Also temporarily relieves fever, chills, and body aches associated with flu.
Active ingredients are monographed and microdiluted in accordance with the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States and are non-toxic and have no known side effects.
Sambucol Cold & Flu Relief: Fast relief from cold & flu symptoms
Unique homeopathic formulation
Quickly dissolves in the mouth without water Great tasting
Precautions
Children under 4: Consult a doctor before use.
Warnings Sore throat warning - Severe or persistent sore throat or sore throat accompanied by high fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting may be serious. Consult physician promptly.
Do not use more than 2 days or administer to children under 3 years of age unless directed by a physician.
Stop use and ask a doctor if: Symptoms worsen Any new symptoms appear Fever lasts for more than three days. Respiratory symptoms persist for more than seven days.
If pregnant or breast feeding, ask a health professional before using.
Keep out of the reach of children.
In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.
Children under 4 years of age Consult a doctor before use.
Other information Do not use if blister seal is broken.
Formula
With natural elderberry & zinc
FDA Disclaimer Statement
Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief by Sambucol 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 Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief by Sambucol
These are the 5 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size0 Not Present Dosage formTablet Or Pill Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.
Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.
Sulfur
No knowninteractions
Sulfur is a mineral used mainly in topical skin products for acne, rosacea, dandruff, and certain skin infections, and has a long history in dermatolo...
Sulfur monograph & interactionsBryonia
No knowninteractions
Bryonia is a toxic climbing vine that is mainly used today in homeopathic dilutions for coughs, pain, and inflammation, but solid scientific evidence...
Bryonia monograph & interactionsGelsemium sempervirens
No knowninteractions
Gelsemium is a highly toxic flowering plant most often sold today in very dilute homeopathic forms for anxiety, headaches, and flu-like symptoms. Ther...
Gelsemium sempervirens monograph & interactionsSambucus nigra
Interacts with121 drugs
Elderberry is a popular herbal supplement, mainly taken to help with colds and flu. Some small studies suggest it may modestly shorten cold or flu sym...
Sambucus nigra monograph & interactionsZincum Gluconicum
Interacts with67 drugs
Zinc is an essential mineral that your body needs for immune function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Most people get enough from food, but suppleme...
Zincum Gluconicum monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Black Carrot extract, Croscarmellose Sodium, Elderberry flavor, Lactose, Magnesium Stearate, Maltodextrin, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Sucrose. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief by Sambucol Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Sambucol Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief contains several ingredients with serious safety concerns.
Three of the five active ingredients—bryonia, gelsemium sempervirens, and sulfur—have no documented interactions with medications, but they carry other risks that your doctor should know about before you take this product.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
The fifth active ingredient, zincum gluconicum (zinc), does interact with medications. Altogether, these interactions span 65 individual medications.
The most serious category is antibiotics: zinc can reduce the effectiveness of quinolone antibiotics, tetracycline antibiotics, and cephalexin (an antibiotic used for bacterial infections) by preventing the body from absorbing them properly. If you take any of these antibiotics, space your doses at least 2 hours apart from this product.
Zinc also interacts with penicillamine (a medication used for certain conditions), ritonavir (an HIV medication), cisplatin (a cancer drug), integrase inhibitors, and bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (another HIV medication). Again, timing your doses several hours apart can help reduce the effect.
We could not check sambucus nigra (black elderberry) because we hold no interaction data for it. Use the medication checker on this page to look up your exact drugs before you start.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief?
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 Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief interact with 187 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 5 ingredients in Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Sambucus nigra Zincum Gluconicum
CiclesonideAlvesco, Omnaris, Zetonna
How Ciclesonide interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Ciclesonide interactionCinoxacinCinobac
How Cinoxacin interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumQuinolone Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Zinc can decrease the levels and clinical effects of quinolones antibiotics.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Cinoxacin interactionCiprofloxacinCiloxan, Cipro, Cipro IV, Cipro XR, Ciprobay, Otiprio
How Ciprofloxacin interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumQuinolone Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Zinc can decrease the levels and clinical effects of quinolones antibiotics.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Ciprofloxacin interactionCisplatinPlatinol-AQ
How Cisplatin interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Cisplatin interactionZincum GluconicumCisplatin (platinol-aq) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, zinc might interfere with the therapeutic effects of cisplatin.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Cisplatin interactionCladribineLeustatin, Mavenclad
How Cladribine interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Cladribine interactionClinafloxacinClinafloxacin
How Clinafloxacin interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumQuinolone Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Zinc can decrease the levels and clinical effects of quinolones antibiotics.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Clinafloxacin interactionCobicistat, Elvitegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide FumarateGenvoya
How Cobicistat, Elvitegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide Fumarate interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumBictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir Alafenamide (biktarvy) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, zinc might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Cobicistat, Elvitegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide Fumarate interactionCopanlisibAliqopa
How Copanlisib interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Copanlisib interactionCortisone AcetateCortisone Tablets, Cortone
How Cortisone Acetate interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Cortisone Acetate interactionCyclophosphamideCytoxan, Neosar
How Cyclophosphamide interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Cyclophosphamide interactionCyclosporineCequa, Ciclosporine, Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune, Verkazia +1 more
How Cyclosporine interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Cyclosporine interactionDaclizumabZenapax, Zinbryta
How Daclizumab interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Daclizumab interactionDarunavir, Cobicistat, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir AlafenamideSymtuza
How Darunavir, Cobicistat, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumBictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir Alafenamide (biktarvy) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, zinc might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Darunavir, Cobicistat, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide interactionDarunavir, RitonavirDarunavir, Ritonavir
How Darunavir, Ritonavir interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumRitonavir (norvir) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Zinc modestly reduces levels of ritonavir.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Darunavir, Ritonavir interactionDasabuvir Sodium, Ombitasvir, Paritaprevir, RitonavirViekira XR
How Dasabuvir Sodium, Ombitasvir, Paritaprevir, Ritonavir interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumRitonavir (norvir) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Zinc modestly reduces levels of ritonavir.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Dasabuvir Sodium, Ombitasvir, Paritaprevir, Ritonavir interactionDeflazacortEmflaza
How Deflazacort interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Deflazacort interactionDemeclocyclineDeclomycin
How Demeclocycline interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumTetracycline Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Zinc might reduce levels of tetracycline antibiotics.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Demeclocycline interactionDenosumabProlia, XGEVA
How Denosumab interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Denosumab interactionDeucravacitinibSotyktu
How Deucravacitinib interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Deucravacitinib interactionDexamethasoneDecadron, Dexone, Dextenza, Dexycu, Hemady, Hexadrol +1 more
How Dexamethasone interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Dexamethasone interactionDiroximel FumarateVumerity
How Diroximel Fumarate interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Diroximel Fumarate interactionDolutegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir AlafenamideDolutegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide
How Dolutegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumBictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir Alafenamide (biktarvy) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, zinc might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Dolutegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide interactionDoripenemDoribax
How Doripenem interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumQuinolone Antibiotics, Tetracycline Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Zinc can decrease the levels and clinical effects of quinolones antibiotics.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Doripenem interactionDoxycyclineDoryx, Doxy, Doxy-D, Doxycin, Doxycycline Injection, Doxylin +6 more
How Doxycycline interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumTetracycline Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Zinc might reduce levels of tetracycline antibiotics.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Doxycycline interactionDoxycycline HyclateActiclate, Acticlate Cap, Lymepak
How Doxycycline Hyclate interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumTetracycline Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Zinc might reduce levels of tetracycline antibiotics.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Doxycycline Hyclate interactionDoxycycline MonohydrateErfacea
How Doxycycline Monohydrate interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumTetracycline Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Zinc might reduce levels of tetracycline antibiotics.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Doxycycline Monohydrate interactionDoxycylineDoxychel
How Doxycyline interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Zincum GluconicumTetracycline Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Zinc might reduce levels of tetracycline antibiotics.
Read the full Zincum Gluconicum + Doxycyline interactionDurvalumabImfinzi
How Durvalumab interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Durvalumab interactionEculizumabSoliris
How Eculizumab interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Eculizumab interactionEfalizumabRaptiva
How Efalizumab interacts with Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Sambucus NigraImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Sambucus Nigra + Efalizumab interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief 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.
Sambucus nigra
Immunosuppressants
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Elderberry has immunostimulant activity, increasing the production of cytokines, including interleukin and tumor necrosis factor.
Pazopanib (Votrient)
Theoretically, elderberry might interact with pazopanib, potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects.
Zincum Gluconicum
Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)
Theoretically, zinc might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption.
Advise patients that bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide should be taken at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after zinc containing products.
Cephalexin (Keflex)
Zinc might decrease cephalexin levels by chelating with cephalexin in the gut and preventing its absorption.
A pharmacokinetic study shows that zinc sulfate 250 mg taken concomitantly with cephalexin 500 mg decreases peak levels of cephalexin by 31% and reduces the exposure to cephalexin by 27%. Also, taking zinc sulfate 3 hours before cephalexin decreases peak levels of cephalexin by 11% and reduces the exposure to cephalexin by 18%. By decreasing cephalexin levels, zinc might increase the risk of treatment failure. This effect does not occur when zinc is taken 3 hours after the cephalexin dose. To avoid an interaction, advise patients take zinc sulfate 3 hours after taking cephalexin.
Cisplatin (Platinol-Aq)
Theoretically, zinc might interfere with the therapeutic effects of cisplatin.
Animal research suggests that zinc stimulates tumor cell production of the protein metallothionein, which binds and inactivates cisplatin. It is not known whether zinc supplements or high dietary zinc intake can cause clinically significant interference with cisplatin therapy. Cisplatin might also increase zinc excretion.
Integrase Inhibitors
Theoretically, taking zinc along with integrase inhibitors might decrease the levels and clinical effects of these drugs.
Zinc is a divalent cation. Pharmacokinetic studies have shown that other divalent cations such as calcium and iron can decrease blood levels of the integrase inhibitor dolutegravir through chelation.
Penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)
Zinc might reduce the levels and clinical effects of penicillamine.
By forming an insoluble complex with penicillamine, zinc interferes with penicillamine absorption and activity. Zinc supplements reduce the efficacy of low-dose penicillamine (0.5-1 gram/day), but do not seem to affect higher doses (1-2.75 gram/day), provided dosing times are separated. Advise patients to take zinc and penicillamine at least 2 hours apart.
Quinolone Antibiotics
Zinc can decrease the levels and clinical effects of quinolones antibiotics.
Quinolones form complexes with zinc in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing absorption of both the quinolone and zinc if taken at the same time. Advise patients to take these drugs at least 2 hours before, or 4-6 hours after, zinc supplements.
Ritonavir (Norvir)
Zinc modestly reduces levels of ritonavir.
Clinical research shows that zinc might reduce serum ritonavir levels by chelating with ritonavir in the gut and preventing its absorption. In patients with HIV, ritonavir is taken with atazanavir to prevent the metabolism and increase the effects of atazanavir. A pharmacokinetic study shows that, in patients being treated with atazanavir/ritonavir, co-administration of zinc sulfate (Solvazinc tablets) 125 mg as a single dose or as multiple daily doses for 2 weeks reduces plasma levels of ritonavir by about 16%. However, atazanavir levels still remains high enough to prevent HIV virus replication. Therefore, the decrease in ritonavir levels is not likely to be clinically significant.
Tetracycline Antibiotics
Zinc might reduce levels of tetracycline antibiotics.
Tetracyclines form complexes with zinc in the gastrointestinal tract, which can reduce absorption of both the tetracycline and zinc when taken at the same time. Taking zinc sulfate 200 mg with tetracycline reduces absorption of the antibiotic by 30% to 40%. Demeclocycline and minocycline cause a similar interaction. However, doxycycline does not seem to interact significantly with zinc. Advise patients to take tetracyclines at least 2 hours before, or 4-6 hours after, zinc supplements to avoid any interactions.
Amiloride (Midamor)
Amiloride can modestly reduce zinc excretion and increase zinc levels.
Clinical research shows that amiloride can reduce urinary zinc excretion, especially at doses of 10 mg per day or more. This zinc-sparing effect can help to counteract zinc losses caused by thiazide diuretics, but it is unlikely to cause zinc toxicity at usual amiloride doses. The other potassium-sparing diuretics, spironolactone (Aldactone) and triamterene (Dyrenium), do not seem to have a zinc-sparing effect.
Atazanavir (Reyataz)
Zinc modestly reduces levels of atazanavir, although this effect does not seem to be clinically significant.
Clinical research shows that zinc might decrease serum atazanavir levels by chelating with atazanavir in the gut and preventing its absorption. Although a single dose of zinc sulfate (Solvazinc tablets) 125 mg orally does not affect atazanavir concentrations in patients being treated with atazanavir/ritonavir, co-administration of zinc sulfate 125 mg daily for 2 weeks reduces plasma levels of atazanavir by about 22% in these patients. However, despite this decrease, atazanavir levels still remain at high enough concentrations for the prevention of HIV virus replication.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief, from the product label.
Sambucol
See all Sambucol products- Name
- PharmaCare US, Inc.
- City
- San Diego
- State
- CA
- ZipCode
- 92108
- Phone Number
- 1-888-871-9098
- Web Address
- www.SambucolUSA.com
Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief by Sambucol: Common Questions
Does Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief by Sambucol interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
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Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Sulfur
Sulfur is a mineral used mainly in topical skin products for acne, rosacea, dandruff, and certain skin infections, and has a long history in dermatology. Topical sulfur is generally well tol...
Read the full Sulfur monograph → Herb & supplement monographBryonia
Bryonia is a toxic climbing vine that is mainly used today in homeopathic dilutions for coughs, pain, and inflammation, but solid scientific evidence that it works is lacking. The raw plant...
Read the full Bryonia monograph → Herb & supplement monographGelsemium
Gelsemium is a highly toxic flowering plant most often sold today in very dilute homeopathic forms for anxiety, headaches, and flu-like symptoms. There is little reliable scientific evidence...
Read the full Gelsemium monograph → Herb & supplement monographElderberry
Interacts with 121 drugsElderberry is a popular herbal supplement, mainly taken to help with colds and flu. Some small studies suggest it may modestly shorten cold or flu symptoms, but the evidence is limited and n...
Read the full Elderberry monograph → Herb & supplement monographZinc
Interacts with 67 drugsZinc is an essential mineral that your body needs for immune function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Most people get enough from food, but supplements can help correct or prevent a defici...
Read the full Zinc monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Black Elderberry Cold & Flu Relief'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 116 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.
Sulfur 17 references
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- Weiser, M., Gegenheimer, L. H., and Klein, P. A randomized equivalence trial comparing the efficacy and safety of Luffa comp.-Heel nasal spray with cromolyn sodium spray in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis. Forsch Komplementarmed 1999;6(3):142- PubMed
- FDA OTC ingredients list, April 2010. Available at: www.fda.gov/downloads/AboutFDA/CentersOffices/CDER/UCM135691.pdf (accessed 2/7/15).
- Leyden, J. J., McGinley, K. J., Mills, O. H., Kyriakopoulos, A. A., and Kligman, A. M. Effects of sulfur and salicylic acid in a shampoo base in the treatment of dandruff: a double-blind study using corneocyte counts and clinical grading. Cutis 1987;39(6)
- Trumbore, M. W., Goldstein, J. A., and Gurge, R. M. Treatment of papulopustular rosacea with sodium sulfacetamide 10%/sulfur 5% emollient foam. J Drugs Dermatol 2009;8(3):299-304.
- Pelle, M. T., Crawford, G. H., and James, W. D. Rosacea: II. Therapy. J Am Acad Dermatol 2004;51:499-512.
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- Gupta, A. K. and Nicol, K. The use of sulfur in dermatology. J Drugs Dermatol 2004;3(4):427-31.
- Akhavan, A. and Bershad, S. Topical acne drugs: review of clinical properties, systemic exposure, and safety. Am J Clin Dermatol 2003;4(7):473-92.
- Wilkinson RD, Adam JE, Murray JJ, Craig GE. Benzoyl peroxide and sulfur: foundation for acne management. Can Med Assoc J 1966;95(1):28-9.
- Food and Drug Administration. Classification of benzoyl peroxide as safe and effective and revision of labeling to drug facts format; topical acne drug products for over-the-counter human use; final rule. Federal Register 2010;75(42):9767-77.
- Lin, A. N., Reimer, R. J., and Carter, D. M. Sulfur revisited. J Am Acad Dermatol 1988;18(3):553-8.
- Goszcz, A., Kostka-Trabka, E., Grodzinska, L., et al. [The effect of treatment with sulphur water from the spring in Wieslaw in Busko-Solec on levels of lipids, the fibrinolytic system and thrombogenic platelet function in patients with arteriosclerosis].
- Contoli M, Gnesini G, Forini G, et al. Reducing agents decrease the oxidative burst and improve clinical outcomes in COPD patients: a randomised controlled trial on the effects of sulphurous thermal water inhalation. ScientificWorldJournal. 2013 Dec 23;20 PubMed
Bryonia 3 references
- Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Trans. S. Klein. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.
- Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.
- Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Gelsemium 2 references
- The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
- Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.
Elderberry 6 references
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- Elderberry (Sambucus species). The Poison Plant Patch, Novia Scotia Museum, 2007. Available at: http://museum.gov.ns.ca/poison/?section=species&id=117 (Accessed 16 October 2009).
- European elder. Canadian Poisonous Plants Information System. Available at: http://www.cbif.gc.ca/pls/pp/ppack.jump?p_null=all&p_psn=121&p_type=all&p_sci=comm&p_x=px (Accessed 16 October 2009).
- Raus K, Pleschka S, Klein P, Schoop R, Fisher P. Effect of an echinacea-based hot drink versus oseltamivir in Influenza treatment: a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, multicenter, noninferiority clinical trial. . Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2015;20;77:6 PubMed
- Ramachandran A, Antala D, Pudasainee P, Panginikkod S, Gupta H. A Plausible Association Between the Use of Elderberry and Autoimmune Hepatitis. Cureus 2022;14(4):e24250. PubMed
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Zinc 88 references
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- Hebel SK, ed. Drug Facts and Comparisons. 52nd ed. St. Louis: Facts and Comparisons, 1998.
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- Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2002.
- Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group. A randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial of high-dose supplementation with vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and zinc for age-related macular degeneration and vision loss. AREDS report no. 8. Arch Oph
- Greenberg JE, Lynn M, Kirsner RS, et al. Mucocutaneous pigmented macule as a result of zinc deposition. J Cutan Pathol 2002;29:613-5. PubMed
- Godfrey HR, Godfrey NJ, Godfrey JC, Riley D. A randomized clinical trial on the treatment of oral herpes with topical zinc oxide/glycine. Altern Ther Health Med 2001;7:49-56.
- Turner RB. Ineffectiveness of intranasal zinc gluconate for prevention of experimental rhinovirus colds. Clin Infect Dis 2001;33:1865-70. PubMed
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- Mossad SB. Effect of zincum gluconicum nasal gel on the duration and symptom severity of the common cold in otherwise healthy adults. QJM 2003;96:35-43. DOI
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- Jafek BW, Linschoten M, Murrow BW. Zicam Induced Anosmia. American Rhinologic Society 49th Annual Fall Scientific Meeting abstract. Orlando, Florida. September 20, 2003. http://app.american-rhinologic.org/programs/2003ARSFallProgram071503.pdf (Accessed 24
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- Kondo Y, Yamagata K, Satoh M, et al. Optimal administration schedule of cisplatin for bladder tumor with minimal induction of metallothionein. J Urol 2003;170:2467-70. PubMed
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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.
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