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Dietary supplement

Cacao Alchemy Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by HealthForce SuperFoods

Powder Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Cacao Alchemy is a dietary supplement by HealthForce SuperFoods with 12 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for preventing or treating copper deficiency, supporting red blood cell formation, bone and connective tissue health.Based on those ingredients, 2,267 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Dietary Fiber, Carob, Adaptogen Tonic Blend. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Cacao Alchemy by HealthForce SuperFoods

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Low disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Low

Most active ingredients don't disclose an individual amount — you can't tell how much of each you're getting.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 4 of its 17 active ingredients.
  • “Cacao Alchemy Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (1,709 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Adaptogen Tonic Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (792 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Cacao Alchemy contains 16 active ingredients blended into two groups: a Cacao Alchemy Blend and an Adaptogen Tonic Blend. The cacao blend includes cacao itself, carob, mesquite, and lucuma—all food-based sources of flavor, fiber, and trace nutrients.

The adaptogen tonic blend includes ashwagandha, chaga mushroom extract, reishi mushroom extract, cordyceps mushroom extract, astragalus, and schisandra berry extract—traditional herbal adaptogens used to support stress resilience and energy. The product also delivers minerals: copper, iron, and manganese, plus Ceylon cinnamon and chili pepper (capsicum) for additional flavor and bioactive compounds.

There are no inactive ingredients listed.

Does it work?

Strong evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed

This product doesn't appear to be marketed for a specific use, so we graded its ingredients' overall clinical evidence instead.

Strong

Strong clinical evidence supports its ingredients for:

Why this rating?
  • We looked at the product name, claims, and label statements and couldn't find a stated purpose to grade.
  • Since the label doesn't commit to one use, we graded the ingredients' overall clinical evidence instead.
  • On file: Anemia of chronic disease — rated "Effective" (Iron) (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Constipation — rated "Effective" (Black Psyllium) (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Iron deficiency anemia — rated "Effective" (Iron) (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Manganese deficiency — rated "Effective" (Manganese) (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Pregnancy-related iron deficiency — rated "Effective" (Iron) (Natural Medicines).

The evidence for this product's ingredients is mixed and mostly incomplete. Iron is effective for iron-deficiency anemia and pregnancy-related iron deficiency.

Chili pepper is likely effective for nerve pain after shingles and diabetic nerve damage. Nopal cactus is possibly effective for diabetes, and ashwagandha is possibly effective for insomnia, anxiety, and stress.

Ceylon cinnamon, however, is possibly ineffective for diabetes and obesity despite popular claims. Manganese is effective only for manganese deficiency itself.

For most other conditions—including general wellness, athletic performance, and cognitive decline—the evidence we hold is insufficient to rate these ingredients, meaning the data doesn't yet support their use for those purposes.

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 14 of the 14 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 14 of 14.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 14 of 14.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Most ingredients are generally well tolerated in food and typical supplement amounts. Iron commonly causes constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain orally.

Chili pepper causes burning and gastrointestinal upset in some people. Ashwagandha, schisandra, and the mushroom extracts are generally well tolerated short-term but lack long-term human safety data.

Ashwagandha has been linked to rare cases of acute liver failure and hepatitis. Manganese at high doses carries a rare risk of Parkinson-like neurological damage.

Copper is safe in food and standard supplement amounts but toxic in excess; women on oral contraceptives may accumulate elevated copper levels. For pregnancy: copper is likely safe and needed in pregnancy but avoid high-dose supplements; iron is generally recommended in pregnancy under prenatal care guidance; Ceylon cinnamon is likely safe but possibly unsafe at certain doses; ashwagandha is traditionally thought to risk miscarriage and should be avoided; chaga, cordyceps, reishi, astragalus, and schisandra lack adequate safety data and should be avoided.

For breastfeeding: iron, copper, and Ceylon cinnamon are generally acceptable at recommended doses; ashwagandha, chaga, cordyceps, reishi, astragalus, and schisandra lack adequate safety data and should be avoided.

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 14 of the 14 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Black Psyllium, Manganese, Carob, Ceylon Cinnamon, Schisandra, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications; lithium; Parkinson's medications.
  • For scale: 2,268 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Double-check before starting if you take blood pressure medications (antihypertensive drugs), diabetes medications (antidiabetes drugs), blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs, thyroid hormones, quinolone or tetracycline antibiotics, bisphosphonates, levodopa, methyldopa, levothyroxine, penicillamine, benzodiazepines, CNS depressants, immunosuppressants, tacrolimus, midazolam, warfarin, or theophylline. Several ingredients—iron, copper, manganese, chili pepper, Ceylon cinnamon, ashwagandha, chaga, reishi, nopal cactus, cordyceps, astragalus, and schisandra—have documented interactions with one or more of these drug types.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with strong clinical evidence behind its ingredients' uses. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

If you take any blood pressure or diabetes medications, blood thinners, thyroid drugs, antibiotics, or immunosuppressants, run this product through the medication checker below with your exact prescriptions first—the iron, minerals, and adaptogenic herbs create real interaction risks. Cacao Alchemy is generally well tolerated in healthy adults not on regular medications, though it commonly causes mild gastrointestinal upset.

Avoid it during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless your doctor advises otherwise. Talk to your pharmacist before adding it to your routine.

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

Assessment coverage: 14 of 17 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jun 24, 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

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Cacao Alchemy, straight from the product label.

Brand HealthForce SuperFoods
Barcode (UPC) 650786000109
Net contents 150 Gram(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jun 24, 2020
DSLD ID 228864
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Powder
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Vegan, Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Kosher, Organic, Gluten Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Cacao Alchemy by HealthForce SuperFoods, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
2.5 Gram(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2.5 Gram(s)
Servings per container
60
UPC/BARCODE
650786000109
IngredientAmount% DV
Copper0.03 mg3%
Calories10 Calorie(s)--
Total Carbohydrates2 Gram(s)1%
Dietary Fiber2 Gram(s)7%
Iron0.3 mg2%
Manganese0.1 mg3%
Cacao Alchemy Blend1709 mg--
Cacao0 NP--
Carob0 NP--
Mesquite0 NP--
Lucuma0 NP--
Chili Pepper0 NP--
Ceylon Cinnamon0 NP--
Nopal Cactus0 NP--
Adaptogen Tonic Blend792 mg--
Ashwagandha0 NP--
Chaga sclerotium extract0 NP--
Red Reishi Mushroom extract0 NP--
Cordyceps Mushroom extract0 NP--
Astragalus0 NP--
Schisandra berry extract0 NP--

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formula

Cacao Alchemy combines organic raw Ecuadorian Arriba Criollo heirloom cacao powder (chocolate in its purest form) with nutrientdense superfoods carob, lucuma, and mesquite pod. These foods act as natural whole-food, low-glycemic sweeteners to help balance out the beneficial bitter element of the antioxidant-rich cacao. Known as the “Food of the Gods” by the ancient Mayan culture, cacao was thought to be a sacred and medicinal food. Our adaptogenic tonic blend contains both whole roots (ashwagandha and astragalus) and pure extracts (schisandra, reishi, cordyceps, and chaga). Adaptogens help boost the body’s innate ability to cope with stress and fatigue, thus promoting general vitality and well being. Adaptogens are extremely beneficial allies for maintaining a healthy body and mind in today’s modern world.

Adaptogen tonic

OU Pareve (Kosher)

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested use: 1 teaspoon per day. Try adding to your favorite organic, plant-based “milk” (hot or cold, with optional sweetener of choice). Consume with conscious, positive intent.

Seals/Symbols

TruGanic Verified TruGanic Sourcing

Lab Verified

USDA Organic OTCO Certified Vegan Vegan.org GF Certified Gluten-free OU Pareve (Kosher)

Formulation

Eco facility

Vegan ethics

GF Certified Gluten-free

Certified organic by Oregon Tilth

General Statements

Ecofresh packaging

"I wish you great health and happiness alwasy!" Dr. Jameth Sheridan – Naturopath and Hard-Core Herbal Medicine Researcher

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

See for yourself

Cacao Alchemy by HealthForce SuperFoods label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Cacao Alchemy by HealthForce SuperFoods

These are the 12 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size2.5 Gram(s) Dosage formPowder 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.

Copper

Interacts with
31 drugs
0.03 mg per serving

Copper is an essential trace mineral your body needs in small amounts for making red blood cells, supporting nerves and bones, and helping enzymes wor...

Copper monograph & interactions

Dietary Fiber

Interacts with
2,025 drugs
2 Gram(s) per serving

Black psyllium is a soluble-fiber supplement made from the seeds of a Plantago plant, used mostly to ease constipation and support digestive health. I...

Dietary Fiber monograph & interactions

Iron

Interacts with
80 drugs
0.3 mg per serving

Iron is an essential mineral your body needs to make hemoglobin and carry oxygen in the blood. Supplements are mainly useful for treating or preventin...

Iron monograph & interactions

Manganese

Interacts with
83 drugs
0.1 mg per serving

Manganese is an essential trace mineral your body needs in small amounts for bone formation, metabolism, and antioxidant defense, and most people get...

Manganese monograph & interactions

Cacao Alchemy Blend

1709 mg per serving

Adaptogen Tonic Blend

Interacts with
327 drugs
792 mg per serving

Jiaogulan is a climbing vine used in traditional Chinese medicine as an adaptogen and for heart, blood sugar, and cholesterol support. Early human and...

Adaptogen Tonic Blend monograph & interactions
Interaction report

Cacao Alchemy by HealthForce SuperFoods Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Cacao Alchemy?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
2,267Drugs
1,478 Moderate 789 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Carob 2,022

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Cacao Alchemy 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.

Dietary Fiber7 drug types · 2,025 drugs

Carbamazepine (Tegretol)

Theoretically, black psyllium might reduce the effects of carbamazepine and increase the risk for convulsions.
Theoretically, black psyllium might reduce carbamazepine absorption. A preliminary study using blond psyllium reported decreased carbamazepine bioavailability due to binding of the drug to psyllium, as well as reduction of available fluid in the gut for dissolution of the drug. This interaction may also occur with black psyllium.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Lithium

Theoretically, taking black psyllium at the same time as lithium might reduce lithium absorption.
The fiber in black psyllium might reduce lithium absorption and plasma levels. Some case reports describe a reduction in plasma lithium levels with concomitant administration of blond psyllium. This was reversed when psyllium was stopped. This interaction may also occur with black psyllium.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Metformin (Glucophage)

Theoretically, black psyllium might increase the therapeutic and adverse effects of metformin.
Animal research shows that concurrent consumption of blond psyllium with metformin slows and increases the absorption of metformin. This interaction may also occur with black psyllium. To avoid changes in absorption, take psyllium 30-60 minutes after metformin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Olanzapine (Zyprexa)

Theoretically, taking black psyllium at the same time as olanzapine might reduce olanzapine absorption.
The fiber in black psyllium might decrease the absorption of olanzapine. A single case report describes a reduction in the effectiveness of olanzapine when it was concomitantly administered with an unspecified type of psyllium 3 grams orally twice daily. This effect was reversed when psyllium was stopped.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Theoretically, taking black psyllium at the same time as digoxin might reduce digoxin absorption and decrease digoxin levels.
Psyllium might bind digoxin in the gut. However, some clinical evidence suggests that psyllium does not impact digoxin absorption.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Ethinyl Estradiol

Theoretically, taking black psyllium at the same time as ethinyl estradiol might alter levels of estradiol.
Concurrent use of blond psyllium with ethinyl estradiol results in a slight increase in the extent of ethinyl estradiol absorption and a slower rate of absorption. This is unlikely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Oral Drugs

Theoretically, psyllium might increase, decrease, or have no effect on the absorption of oral drugs.
Psyllium seems to have variable effects on drug absorption. To avoid changes in absorption, take psyllium 30-60 minutes after oral medications. Animal research shows that blond psyllium delays and increases the absorption of metformin and ethinyl estradiol. Case reports and animal research suggest that blond psyllium might reduce absorption of lithium, digoxin, olanzapine, and carbamazepine. Finally, some pharmacokinetic studies show that psyllium does not affect the absorption of levothyroxine or warfarin. Although many of these studies evaluated blond psyllium, the fiber content in black psyllium may have similar effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

Carob1 drug type · 2,022 drugs

Oral Drugs

Theoretically, carob might also impair the absorption of oral drugs.
Laboratory research shows that carob, when consumed as part of the diet or used as a thickening agent in infant formula, reduces the absorption of certain minerals. Take carob 30-60 minutes after oral medications.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Adaptogen Tonic Blend3 drug types · 327 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, jiaogulan might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro research suggests that jiaogulan has antiplatelet effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, jiaogulan might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Clinical research shows that jiaogulan can lower blood glucose levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, jiaogulan might decrease the effectiveness of immunosuppressive therapy.
Clinical and animal studies suggest that jiaogulan can stimulate the immune system.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Ceylon Cinnamon2 drug types · 258 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, Ceylon cinnamon may have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs.
Ceylon cinnamon may lower blood glucose levels. Dose adjustments might be necessary.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, Ceylon cinnamon might have additive effects with antihypertensive drugs and increase the risk of hypotension.
Animal research shows that Ceylon cinnamon extract has vasorelaxant properties and reduces blood pressure in rat models of hypertension, possibly via inhibition of calcium influx through L-type voltage-sensitive channels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Chili Pepper6 drug types · 239 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, capsicum may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro research shows that capsicum might increase the effects of antiplatelet drugs. Also, population research shows that capsicum is associated with an increased risk of self-reported bleeding in patients taking warfarin. However, clinical research shows that taking a single dose of capsaicin (Asian Herbex Ltd.), the active ingredient in capsicum, 400-800 mcg orally in combination with aspirin 500 mg does not decrease platelet aggregation when compared with taking aspirin 500 mg alone. Also, there was no notable effect on measures of platelet aggregation with capsaicin. It is unclear whether capsaicin must be used in more than a single dose to affect platelet aggregation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking capsicum with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Preliminary clinical research shows that consuming capsicum 5 grams along with a glucose drink attenuates the rise in plasma glucose after 30 minutes by 21%, decreases the 2-hour postprandial area under the curve of plasma glucose by 11%, and increases the 2-hour postprandial area under the curve of plasma insulin by 58% in healthy individuals when compared with placebo. Other clinical research shows that taking capsicum 5 mg daily for 28 days significantly reduces postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels, but not fasting blood glucose and insulin levels, in patients with gestational diabetes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Aspirin

Theoretically, taking capsicum with aspirin might reduce the bioavailability of aspirin.
Animal research shows that acute or chronic intake of capsicum pepper reduces oral aspirin bioavailability. This has not been shown in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Theophylline

Theoretically, taking capsicum with theophylline might increase the levels and adverse effects of theophylline.
In animal research, oral administration of capsicum reduced excretion of theophylline. However, capsicum does not seem to affect the pharmacokinetics of theophylline when administered intravenously.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Ace Inhibitors (Aceis)

Theoretically, using topical capsaicin may increase the risk of ACE inhibitor-induced cough.
There is one case report of a topically applied capsaicin cream contributing to the cough reflex in a patient using an ACEI. However, it is unclear if this interaction is clinically significant.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)

Theoretically, taking capsicum with ciprofloxacin might increase levels and adverse effects of ciprofloxacin.
Animal research shows that concomitant use of capsaicin, the active constituent of capsicum, and ciprofloxacin increases the bioavailability of ciprofloxacin by up to 70%.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Nopal Cactus1 drug type · 86 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Combining prickly pear cactus with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Case reports show that combining prickly pear cactus with antidiabetes drugs such as chlorpropamide, glyburide, glipizide, and metformin can increase the risk of hypoglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes. Advise patients to monitor glucose levels closely. Dose adjustments may be necessary.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D

Manganese3 drug types · 83 drugs

Antipsychotic Drugs

Theoretically, the risk for manganese toxicity might increase when taken with antipsychotic drugs.
Hallucinations and behavioral changes have been reported in a patient with liver disease who was taking haloperidol and manganese. Researchers speculate that taking manganese along with haloperidol, phenothiazine-derivatives, or other antipsychotic medications might increase the risk of manganese toxicity in some patients.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Quinolone Antibiotics

Theoretically, manganese might reduce the absorption of quinolone antibiotics.
Manganese is a multivalent cation. Interactions resulting in reduced quinolone absorption have been reported between quinolones and other multivalent cations, such as calcium and iron.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Tetracycline Antibiotics

Theoretically, manganese might reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics.
Manganese is a multivalent cation. Interactions resulting in reduced tetracycline absorption have been reported between tetracyclines and other multivalent cations, such as calcium and iron.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D

Iron13 drug types · 80 drugs

Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)

Iron might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption when taken in a fasting state.
Advise patients that bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide and iron can be taken together if taken with food. However, if taken on an empty stomach, bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide should not be taken with, or 2 hours after, iron containing products.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Bisphosphonates

Iron reduces the absorption of bisphosphonates.
Advise patients that doses of bisphosphonates should be separated by at least two hours from doses of all other medications, including supplements such as iron. Divalent cations, including iron, can decrease absorption of bisphosphonates by forming insoluble complexes in the gastrointestinal tract.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Denosumab (Prolia, Others)

Administration of intravenous iron within one month of denosumab administration might increase the risk of severe hypophosphatemia and hypocalcemia.
A case of severe hypocalcemia (albumin corrected calcium 6.88 mg/dL, ionized calcium 3.68 mg/dL) and hypophosphatemia (<0.5 mg/dL) with respiratory acidosis, QT interval prolongation, and nonsustained ventricular tachycardia was reported in a 76-year-old male who had received an iron polymaltose infusion within 2 weeks of a subcutaneous injection of denosumab. Serum parathyroid hormone was also elevated (348 pg/mL). Subsequent iron infusions with iron polymaltose and ferric carboxymaltose were followed by transient hypophosphatemia, but without hypocalcemia. Additionally, a literature review describes 6 additional cases of hypophosphatemia and hypocalcemia in patients 52-92 years of age who had been administered intravenous iron as either ferric carboxymaltose or iron polymaltose and subcutaneous denosumab within 1-4 weeks of each other.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Dolutegravir (Tivicay)

Iron might decrease dolutegravir levels by reducing its absorption.
Advise patients to take dolutegravir at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking iron. Pharmacokinetic research shows that iron can decrease the absorption of dolutegravir from the gastrointestinal tract through chelation. When taken under fasting conditions, a single dose of ferrous fumarate 324 mg orally along with dolutegravir 50 mg reduces overall exposure to dolutegravir by 54%.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Integrase Inhibitors

Theoretically, taking iron along with integrase inhibitors might decrease the levels and clinical effects of these drugs.
Iron is a divalent cation. There is concern that iron may decrease the absorption of integrase inhibitors from the gastrointestinal tract through chelation. One pharmacokinetic study shows that iron can decrease blood levels of the specific integrase inhibitor dolutegravir through chelation. Also, other pharmacokinetic research shows that other divalent cations such as calcium can decrease the absorption and levels of some integrase inhibitors through chelation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Levodopa

Iron might decrease levodopa levels by reducing its absorption.
Advise patients to separate doses of levodopa and iron as much as possible. There is some evidence in healthy people that iron forms chelates with levodopa, reducing the amount of levodopa absorbed by around 50%. The clinical significance of this hasn't been determined.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)

Iron might decrease levothyroxine levels by reducing its absorption.
Advise patients to separate levothyroxine and iron doses by at least 2 hours. Iron can decrease the absorption and efficacy of levothyroxine by forming insoluble complexes in the gastrointestinal tract.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Methyldopa (Aldomet)

Iron might decrease methyldopa levels by reducing its absorption.
Advise patients to separate methyldopa and iron doses by at least 2 hours. Iron can decrease the absorption of methyldopa from the gastrointestinal tract through chelation, resulting in increases in blood pressure.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Mycophenolate Mofetil (Cellcept)

Theoretically, iron might decrease mycophenolate mofetil levels by reducing its absorption.
Advise patients to take iron 4-6 hours before, or 2 hours after, mycophenolate mofetil. It has been suggested that a decrease of absorption is possible, probably by forming nonabsorbable chelates. However, mycophenolate pharmacokinetics are not affected by iron supplementation in available clinical research.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)

Iron might decrease penicillamine levels by reducing its absorption.
Advise patients to separate penicillamine and iron doses by at least 2 hours. Oral iron supplements can reduce absorption of penicillamine by 30% to 70%, probably due to chelate formation. In people with Wilson's disease, this interaction has led to reduced efficacy of penicillamine.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Quinolone Antibiotics

Iron might decrease levels of quinolone antibiotics by reducing their absorption.
Advise patients to separate quinolone antibiotics and iron doses by at least 2 hours. Iron decreases the absorption of quinolones due to formation of insoluble complexes in the gastrointestinal tract.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Tetracycline Antibiotics

Iron might decrease levels of tetracycline antibiotics by reducing their absorption.
Advise patients to take iron at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after tetracycline antibiotics. Concomitant use can decrease absorption of tetracycline antibiotics from the gastrointestinal tract by 50% to 90%.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Chloramphenicol

Theoretically, taking chloramphenicol with iron might reduce the response to iron therapy in iron deficiency anemia.
Chloramphenicol interferes with erythrocyte maturation. However, since chloramphenicol isn't usually taken for prolonged periods, this isn't likely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D

Copper2 drug types · 31 drugs

Penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)

Theoretically, taking copper with penicillamine might decrease the absorption of penicillamine; separate dosing by at least 2 hours.
Copper chelates penicillamine, which decreases its absorption and may reduce its clinical effects.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking copper with contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and toxic effects of copper.
A meta-analysis of clinical studies suggests that chronic use of oral contraceptives increases serum copper levels by a mean of 57 mcg/dL. In most people, this resulted in levels above the normal reference range for copper.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Cacao Alchemy, from the product label.

HealthForce SuperFoods

See all HealthForce SuperFoods products
Name
Excelsior Alchemy
City
Tempe
State
AZ
ZipCode
85284
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Cacao Alchemy by HealthForce SuperFoods: Common Questions

Does Cacao Alchemy by HealthForce SuperFoods interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Cacao Alchemy has a known interaction with 2,267 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Cacao Alchemy contains 12 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take this if I'm on levothyroxine for my thyroid?
No, not without talking to your pharmacist first. Iron in this product binds levothyroxine and cuts its absorption in half. You'd need to separate them by at least 2 hours. Additionally, ashwagandha in the blend might increase thyroid hormone effects. Run this past your pharmacist with your exact dose.
Does this help with blood sugar control if I have diabetes?
Some ingredients—nopal cactus, Ceylon cinnamon, ashwagandha, chaga, and astragalus—are possibly or slightly effective for blood sugar support in research. But if you take diabetes medication, these same ingredients may lower your blood sugar further, risking dangerous lows. Check with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Is this safe during pregnancy?
No. Ashwagandha is traditionally thought to risk miscarriage and should be avoided. Chaga, cordyceps, reishi, astragalus, and schisandra lack adequate pregnancy safety data. Iron is normally recommended in pregnancy but should be dosed by your prenatal care provider, and copper and Ceylon cinnamon are generally safe at food amounts but avoid high-dose supplements. Talk to your OB/GYN before using this product.
Will this cause side effects?
Iron commonly causes constipation, diarrhea, nausea, or abdominal pain. Chili pepper can cause burning and gastrointestinal upset. Ashwagandha may cause drowsiness or digestive upset. The mushroom and herbal extracts are generally mild. Start with a small amount to see how you tolerate it.
Can I take this with my blood thinner (warfarin or aspirin)?
Possibly not safely. Chili pepper, chaga, and cordyceps all theoretically increase bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs. Schisandra may also lower warfarin effectiveness. Do not take this product without your doctor's approval if you're on blood thinners.
What does the 'adaptogen' blend do?
Adaptogens like ashwagandha, reishi, cordyceps, astragalus, and schisandra are traditional herbs used to support the body's stress response and energy. The evidence for most is incomplete or mixed—ashwagandha, for instance, is possibly effective for anxiety and insomnia, but many others lack strong proof of benefit in humans.

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.

Cacao Alchemy label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Cacao Alchemy’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Copper

Interacts with 31 drugs

Copper is an essential trace mineral your body needs in small amounts for making red blood cells, supporting nerves and bones, and helping enzymes work. Most people get enough copper from fo...

Read the full Copper monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Black Psyllium

Interacts with 2,025 drugs

Black psyllium is a soluble-fiber supplement made from the seeds of a Plantago plant, used mostly to ease constipation and support digestive health. It is best known and most studied for rel...

Read the full Black Psyllium monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Iron

Interacts with 80 drugs

Iron is an essential mineral your body needs to make hemoglobin and carry oxygen in the blood. Supplements are mainly useful for treating or preventing iron deficiency and iron-deficiency an...

Read the full Iron monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Manganese

Interacts with 83 drugs

Manganese is an essential trace mineral your body needs in small amounts for bone formation, metabolism, and antioxidant defense, and most people get enough from a normal diet. Supplements m...

Read the full Manganese monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Carob

Interacts with 2,022 drugs

Carob is a Mediterranean tree whose pods are widely used as a caffeine-free, naturally sweet cocoa alternative and as a thickener (carob gum). It is mostly eaten as a food and is generally w...

Read the full Carob monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Capsicum

Interacts with 239 drugs

Capsicum (chili pepper) contains capsaicin, which is best known and best studied as a topical treatment for certain types of pain. Topical capsaicin products are supported by reasonable evid...

Read the full Capsicum monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Ceylon Cinnamon

Interacts with 258 drugs

Ceylon cinnamon is the so-called 'true' cinnamon, valued as a spice and used in traditional medicine for blood sugar, cholesterol, and digestion. Evidence for most health benefits is limited...

Read the full Ceylon Cinnamon monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Prickly Pear Cactus

Interacts with 86 drugs

Prickly pear cactus is a desert plant whose pads and fruit are eaten as food and taken as a supplement, mainly for blood sugar, cholesterol, and hangover symptoms. Some small studies suggest...

Read the full Prickly Pear Cactus monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Jiaogulan

Interacts with 327 drugs

Jiaogulan is a climbing vine used in traditional Chinese medicine as an adaptogen and for heart, blood sugar, and cholesterol support. Early human and animal studies are promising for some u...

Read the full Jiaogulan monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Ashwagandha

Interacts with 1,372 drugs

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb most often taken to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep, and some small studies suggest it may help, though the evidence is still limited. It is generally w...

Read the full Ashwagandha monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Chaga

Interacts with 327 drugs

Chaga is a fungus that grows mostly on birch trees and is used as a tea or supplement, mainly for immune and antioxidant support. Human evidence for its benefits is very limited, and it may...

Read the full Chaga monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Reishi Mushroom

Interacts with 375 drugs

Reishi is a traditional Asian mushroom widely used to support the immune system and overall wellness. Human evidence for most of its claimed benefits is limited or low-quality, so it should...

Read the full Reishi Mushroom monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Cordyceps

Interacts with 249 drugs

Cordyceps is a fungus used in traditional Chinese medicine for energy, exercise performance, and lung and immune support. Human research is limited and mostly low quality, so its benefits ar...

Read the full Cordyceps monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Astragalus

Interacts with 208 drugs

Astragalus is a root used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, mainly to support the immune system and help the body cope with stress. While early studies are interesting, strong h...

Read the full Astragalus monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Schisandra

Interacts with 803 drugs

Schisandra is a traditional Chinese medicine berry used as an adaptogen for stress, fatigue, and liver support. Human evidence is limited and most claims are not well proven, but it appears...

Read the full Schisandra monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Cacao Alchemy's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 370 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.

Copper 11 references
  1. Murry JJ, Healy MD. Drug-mineral interactions: a new responsibility for the hospital dietician. J Am Diet Assoc 1991;91:66-73.
  2. Campbell IA, Elmes PC. Ethambutol and the eye: zinc and copper (letter). Lancet 1975;2:711. DOI
  3. Segal S, Kaminski S. Drug-nutrient interactions. American Druggist 1996 Jul;42-8.
  4. Kozak SF, Inderlied CB, Hsu HY, et al. The role of copper on ethambutol's antimicrobial action and implications for ethambutol-induced optic neuropathy. Diag Microbiol Infect Dis 1998;30:83-7. PubMed
  5. 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.
  6. Cantilena LR, Klaassen CD. The effect of chelating agents on the excretion of endogenous metals. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1982;63:344-50.
  7. Babic Z, Tariba B, Kovacic J, Pizent A, Varnai VM, Macan J. Relevance of serum copper elevation induced by oral contraceptives: a meta-analysis. Contraception. 2013 Jun;87(6):790-800. PubMed
  8. Qui Q, Zhang F, Zhu W, Wu J, Liang M. Copper in diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis and systematic review of plasma and serum studies. Biol Trace Elem Res 2017;177(1):53-63.
  9. Walker-Smith PK, Keith DJ, Kennedy CT, Sansom JE. Allergic contact dermatitis caused by copper. Contact Dermatitis 2016;75(3):186-7. PubMed
  10. Gallentine A. Third-degree burn on the neuropathic lower extremity in a patient with diabetes while wearing a copper-containing compression sock: a case report. Wound Manag Prev 2021;67(12):26-29. DOI
  11. Chung KJ, Chin YM, Wong MS, Sanmugam A, Singaravel S, Nah SA. Effectiveness of table salt versus copper sulphate in treating umbilical granuloma: A pilot randomized controlled trial. J Pediatr Surg 2022;57(2):261-265. PubMed

See these in context on the Copper monograph →

Black Psyllium 18 references
  1. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  2. Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.
  3. Covington TR, et al. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. 11th ed. Washington, DC: American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.
  4. Etman M. Effect of a bulk forming laxative on the bioavailablility of carbamazepine in man. Drug Dev Ind Pharm 1995;21:1901-6.
  5. Perlman BB. Interaction between lithium salts and ispaghula husk. Lancet 1990;335:416.
  6. Vaswani SK, Hamilton RG, Valentine MD, Adkinson NF. Psyllium laxative-induced anaphylaxis, asthma, and rhinitis. Allergy 1996;51:266-8. PubMed
  7. Lantner RR, Espiritu BR, Zumerchik P, Tobin MC. Anaphylaxis following ingestion of a psyllium-containing cereal. JAMA 1990;264:2534-6. DOI
  8. Kaplan MJ. Anaphylactic reaction to "Heartwise." N Engl J Med 1990;323:1072-3. DOI
  9. Nordstrom M, Melander A, Robertsson E, Steen B. Influence of wheat bran and of a bulk-forming ispaghula cathartic on the bioavailability of digoxin in geriatric in-patients. Drug Nutr Interact 1987;5:67-9..
  10. Robinson DS, Benjamin DM, McCormack JJ. Interaction of warfarin and nonsystemic gastrointestinal drugs. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1971;12:491-5. PubMed
  11. Garcia JJ, Fernandez N, Diez MJ, et al. Influence of two dietary fibers in the oral bioavailability and other pharmacokinetic parameters of ethinyloestradiol. Contraception 2000;62:253-7. PubMed
  12. Fernandez N, Lopez C, Díez R, et al. Drug interactions with the dietary fiber Plantago ovata husk. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2012;8(11):1377-86.
  13. Semen plantaginis in: WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, volume 1. World Health Organization, Geneva, 1999. Available at http://apps.who.int/medicinedocs/en/d/Js2200e/. Accessed November 26, 1026.
  14. Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21 (21CFR 101.17). Food labeling warning, notice, and safe handling statements. Available at www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=20f647d3b74161501f46564b915b4048&mc=true&node=se21.2.101_117&rgn=div8. Accessed December 3, 2
  15. Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21 (21CFR 201.319). Specific labeling requirements - water-soluble gums, hydrophilic gums, and hydrophilic mucilloids. Available at www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?fr=201.319. Accessed Dece
  16. Diez R, Garcia JJ, Diez MJ, Sierra M, Sahagun AM, Fernandez N. Influence of Plantago ovata husk (dietary fiber) on the bioavailability and other pharmacokinetic parameters of metformin in diabetic rabbits. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2017 Jun 7;17(1):298. PubMed
  17. Chiu AC, Sherman SI. Effects of pharmacological fiber supplements on levothyroxine absorption. Thyroid. 1998;8(8):667-71. PubMed
  18. Merrick C, Madden CA, Capurso NA. A Case of Blunted Orally Disintegrating Olanzapine Effect Due to Coadministered Psyllium. J Clin Psychiatry 2021;82(2):20cr13633. PubMed

See these in context on the Black Psyllium monograph →

Iron 72 references
  1. McEvoy GK, ed. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
  2. Bruner AB, Joffe A, Duggan AK, et al. Randomized study of cognitive effects of iron supplementation in non- anaemic iron-deficient adolescent girls. Lancet 1996;348:992-6.
  3. Ullen H, Augustsson K, Gustavsson C, Steineck G. Supplementary iron intake and risk of cancer: reversed causality? Cancer Lett 1997;114:215-6.
  4. Reunanen A, Takkunen H, Knekt P, et al. Body iron stores, dietary iron intake and coronary heart disease mortality. J Intern Med 1995;238:223-30. PubMed
  5. Lund EK, Wharf SG, Fairweather-Tait SJ, Johnson IT. Oral ferrous sulfate supplements increase the free radical-generating capacity of feces from healthy volunteers. Am J Clin Nutr 1999;69:250-5.
  6. Rehman A, Collis CS, Yang M, et al. The effects of iron and vitamin C co-supplementation on oxidative damage to DNA in healthy volunteers. Biochem Biophys Res Comm 1998;246:293-8. PubMed
  7. Klipstein-Grobusch K, Grobbee DE, den Breeijen JH, et al. Dietary iron and risk of myocardial infarction in the Rotterdam Study. Am J Epidemiol 1999;149:421-8. PubMed
  8. Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, WA: Applied Therapeutics Inc., 1997 and updates.
  9. Tatro DS, ed. Drug Interactions Facts. Facts and Comparisons Inc., St. Louis, MO. 1999.
  10. 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.
  11. Campbell N, Paddock V, Sundaram R. Alteration of methyldopa absorption, metabolism, and blood pressure control by ferrous sulfate and ferrous gluconate. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1988;43:381-6..
  12. Schumann K, Borch-Iohnsen B, Hentze MW, Marx JJ. Tolerable upper intakes for dietary iron set by the US Food and Nutrition Board (commentary). Am J Clin Nutr 2002;76:499-500. PubMed
  13. Tuomainen TP, Punnonen K, Nyyssonen K, Salonen JT. Association between body iron stores and the risk of acute myocardial infarction in men. Circulation 1998;97:1461-6.. PubMed
  14. Salonen JT, Nyyssonen K, Korpela H, et al. High stored iron levels are associated with excess risk of myocardial infarction in Eastern Finnish men. Circulation 1992;86:803-11.. PubMed
  15. Campbell NRC, Hasinoff B. Ferrous sulfate reduces levodopa bioavailability: Chelation as a possible mechanism. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1989;45:220-5.. PubMed
  16. Campbell NRC, Hasinoff BB, Stalts H, et al. Ferrous sulfate reduces thyroxine efficacy in patients with hypothyroidism. Ann Int Med 1992;117:1010-3.. PubMed
  17. Kiechl S, Willeit J, Egger G, et al. Body iron stores and the risk of carotid atherosclerosis: prospective results from the Bruneck study. Circulation 1997;96:3300-07. PubMed
  18. Comparison of oral iron supplements. Pharmacist's Letter / Prescriber's Letter 2008;24(8):240811.
  19. Tran T., Wax J. R., Philput C., Steinfeld J. D., Ingardia C. J. Intentional iron overdose in pregnancy--management and outcome. J Emerg Med 2000;18(2):225-228. PubMed
  20. Toblli J. E., Brignoli, R. Iron(III)-hydroxide polymaltose complex in iron deficiency anemia / review and meta-analysis. Arzneimittelforschung 2007;57(6A):431-438. PubMed
  21. Köpcke W., Sauerland M. C. Meta-analysis of efficacy and tolerability data on iron proteinsuccinylate in patients with iron deficiency anemia of different severity. Arzneimittelforschung 1995;45(11):1211-1216.
  22. Campbell N. R., Campbell R. R., Hasinoff B. B. Ferrous sulfate reduces methyldopa absorption: methyldopa: iron complex formation as a likely mechanism. Clin Invest Med 1990;13(6):329-332.
  23. Morii M., Ueno K., Ogawa A., Kato R., Yoshimura H., Wada K., Hashimoto H., Takada M., Tanaka K., Nakatani T., Shibakawa M. Impairment of mycophenolate mofetil absorption by iron ion. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2000;68(6):613-616. PubMed
  24. Gelone D. K., Park J. M., Lake K. D. Lack of an effect of oral iron administration on mycophenolic acid pharmacokinetics in stable renal transplant recipients. Pharmacotherapy 2007;27(9):1272-1278. PubMed
  25. Ducray P. S., Banken L., Gerber M., Boutouyrie B., Zandt H. Absence of an interaction between iron and mycophenolate mofetil absorption. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2006;62(4):492-495. PubMed
  26. Lorenz M., Wolzt M., Weigel G., Puttinger H., Hörl W. H., Födinger M., Speiser W., Sunder-Plassmann G. Ferrous sulfate does not affect mycophenolic acid pharmacokinetics in kidney transplant patients. Am J Kidney Dis 2004;43(6):1098-1103. PubMed
  27. Osman M. A., Patel R. B., Schuna A., Sundstrom W. R., Welling P. G. Reduction in oral penicillamine absorption by food, antacid, and ferrous sulfate. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1983;33(4):465-470. PubMed
  28. Michael, B., Coyne, D. W., Fishbane, S., Folkert, V., Lynn, R., Nissenson, A. R., Agarwal, R., Eschbach, J. W., Fadem, S. Z., Trout, J. R., Strobos, J., and Warnock, D. G. Sodium ferric gluconate complex in hemodialysis patients: adverse reactions compar
  29. Zhang, X., Ouyang, J., Wieczorek, R., and DeSoto, F. Iron medication-induced gastric mucosal injury. Pathol.Res Pract 2009;205(8):579-581. PubMed
  30. Barbieri, P. G. [To-day exposure to occupational carcinogens and their effects. The experience of the rubber industry, iron metallurgy, asphalt work and aviculture]. Epidemiol.Prev 2009;33(4-5 Suppl 2):94-105.
  31. Macedo, A. and Cardoso, S. [Routine iron supplementation in pregnancy]. Acta Med Port. 2010;23(5):785-792.
  32. Bastide, N. M., Pierre, F. H., and Corpet, D. E. Heme iron from meat and risk of colorectal cancer: a meta-analysis and a review of the mechanisms involved. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2011;4(2):177-184. PubMed
  33. Stevens, R. G. Iron and the risk of cancer. Med Oncol Tumor Pharmacother. 1990;7(2-3):177-181. PubMed
  34. van den, Hombergh J., Dalderop, E., and Smit, Y. Does iron therapy benefit children with severe malaria-associated anaemia? A clinical trial with 12 weeks supplementation of oral iron in young children from the Turiani Division, Tanzania. J.Trop.Pediatr. PubMed
  35. Liabeuf S, Gras V, Moragny J, et al. Ulceration of the oral mucosa following direct contact with ferrous sulfate in elderly patients: a case report and a review of the French National Pharmacovigilance Database. Clin Interv Aging. 2014 Apr 25;9:737-40. PubMed
  36. Qiao L, Feng Y. Intakes of heme iron and zinc and colorectal cancer incidence: a meta-analysis of prospective studies. Cancer Causes Control. 2013 Jun;24(6):1175-83. PubMed
  37. Jalloh MA, Gregory PJ, Hein D, et al. Dietary supplement interactions with antiretrovirals: a systematic review. Int J STD AIDS. 2017 Jan;28(1):4-15. PubMed
  38. Guidelines for the Use of Antiretroviral Agents in HIV-1-Infected Adults and Adolescents: Drug Interactions between Integrase Inhibitors and Other Drugs. AIDSinfo. July 14, 2016. Available at: https://aidsinfo.nih.gov/guidelines/html/1/adult-and-adolescen
  39. Song I, Borland J, Arya N, Wynne B, Piscitelli S. Pharmacokinetics of dolutegravir when administered with mineral supplements in healthy adult subjects. J Clin Pharmacol. 2015;55(5):490-6. PubMed
  40. Esan MO, Boele van Hensbroek M, Nkhoma E, et al. Iron supplementation in HIV infected Malawian children with anemia: a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. Clin Inf Dis 2013;57(11):1626-34.doi:10.1093/cid/cit528. PubMed
  41. Zlotkin S, Newton S, Aimone AM, et al. Effect of iron fortification on malaria incidence in infants and young children in Ghana: a randomized trial. JAMA 2013;310(9):938-47. PubMed
  42. Khambalia AZ, Aimone A, Nagubandi P, et al. High maternal iron status, dietary iron intake and iron supplement use in pregnancy and risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: a prospective study and systematic review. Diabet Med. 2016;33(9):1211-21. PubMed
  43. Kinnunen TI, Luoto R, Helin A, Hemminki E. Supplemental iron intake and the risk of glucose intolerance in pregnancy: re-analysis of a randomised controlled trial in Finland. Matern Child Nutr. 2016;12(1):74-84.
  44. Low MS, Speedy J, Styles CE, De-Regil LM, Pasricha SR. Daily iron supplementation for improving anaemia, iron status and health in menstruating women. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;4:CD009747. PubMed
  45. Melit LE, Marginean CO, Mocanu S, Marginean MO. A rare case of iron-pill induced gastritis in a female teenager: A case report and a review of the literature. Medicine (Baltimore). 2017;96(30):e7550. PubMed
  46. Neuberger A, Okebe J, Yahav D, Paul M. Oral iron supplements for children in malaria-endemic areas. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;2:CD006589. PubMed
  47. Peña-Rosas JP, De-Regil LM, Gomez Malave H, Flores-Urrutia MC, Dowswell T. Intermittent oral iron supplementation during pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015;(10):CD009997. PubMed
  48. Brabin B, Gies S, Roberts SA, et al. Excess risk of preterm birth with periconceptional iron supplementation in a malaria endemic area: analysis of secondary data on birth outcomes in a double blind randomized controlled safety trial in Burkina Faso. Mala PubMed
  49. Kaundal R, Bhatia P, Jain A, et al. Randomized controlled trial of twice-daily versus alternate-day oral iron therapy in the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia. Ann Hematol 2020;99(1):57-63. PubMed
  50. Li N, Zhao G, Wu W, et al. The efficacy and safety of vitamin C for iron supplementation in adult patients with iron deficiency anemia: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2020;3(11):e2023644.<br> PubMed
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  53. Milman NT. Iron supplementation in pregnant Danish women revisited: Effects on prepartum and postpartum iron deficiency, anemia, serum erythropoietin; including iron status, erythropoietin and anthropometrics in newborns. A randomized, placebo-controlled
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  55. Shah AA, Donovan K, Seeley C, et al. Risk of infection associated with administration of intravenous iron: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Netw Open 2021;4(11):e2133935. PubMed
  56. Gamad N, Saha PK, Sharma P, Suri V, Chakrabarti A, Saha L. A randomized controlled trial comparing the efficacy, tolerability, and cost of oral iron preparations in iron-deficiency anemia in pregnancy. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2021;47(11):3828-3841. PubMed
  57. El-Hawy MA, Abd Al-Salam SA, Bahbah WA. Comparing oral iron bisglycinate chelate, lactoferrin, lactoferrin with iron and iron polymaltose complex in the treatment of children with iron deficiency anemia. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2021;46:367-371. PubMed
  58. Adams A, Scheckel B, Habsaoui A, et al. Intravenous iron versus oral iron versus no iron with or without erythropoiesis- stimulating agents (ESA) for cancer patients with anaemia: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2 PubMed
  59. Kancherla K, Constantin H, Kanawati A, Graham E. Iron-induced Hypophosphatemic Osteomalacia-An Atypical Case of Bilateral Femoral Stress Fractures. J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev 2023;7(5):e22. PubMed
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  62. Jara Vidal M, López García MC, Quílez Toboso RP. Kounis syndrome after intravenous iron administration. Med Clin (Barc) 2023. DOI
  63. Jara Vidal M, Ruiz de Assín Valverde A, Aznar Rodríguez S. Severe hypophospathemia secondary to intravenous iron. Med Clin (Barc) 2023. DOI
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  65. Seng NW, Barco JB, Wong MH, et al. Hypophosphatemia related to intravenous iron therapy with ferric carboxymaltose: A case series. Transfus Med 2023. PubMed
  66. Fernandez-Flores A, Fernandez-Parrado M, Alzoghby-Abi Chaker J, Angulo AG. Axillary cutaneous hemosiderosis in a patient with hyperhidrosis, after intravenous iron infusion. Am J Dermatopathol 2023;45(7):463-465. PubMed
  67. Ye S, Grill V, Luo J, Nguyen HH. Concurrent Denosumab and Parenteral Iron Therapy Precipitating Severe Hypocalcemia and Hypophosphatemia. JCEM Case Rep 2024;2(2):luae005. PubMed
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See these in context on the Iron monograph →

Manganese 21 references
  1. Hansten PD, Horn JR. Hansten and Horn's Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, CAN:Appl Therapeut, 1999.
  2. Barrington WW, Angle CR, Willcockson NK, et al. Autonomic function in manganese alloy workers. Environ Res 1998;78:50-8. PubMed
  3. Hauser RA, Zesiewicz TA, Martinez C, et al. Blood manganese correlates with brain magnetic resonance imaging changes in patients with liver disease. Can J Neurol Sci 1996;23:95-8. PubMed
  4. 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.
  5. Lee JW. Manganese intoxication. Arch Neurol 2000;57:597-9.. PubMed
  6. Powers KM, Smith-Weller T, Franklin GM, et al. Parkinson's disease risks associated with dietary iron, manganese, and other nutrient intakes. Neurology 2003;60:1761-6.. PubMed
  7. McMillan, D. E. A brief history of the neurobehavioral toxicity of manganese: some unanswered questions. Neurotoxicology 1999;20(2-3):499-507.
  8. Gerber, G. B., Leonard, A., and Hantson, P. Carcinogenicity, mutagenicity and teratogenicity of manganese compounds. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol. 2002;42(1):25-34. PubMed
  9. Jiang, Y. and Zheng, W. Cardiovascular toxicities upon manganese exposure. Cardiovasc.Toxicol 2005;5(4):345-354. PubMed
  10. Mehta, R. and Reilly, J. J. Manganese levels in a jaundiced long-term total parenteral nutrition patient: potentiation of haloperidol toxicity? Case report and literature review. JPEN J Parenter.Enteral Nutr 1990;14(4):428-430. PubMed
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Carob 9 references
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Capsicum 89 references
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Ceylon Cinnamon 22 references
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Prickly Pear Cactus 9 references
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Jiaogulan 8 references
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Ashwagandha 32 references
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Chaga 9 references
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Reishi Mushroom 17 references
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Cordyceps 14 references
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Astragalus 13 references
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Schisandra 26 references
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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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