Brain Energy Ingredients & Drug Interactions
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Brain Energy 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
Brain Energy is a dietary supplement by Douglas Laboratories with 5 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for acetaminophen (tylenol) overdose support, liver health, urinary tract acidification.Based on those ingredients, 1,345 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Rhodiola rosea extract, Octacosanol, L-Tyrosine. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Brain Energy by Douglas Laboratories
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Brain Energy by Douglas Laboratories — 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 Brain Energy by Douglas Laboratories
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
Brain Energy contains five active ingredients. L-Methionine, L-Tyrosine, Octacosanol, DL-Phenylalanine, and Rhodiola rosea extract are the working components of this formula.
The product also contains inactive ingredients—hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, microcystalline cellulose, vegetable stearate, and silica—which serve as capsule material and binders but don't provide therapeutic effects.
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
The evidence for these ingredients is mixed and in many cases limited. L-Tyrosine appears possibly effective for cognitive function and memory, though it's ineffective for athletic performance.
For Phenylketonuria (PKU), it's rated effective. L-Methionine is possibly effective for neural tube birth defects, but evidence is insufficient to rate it for acetaminophen poisoning, hay fever, asthma, or colorectal cancer.
Octacosanol and Rhodiola rosea have insufficient evidence in our data for the conditions they're studied for—including athletic performance, Parkinson disease, hyperlipidemia, altitude sickness, anxiety, and arrhythmia. The overall evidence to support Brain Energy for cognitive or energy benefits is not established in our data.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
L-Methionine is generally well tolerated when consumed in food amounts, but high-dose supplements may cause side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and vomiting; it's rated likely safe during pregnancy and lactation. L-Tyrosine is generally well tolerated in healthy adults but not well studied in pregnancy or while breastfeeding; common side effects at higher doses include headache, fatigue, nausea, and heartburn.
Octacosanol is generally well tolerated for the studied durations, but long-term safety is limited, and it's best avoided in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Rhodiola is generally well tolerated for short-term use, though long-term safety hasn't been well studied; it should be avoided in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Common side effects of rhodiola include dizziness and changes in saliva production (dry mouth or excessive saliva). We hold no pregnancy/lactation data for DL-Phenylalanine.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
If you take antihypertensive drugs, antidiabetes drugs, levodopa or levodopa/carbidopa, thyroid hormones, blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs, beta-blockers, or medications metabolized by your liver (especially CYP2C9 substrates, losartan, P-glycoprotein substrates, or immunosuppressants), check your exact medications with the tool below before using this product.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Brain Energy might interest you if you're exploring cognitive support, though evidence for its ingredients isn't robust. If you take any blood pressure medications, diabetes drugs, thyroid hormones, Parkinson medications, blood thinners, or drugs metabolized by your liver, you should talk to your pharmacist before starting this product.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: several ingredients lack safety data—check with your pharmacist or doctor first.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 4 of 5 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Aug 23, 2020.
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 Brain Energy, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Douglas Laboratories |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 310539019559 |
| Net contents | 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Aug 23, 2020 |
| DSLD ID | 231987 |
| Product type | Other Combinations |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free |
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 Brain Energy by Douglas Laboratories, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| L-Methionine | 60 mg | -- |
| L-Tyrosine | 200 mg | -- |
| Octacosanol | 2 mg | -- |
| DL-Phenylalanine | 300 mg | -- |
| Rhodiola rosea extract | 75 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Microcystalline Cellulose, Vegetable Stearate, Silica
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.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested Usage: As a dietary supplement, adults take 1 capsule in the morning and 1 capsule with lunch, or as directed by your health professional.
Precautions
Warning:If you are pregnant, nursing, have any health condition or taking any medication, consult your health professional before using this product.
Phenylketonurics: Contains Phenylalanine.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Use only if safety seal is intact.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place.
Formulation
Gluten-free, Non-GMO
Dopamine support
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.
General Statements
Scan to learn about our manufacturing excellence Contents may not fill package in order to accommodate required labeling. Please rely on stated quantity.
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Brain Energy by Douglas Laboratories 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 Brain Energy by Douglas Laboratories
These are the 5 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Vegetarian Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule 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.
L-Methionine
No knowninteractions
Methionine is an essential amino acid that your body needs for protein building and many basic chemical reactions. Most people get enough from a norma...
L-Methionine monograph & interactionsL-Tyrosine
Interacts with21 drugs
L-tyrosine is an amino acid your body uses to make brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine. Some studies suggest it may help mental performan...
L-Tyrosine monograph & interactionsOctacosanol
Interacts with248 drugs
Octacosanol is a waxy long-chain alcohol from plant sources that is most often promoted for exercise endurance and cholesterol support, but solid huma...
Octacosanol monograph & interactionsDL-Phenylalanine
Rhodiola rosea extract
Interacts with1,271 drugs
Rhodiola is an herb traditionally used to fight fatigue and help the body cope with stress. Some small studies suggest it may modestly reduce fatigue...
Rhodiola rosea extract monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Microcystalline Cellulose, Vegetable Stearate, Silica. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Brain Energy by Douglas Laboratories Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Brain Energy by Douglas Laboratories contains five active ingredients, and our data shows that some of them do interact with medications.
The most serious finding involves rhodiola rosea extract, which can interfere with blood pressure control when combined with antihypertensive drugs (blood pressure medications) by potentially lowering your pressure further.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Octacosanol interacts with several medication types. It may add to the blood pressure-lowering effects of beta-blockers (heart and blood pressure drugs) and nitroprusside (a powerful IV blood pressure medication).
It can also theoretically affect blood thinners (anticoagulants and antiplatelets) like warfarin and aspirin, though clinical evidence suggests this effect may not be a major practical concern. Additionally, octacosanol might lower blood sugar (glucose) when used with diabetes medications, and one small study suggests it could worsen symptoms in people taking levodopa/carbidopa for Parkinson disease.
L-Tyrosine may decrease the effectiveness of levodopa (a Parkinson medication) and could have additive effects with thyroid hormone medications, potentially increasing thyroid hormone levels. Rhodiola also interacts with several other drug types: it may increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when combined with antidiabetes drugs, might increase losartan (a blood pressure medication) levels and side effects, and could theoretically affect drugs broken down by your liver's metabolizing enzymes (CYP2C9, CYP1A2, and CYP3A4 substrates), as well as P-glycoprotein substrates and immunosuppressants.
We could not check DL-Phenylalanine for interactions, as we hold no data on it. L-Methionine has no documented interactions in our files.
Altogether, these interactions span 1,327 individual medications. Please search your exact medications using the tool on this page before starting this product.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Brain Energy?
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 Brain Energy interact with 1,345 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
3 of the 5 ingredients in Brain Energy interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Rhodiola rosea extract Octacosanol L-Tyrosine
Betamethasone DipropionateSernivo
How Betamethasone Dipropionate interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractImmunosuppressants, P-glycoprotein Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, rhodiola use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Betamethasone Dipropionate interactionBetamethasone Dipropionate, CalcipotrieneEnstilar, Wynzora
How Betamethasone Dipropionate, Calcipotriene interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractP-glycoprotein Substrates, Immunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Betamethasone Dipropionate, Calcipotriene interactionBetamethasone ValerateLuxiq
How Betamethasone Valerate interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractImmunosuppressants, P-glycoprotein Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, rhodiola use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Betamethasone Valerate interactionBetaxololBetoptic, Kerlone
How Betaxolol interacts with Brain Energy — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Betaxolol interactionOctacosanolBeta-blockers Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of octacosanol with beta-blockers might result in additive hypotensive effects.
Read the full Octacosanol + Betaxolol interactionBetrixabanBevyxxa
How Betrixaban interacts with Brain Energy — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
OctacosanolAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, octacosanol might inhibit platelet aggregation; however, clinical research suggests that this effect may not be clinically significant.
Read the full Octacosanol + Betrixaban interactionRhodiola Rosea ExtractP-glycoprotein Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Betrixaban interactionBictegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir AlafenamideBiktarvy
How Bictegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, P-glycoprotein Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Bictegravir, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide interactionBimekizumab-bkzxBimzelx
How Bimekizumab-bkzx interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, rhodiola use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Bimekizumab-bkzx interactionBisoprololZebeta
How Bisoprolol interacts with Brain Energy — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
OctacosanolBeta-blockers Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of octacosanol with beta-blockers might result in additive hypotensive effects.
Read the full Octacosanol + Bisoprolol interactionRhodiola Rosea ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Bisoprolol interactionBisoprolol, HydrochlorothiazideZiac
How Bisoprolol, Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with Brain Energy — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Bisoprolol, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionOctacosanolBeta-blockers Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of octacosanol with beta-blockers might result in additive hypotensive effects.
Read the full Octacosanol + Bisoprolol, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionBivalirudinAngiomax, Angiomax Rtu, Angiox
How Bivalirudin interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
OctacosanolAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, octacosanol might inhibit platelet aggregation; however, clinical research suggests that this effect may not be clinically significant.
Read the full Octacosanol + Bivalirudin interactionBoceprevirVictrelis
How Boceprevir interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, P-glycoprotein Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Boceprevir interactionBosentanTracleer
How Bosentan interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Bosentan interactionBromfenac SodiumBromsite, Prolensa
How Bromfenac Sodium interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
OctacosanolAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, octacosanol might inhibit platelet aggregation; however, clinical research suggests that this effect may not be clinically significant.
Read the full Octacosanol + Bromfenac Sodium interactionBudesonide, FormoterolSymbicort
How Budesonide, Formoterol interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractCytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Budesonide, Formoterol interactionBumetanideBurinex
How Bumetanide interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Bumetanide interactionBumetanide (iv)Bumex
How Bumetanide (iv) interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Bumetanide (iv) interactionBumetanide (oral)Bumex
How Bumetanide (oral) interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Bumetanide (oral) interactionBupivacaine, MeloxicamZynrelef Kit
How Bupivacaine, Meloxicam interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractCytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Bupivacaine, Meloxicam interactionCabliviCablivi
How Cablivi interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
OctacosanolAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, octacosanol might inhibit platelet aggregation; however, clinical research suggests that this effect may not be clinically significant.
Read the full Octacosanol + Cablivi interactionCanagliflozinInvokana
How Canagliflozin interacts with Brain Energy — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Canagliflozin interactionOctacosanolAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, octacosanol might have additive effects when used in combination with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Octacosanol + Canagliflozin interactionCanagliflozin, MetforminInvokamet
How Canagliflozin, Metformin interacts with Brain Energy — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
OctacosanolAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, octacosanol might have additive effects when used in combination with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Octacosanol + Canagliflozin, Metformin interactionRhodiola Rosea ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Canagliflozin, Metformin interactionCanagliflozin, Metformin HydrochlorideInvokamet XR
How Canagliflozin, Metformin Hydrochloride interacts with Brain Energy — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Canagliflozin, Metformin Hydrochloride interactionOctacosanolAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, octacosanol might have additive effects when used in combination with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Octacosanol + Canagliflozin, Metformin Hydrochloride interactionCandesartan CilexetilAmias, Atacand
How Candesartan Cilexetil interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Candesartan Cilexetil interactionCandesartan Cilexetil, HydrochlorothiazideAtacand HCT
How Candesartan Cilexetil, Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Candesartan Cilexetil, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionCangrelorKengreal
How Cangrelor interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
OctacosanolAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, octacosanol might inhibit platelet aggregation; however, clinical research suggests that this effect may not be clinically significant.
Read the full Octacosanol + Cangrelor interactionCaptoprilAcepril, Capoten
How Captopril interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Captopril interactionCaptopril, HydrochlorothiazideAcezide, Capozide
How Captopril, Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Rhodiola Rosea ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Rhodiola Rosea Extract + Captopril, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionCarbidopaLodosyn
How Carbidopa interacts with Brain Energy — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
OctacosanolLevodopa/carbidopa (sinemet) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Concomitant use may worsen symptoms of Parkinson disease.
Read the full Octacosanol + Carbidopa interactionCarbidopa, LevodopaDhivy, Rytary, Sinemet, Sinemet CR
How Carbidopa, Levodopa interacts with Brain Energy — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
OctacosanolLevodopa/carbidopa (sinemet) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Concomitant use may worsen symptoms of Parkinson disease.
Read the full Octacosanol + Carbidopa, Levodopa interactionL-tyrosineLevodopa Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, tyrosine might decrease the effectiveness of levodopa.
Read the full L-tyrosine + Carbidopa, Levodopa interactionCarbidopa, Levodopa, EntacaponeStalevo
How Carbidopa, Levodopa, Entacapone interacts with Brain Energy — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-tyrosineLevodopa Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, tyrosine might decrease the effectiveness of levodopa.
Read the full L-tyrosine + Carbidopa, Levodopa, Entacapone interactionOctacosanolLevodopa/carbidopa (sinemet) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Concomitant use may worsen symptoms of Parkinson disease.
Read the full Octacosanol + Carbidopa, Levodopa, Entacapone interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Brain Energy 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.
Rhodiola rosea extract
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
In vitro and animal research shows that rhodiola extract can decrease blood glucose due to alpha-glucosidase activity.
Antihypertensive Drugs
Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
In vitro and animal research shows that rhodiola extract inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and might lower blood pressure.
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates
Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
In vitro research shows that rhodiola inhibits CYP2C9. This effect is highly variable and appears to be dependent on the rhodiola product studied. Also, a clinical study in healthy young males found that taking rhodiola extract 290 mg daily for 14 days reduces the metabolism of losartan, a CYP2C9 substrate, by 21% after 4 hours.
Immunosuppressants
Theoretically, rhodiola use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
In vitro and animal research show that rhodiola has immunostimulatory effects.
Losartan (Cozaar)
Rhodiola might increase the levels and adverse effects of losartan.
A clinical study in healthy young males found that taking rhodiola extract 290 mg daily for 14 days reduces the metabolism of losartan, a CYP2C9 substrate, by 21% after 4 hours.
P-Glycoprotein Substrates
Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
In vitro research shows that rhodiola inhibits P-glycoprotein. Theoretically, using rhodiola with P-glycoprotein substrates might increase drug levels and potentially increase the risk of adverse effects.
Antidepressant Drugs
Theoretically, rhodiola might increase the risk of adverse effects when taken with antidepressants.
A review of adverse event reports in Poland identified cases of tachyarrhythmias, myalgia, arthralgia, gum pain, restless leg syndrome, swallowing disorders, and changes in consciousness when rhodiola was taken in combination with paroxetine, escitalopram, fluoxetine, sertraline, trazodone, and/or duloxetine.
Cns Depressants
Theoretically, rhodiola might increase the risk of adverse effects when taken with CNS depressants.
A review of adverse event reports in Poland identified cases of excessive sedation, myoclonus, hypotension, and hallucinations when rhodiola was taken with haloperidol, diazepam, or alprazolam.
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates
Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
In vitro research shows that rhodiola inhibits CYP1A2. This effect is highly variable and appears to be dependent on the rhodiola product studied. However, a clinical study in healthy young males found that taking rhodiola extract 290 mg daily for 14 days does not inhibit the metabolism of caffeine, a CYP1A2 substrate.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research shows that rhodiola inhibits CYP3A4. This effect is highly variable and appears to be dependent on the rhodiola product studied. However, a clinical study in healthy young males found that taking rhodiola extract 290 mg daily for 14 days does not inhibit the metabolism of midazolam, a CYP3A4 substrate.
Octacosanol
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Theoretically, octacosanol might inhibit platelet aggregation; however, clinical research suggests that this effect may not be clinically significant.
Octacosanol is the main component of policosanol. Some clinical research shows that taking policosanol 10-50 mg daily for 7-15 days can inhibit platelet aggregation in healthy patients. However, one clinical trial shows that taking policosanol 10 mg twice daily for 2 weeks prior to initiating warfarin does not affect warfarin pharmacokinetics or warfarin response. Furthermore, a study in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with a drug-eluting stent found that taking policosanol 40 mg plus clopidogrel and aspirin daily for 30 days modestly reduced the risk for minor bleeding events when compared with taking clopidogrel and aspirin alone.
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, octacosanol might have additive effects when used in combination with antidiabetes drugs.
Octacosanol is the main component of policosanol. In humans, policosanol can decrease blood glucose. It is not clear if these effects occur with the use of octacosanol.
Beta-Blockers
Theoretically, concomitant use of octacosanol with beta-blockers might result in additive hypotensive effects.
Octacosanol is the main component of policosanol. Clinical research shows that policosanol 5 mg daily can have additive blood pressure-lowering effects in patients with hypertension who are taking beta-blockers. Also, animal research shows that policosanol can increase the hypotensive effects of propranolol. It is not clear if these effects occur with the use of octacosanol.
Levodopa/Carbidopa (Sinemet)
Concomitant use may worsen symptoms of Parkinson disease.
One small clinical study suggests that octacosanol might worsen dyskinesias and increase nervous tension in some patients being treated with levodopa/carbidopa.
Nitroprusside (Nitropress)
Theoretically, octacosanol might enhance the hypotensive effects of nitroprusside.
Octacosanol is the main component of policosanol. Animal research shows that taking policosanol along with nitroprusside can increase the hypotensive effects of nitroprusside. It is not clear if these effects occur with the use of octacosanol.
Propranolol (Inderal)
Theoretically, octacosanol might enhance the hypotensive effects of propranolol.
Octacosanol is the main component of policosanol. Animal research shows that taking policosanol along with propranolol can increase the blood pressure-lowering effects of propranolol. It is not clear if these effects occur with the use of octacosanol.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Theoretically, octacosanol might inhibit platelet aggregation; however, clinical research suggests that this effect may not be clinically significant.
Octacosanol is the main component of policosanol. Some clinical research shows that taking policosanol 10-50 mg daily for 7-15 days can inhibit platelet aggregation in healthy patients. Therefore, there is concern that taking policosanol with warfarin might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. However, one clinical trial shows that taking policosanol 10 mg twice daily for 2 weeks prior to warfarin dosing does not affect warfarin pharmacokinetics or warfarin response. It is not clear if these effects occur with the use of octacosanol.
L-Tyrosine
Levodopa
Theoretically, tyrosine might decrease the effectiveness of levodopa.
Tyrosine and levodopa compete for absorption in the proximal duodenum by the large neutral amino acid (LNAA) transport system. Advise patients to separate doses of tyrosine and levodopa by at least 2 hours.
Thyroid Hormone
Theoretically, tyrosine might have additive effects with thyroid hormone medications.
Tyrosine is a precursor to thyroxine and might increase levels of thyroid hormones.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Brain Energy, from the product label.
Douglas Laboratories
See all Douglas Laboratories products- Name
- Douglas Laboratories
- Street Address
- 600 Boyce Road
- City
- Pittsburgh
- State
- PA
- ZipCode
- 15205
- Phone Number
- 1.800.245.4440
- Web Address
- www.douglaslabs.com
Brain Energy by Douglas Laboratories: Common Questions
Does Brain Energy by Douglas Laboratories interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
What does L-Tyrosine do in this formula?
Is this safe to take during pregnancy?
Can I take this while breastfeeding?
What are the most common side effects?
Does this product contain fillers?
Will this help my memory?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Brain Energy 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 Brain Energy’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Methionine
Methionine is an essential amino acid that your body needs for protein building and many basic chemical reactions. Most people get enough from a normal diet, and supplements are generally no...
Read the full Methionine monograph → Herb & supplement monographTyrosine
Interacts with 21 drugsL-tyrosine is an amino acid your body uses to make brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine. Some studies suggest it may help mental performance during short-term stress, sleep loss,...
Read the full Tyrosine monograph → Herb & supplement monographOctacosanol
Interacts with 248 drugsOctacosanol is a waxy long-chain alcohol from plant sources that is most often promoted for exercise endurance and cholesterol support, but solid human evidence is limited and results are mi...
Read the full Octacosanol monograph → Herb & supplement monographRhodiola
Interacts with 1,271 drugsRhodiola is an herb traditionally used to fight fatigue and help the body cope with stress. Some small studies suggest it may modestly reduce fatigue and improve mood, but the evidence is li...
Read the full Rhodiola monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Brain Energy'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.
Methionine 12 references
- La Vecchia C, Negri E, Franceschi S, Decarli A. Case-control study on influence of methionine, nitrite, and salt on gastric carcinogenesis in northern Italy. Nutr Cancer 1997;27:65-8. PubMed
- Btaiche IF, Khalidi N. Parenteral nutrition-associated liver complications in children. Pharmacotherapy 2002;22:188-211.. PubMed
- Cottington EM, LaMantia C, Stabler SP, et al. Adverse event associated with methionine loading test: a case report. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2002;22:1046-50.. PubMed
- Anon. Should methionine be added to paracetamol formulations? Drug Ther Perspect 1997;10:11-3. DOI
- Smulders, Y. M., Rakic, M., Slaats, E. H., Treskes, M., Sijbrands, E. J., Odekerken, D. A., Stehouwer, C. D., and Silberbusch, J. Fasting and post-methionine homocysteine levels in NIDDM. Determinants and correlations with retinopathy, albuminuria, and c
- McAuley, D. F., Hanratty, C. G., McGurk, C., Nugent, A. G., and Johnston, G. D. Effect of methionine supplementation on endothelial function, plasma homocysteine, and lipid peroxidation. J.Toxicol.Clin.Toxicol. 1999;37(4):435-440. PubMed
- Hanratty, C. G., McGrath, L. T., McAuley, D. F., Young, I. S., and Johnston, G. D. The effects of oral methionine and homocysteine on endothelial function. Heart 2001;85(3):326-330. PubMed
- Ward, M., McNulty, H., McPartlin, J., Strain, J. J., Weir, D. G., and Scott, J. M. Effect of supplemental methionine on plasma homocysteine concentrations in healthy men: a preliminary study. Int.J.Vitam.Nutr.Res. 2001;71(1):82-86. PubMed
- Yaghmai, R., Kashani, A. H., Geraghty, M. T., Okoh, J., Pomper, M., Tangerman, A., Wagner, C., Stabler, S. P., Allen, R. H., Mudd, S. H., and Braverman, N. Progressive cerebral edema associated with high methionine levels and betaine therapy in a patient
- Talukdar R, Murthy HV, Reddy DN. Role of methionine containing antioxidant combination in the management of pain in chronic pancreatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pancreatology 2015;15(2):136-44. PubMed
- Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrate, Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein, and Amino Acids. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press, 2005. Available at: https://doi.org/10.17226 DOI
- Khairan P, Sobue T, Eshak ES, et al. Association of B Vitamins and Methionine Intake with the Risk of Gastric Cancer: The Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2022;15(2):101-110. PubMed
Tyrosine 4 references
- Meyer JS, Welch KM, Deshmukh VD, et al. Neurotransmitter precursor amino acids in the treatment of multi-infarct dementia and Alzheimer's disease. J Amer Geriat Soc 1977;25:289-98.
- DiPiro JT, Talbert RL, Yee GC, et al; eds. Pharmacotherapy: A pathophysiologic approach. 4th ed. Stamford, CT: Appleton & Lange, 1999.
- Wood DR, Reimherr FW, Wender PH. Amino acid precursors for the treatment of attention deficit disorder, residual type. Psychopharmacol Bull 1985;21:146-9.
- van Spronsen FJ, van Rijn M, Bekhof J. Phenylketonuria: tyrosine supplementation in phenylalanine-restricted diets. Am J Clin Nutr 2001;73:153-7. PubMed
Octacosanol 16 references
- Carbajal D, Arruzazabala ML, Valdes S, Mas R. Effect of policosanol on platelet aggregation and serum levels of arachidonic acid metabolites in healthy volunteers. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1998;58:61-4.
- Arruzazabala ML, Valdes S, Mas R, et al. Comparative study of policosanol, aspirin and the combination therapy policosanol-aspirin on platelet aggregation in healthy volunteers. Pharmacol Res 1997;36:293-7. PubMed
- Valdes S, Arruzazabala ML, Fernandez L. Effect of policosanol on platelet aggregation in healthy volunteers. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res 1996;16:67-72.
- Snider S. Octacosanol in parkinsonism. Ann Neurol 1984;16:723. PubMed
- Greyling A, De Witt C, Oosthuizen W, Jerling JC. Effects of a policosanol supplement on serum lipid concentrations in hypercholesterolaemic and heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemic subjects. Br J Nutr 2006;95:968-75. PubMed
- Abdul MI, Jiang X, Williams KM, et al. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions of echinacea and policosanol with warfarin in healthy subjects. Br J Clin.Pharmacol. 2010;69:508-15. PubMed
- Molina, Cuevas, V, Arruzazabala, M. L., Carbajal, Quintana D., Mas, Ferreiro R., and Valdes, Garcia S. Effect of policosanol on arterial blood pressure in rats. Study of the pharmacological interaction with nifedipine and propranolol. Arch Med Res 1998;29
- Menendez, R., Mas, R., Amor, A. M., Gonzalez, R. M., Fernandez, J. C., Rodeiro, I., Zayas, M., and Jimenez, S. Effects of policosanol treatment on the susceptibility of low density lipoprotein (LDL) isolated from healthy volunteers to oxidative modificat
- Castano G, Fernandez L, Mas R, et al. Comparison of the efficacy, safety and tolerability of original policosanol versus other mixtures of higher aliphatic primary alcohols in patients with type II hypercholesterolemia. Int.J.Clin.Pharmacol.Res. 2002;22:5
- Arruzazabala, M. L., Carbajal, D., Mas, R., Valdes, S., and Molina, V. Pharmacological Interaction Between Policosanol and Nitroprusside in Rats. J Med Food 2001;4(2):67-70. PubMed
- Castano G, Mas R, Gamez R, et al. Concomitant use of policosanol and beta-blockers in older patients. Int J Clin Pharmacol.Res 2004;24:65-77.
- Francini-Pesenti F, Brocadello F, Beltramolli D, et al. Sugar cane policosanol failed to lower plasma cholesterol in primitive, diet-resistant hypercholesterolaemia: A double blind, controlled study. Complement Ther Med 2008;16:61-65. PubMed
- Castaño G, Fernández L, Mas R, Illnait J, Mesa M, Fernández JC. Comparison of the effects of policosanol and atorvastatin on lipid profile and platelet aggregation in patients with dyslipidaemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clin Drug Investig. 2003;23(10 PubMed
- Wang HY, Jiao QP, Chen SY, et al. Efficacy and safety of policosanol plus fenofibrate combination therapy in elderly patients with mixed dyslipidemia: A randomized, controlled clinical study. Am J Med Sci. 2018;356(3):254-261. PubMed
- Xu K, Liu X, Li Y, Wang Y, Zang H, Guo L, et al. Safety and efficacy of policosanol in patients with high on-treatment platelet reactivity after drug-eluting stent implantation: two-year follow-up results. Cardiovasc Ther. 2016 Oct;34(5):337-42. doi: 10.1 PubMed
- Li C, Ding Y, Si Q, Li K, Xu K. Multiple functions of policosanol in elderly patients with dyslipidemia. J Int Med Res. 2020;48(7):300060520936082. PubMed
Rhodiola 13 references
- Kim SH, Hyun SH, Choung SY. Antioxidative effects of Cinnamomi cassiae and Rhodiola rosea extracts in liver of diabetic mice. Biofactors 2006;26:209-19.
- Kwon YI, Jang HD, Shetty K. Evaluation of Rhodiola crenulata and Rhodiola rosea for management of type II diabetes and hypertension. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr 2006;15:425-32.
- Bystritsky A, Kerwin L, Feusner JD. A pilot study of Rhodiola rosea (Rhodax) for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). J Altern Complement Med 2008;14:175-80.
- Shevtsov VA, Zholus BI, Shervarly VI, et al. A randomized trial of two different doses of a SHR-5 Rhodiola rosea extract versus placebo and control of capacity for mental work. Phytomedicine 2003;10:95-105. PubMed
- Apostolidis E, Kwon YI, Shetty K. Potential of cranberry-based herbal synergies for diabetes and hypertension management. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr 2006;15:433-41.
- Hellum BH, Tosse A, Hoybakk K, et al. Potent in vitro inhibition of CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein by Rhodiola rosea. Planta Med 2010;76:331-8.
- Skopriska-Rozewska E, Wojcik R, Siwicki AK, et al. The effect of Rhodiola quadrifida extracts on cellular immunity in mice and rats. Pol J Vet Sci 2008;11:105-11.
- Mishra KP, Chanda S, Shukla K, Ganju L. Adjuvant effect of aqueous extract of Rhodiola imbricate rhizome on the immune responses to tetanus toxoid and ovalbumin in rats. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2010;32:141-6.
- Li HX, Sze SC, Tong Y, Ng TB. Production of Th1- and Th2-dependent cytokines induced by the Chinese medicine herb, Rhodiola algida, on human peripheral blood monocytes. J Ethnopharmacol 2009;123:257-66. PubMed
- Mishra KP, Ganju L, Chanda S, et al. Aqueous extract of Rhodiola imbricate rhizome stimulates Toll-like receptor 4, granzyme-B and Th1 cytokines in vitro. Immunobiology 2009;214:27-31.
- Thu OK, Nilsen OG, Hellum B. In vitro inhibition of cytochrome P-450 activities and quantification of constituents in a selection of commercial Rhodiola rosea products. Pharm Bio. 2016 Dec;54(12):3249-3256.
- Thu OK, Spigset O, Nilsen OG, Hellum B. Effect of commercial Rhodiola rosea on CYP enzyme activity in humans. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 2016 Mar;72(3):295-300. PubMed
- Woron J, Siwek M. Unwanted effects of psychotropic drug interactions with medicinal products and diet supplements containing plant extracts. Psychiatr Pol 2018;52(6):983-96. 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