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Dietary supplement

Cardio Essentials Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by XYMOGEN

Cardio Essentials label
See full label image
Other (e.g. Tea Bag) Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 16, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Cardio Essentials 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

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Cardio Essentials is a dietary supplement by XYMOGEN with 4 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for high cholesterol, vitamin b3 deficiency (pellagra), heart health support.Based on those ingredients, 854 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Niacin, Red Yeast Rice, Fish Oil concentrate. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

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Check Your Meds Against Cardio Essentials by XYMOGEN

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Cardio Essentials by XYMOGEN — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Cardio Essentials by XYMOGEN

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

Generated from HelloPharmacist’s pharmacist-curated databases and editorial rules · Last generated Jul 12, 2026

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 5 of its 5 active ingredients.
  • “Total Omega-3 Fatty Acids” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (650 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Fish Oil concentrate” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (1 Gram(s)) without saying how much of each component you get.

Cardio Essentials contains five active ingredients. Three are omega-3 fatty acids — eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid (which come from fish oil concentrate) — along with a total omega-3 fatty acids blend.

The other two actives are niacin (a B vitamin) and coenzyme Q10 (a compound your cells use for energy production). The product also contains inactive ingredients — fillers, binders, and other materials that give the supplement its form.

Does it work?

Moderate 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
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: comprehensive cardiovascular support.
  • We looked for evidence on: Angina, Angioplasty, Anthracycline cardiotoxicity, Atherosclerosis, Atrial fibrillation, Cardiovascular disease (CVD) — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Coenzyme Q10 is rated "Possibly Effective" for Congestive heart failure (CHF) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Niacin is rated "Ineffective" for Cardiovascular disease (CVD).
  • Also on file: Niacin is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Atherosclerosis.

The evidence for this product's ingredients varies. Niacin is likely effective for preventing pellagra (a niacin-deficiency disease) and possibly effective for improving cholesterol and triglyceride levels in people with HIV/AIDS-related dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome.

Coenzyme Q10 is likely effective for coenzyme Q10 deficiency and possibly effective for fibromyalgia, migraine headache, congestive heart failure, and diabetic nerve damage. Red yeast rice is possibly effective for HIV/AIDS-related dyslipidemia and heart attack prevention.

We don't hold effectiveness data for the omega-3 fatty acids in this product.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Niacin Fish Oil Coenzyme Q10 Red Yeast Rice

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 3 of the 3 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 3 of 3.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 3 of 3.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Niacin in dietary amounts is safe, but supplemental doses can cause flushing, stomach upset, and liver problems; high-dose niacin should be avoided in pregnancy unless prescribed. Coenzyme Q10 is generally well tolerated, though gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and heartburn occur in less than 1% of users; safety in pregnancy is not well studied, and it should be avoided while breastfeeding unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Red yeast rice behaves like a statin drug and carries similar risks, including rare cases of liver damage and muscle breakdown; it is not safe in pregnancy. We don't hold safety data on the omega-3 fatty acids here.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Niacin Fish Oil Coenzyme Q10 Red Yeast Rice

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?
  • 3 of the 3 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Niacin, Red Yeast Rice, Coenzyme Q10.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 847 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.

Before taking Cardio Essentials, check with your pharmacist if you take blood pressure-lowering drugs (niacin and coenzyme Q10 may lower blood pressure further), blood thinners like warfarin (coenzyme Q10 and niacin may reduce effectiveness), diabetes medications (niacin can raise blood sugar), cholesterol-lowering statins (niacin and red yeast rice may increase muscle damage risk), gout drugs like allopurinol or probenecid (niacin may reduce effectiveness), bile acid sequestrants for cholesterol, chemotherapy drugs, cyclosporine, gemfibrozil, or any hepatotoxic drugs. No interactions are documented for the omega-3 ingredients we could check.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

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.

Cardio Essentials may help support heart health through its omega-3s, niacin, and coenzyme Q10, but it requires careful review of your current medications — especially blood pressure drugs, blood thinners, diabetes medications, statins, and gout medicines. If you're on any prescription drugs or have liver problems, talk to your pharmacist or doctor before starting.

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

Assessment coverage: 3 of 5 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Nov 20, 2017.

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 Cardio Essentials, straight from the product label.

Brand XYMOGEN
Barcode (UPC) 871149002732
Net contents 60 Packet(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Nov 20, 2017
DSLD ID 80660
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Other (e.g. Tea Bag)
Dietary claims / uses Nutrient, All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Gluten Free, Dairy 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 Cardio Essentials by XYMOGEN, 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:
1 Softgel(s), 1 Tablet(s), 1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Softgel(s), 1 Tablet(s), 1 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
60
UPC/BARCODE
871149002732
IngredientAmount% DV
Calories10 Calorie(s)--
Calories from Fat10 Calorie(s)--
Eicosapentaenoic Acid360 mg--
Niacin500 mg2500%
Docosahexaenoic Acid240 mg--
Total Fat1 Gram(s)2%
Total Omega-3 Fatty Acids650 mg--
Fish Oil concentrate1 Gram(s)--
Coenzyme Q1050 mg--
Red Yeast Rice900 mg--

Other ingredients: Other Ingredients for OmegaPure 600 EC:, Other Ingredients for NiaVasc, Other Ingredients for Red Yeast Rice, Other Ingredients for CoQmax ME

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.
General Statements

Professional use only

The formula offers unparalleled absorption and bioavailability. CoQmax ME has been shown in clinical trials to be over eight times more absorbable than powdered CoQ10 and more than twice as bioavailable as oil-based or so-called “nano”-dispersed formulas on the market. CoQmax ME’s proprietary multi-lipid carrier is a formulation that is unmatched for optimal utilization in the support of cardiovascular and energy-based health needs.

The formula supports the maintenance of healthy lipid levels equally as well as the instant-release forms of niacin do, but with dramatically less flushing. Nearly every panel of experts, including the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) panel, considers niacin an important nutrient for support of cardiovascular health.

The softgels are covered with a GRAS-certified enteric coating so that they are easy to swallow and the EPA/DHA content is optimally absorbed. EPA and DHA from fish oil promote wellness by supporting cardiovascular health, cytokine balance, joint health, and brain and nervous system function.

Red Yeast Rice is developed by fermenting Monascus purpureus (red yeast) on commercially grown rice. It has been found to naturally support healthy blood lipid levels already in the normal range.

Daily-dose cardiovascular support packets

ePV Exclusive professional formulas

Scan to learn more! This package is completely recyclable

Brand IP Statement(s)

Not for resale on third-party websites, including, but not limited to, Amazon and eBay.

Cardio Essentials is a combination of four targeted nutritional formulas packaged together to provide convenience and comprehensive cardiovascular support.

NiaVasc is XYMOGEN's sustained-release niacin that uses proprietary wax-coated technology.

OmegaPure 600 EC is International Fish Oil Standards (IFOS) five-star certified, which assures the highest level of purity, stability, and potency in fish oils.

Each Packet Contains One: CoQmax ME softgel, NiaVasc tablet, OmegaPure 600 EC softgel, Red Yeast Rice capsule.

Kaneka Q10 is a registered trademark of Kaneka Corp.

2016 XYMOGEN

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: Take contents of one packet daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

Precautions

Consult your healthcare practitioner prior to use, especially if you have liver disease, are an organ transplant recipient, or are taking prescription drugs.

Red yeast rice may inhibit the body's production of CoQ10. Do not use if tamper seal is damaged.

Cautions: Do not take if you are pregnant or lactating.

Storage: Keep closed in a cool, dry place out of reach of children.

Contains: Fish (Alaska pollock, Pacific whiting [sources of fish oil], tilapia [source of fish gelatin]) from certified sustainable sources.

Formula

CoQmax ME is XYMOGEN’s proprietary, micro-emulsified, 50 mg CoQ10 for convenient dosing.

Each fish-gelatin–based softgel provides 600 mg of EPA and DHA.

Contains: Fish (Alaska pollock, Pacific whiting [sources of fish oil], tilapia [source of fish gelatin]) from certified sustainable sources.

Formulation

This formula is citrinin-free.

Does Not Contain: Wheat, gluten, corn, soy protein, dairy products, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, ingredients derived from genetically modified organisms (GMOs), artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, or artificial preservatives.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

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

Storage

Storage: Keep closed in a cool, dry place out of reach of children.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Seals/Symbols

Vegetarian caps

Third-Party Verified GMP Compliant

General

ZLB-CARDESS-08 REV. 071316

Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.

See for yourself

Cardio Essentials by XYMOGEN label

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

Cardio Essentials label

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)
What’s inside

The Ingredients in Cardio Essentials by XYMOGEN

These are the 4 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Softgel(s) Dosage formOther (e.g. Tea Bag) 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.

Niacin

Interacts with
727 drugs
500 mg per serving

Niacin (vitamin B3) is an essential nutrient your body needs for energy and metabolism, and deficiency is uncommon in most developed countries. Prescr...

Niacin monograph & interactions

Fish Oil concentrate

Interacts with
327 drugs
1 Gram(s) per serving

Fish oil provides omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) that are best known for lowering high triglyceride levels. The evidence for other heart and health...

Fish Oil concentrate monograph & interactions
  • › Total Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Coenzyme Q10

Interacts with
198 drugs
50 mg per serving Form: Ubiquinone

CoQ10 is a vitamin-like substance your body makes naturally that helps cells produce energy and acts as an antioxidant. It is generally well tolerated...

Coenzyme Q10 monograph & interactions

Red Yeast Rice

Interacts with
477 drugs
900 mg per serving

Red yeast rice contains monacolin K, which is chemically identical to the prescription statin lovastatin, and it can lower LDL ('bad') cholesterol. Be...

Red Yeast Rice monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Other Ingredients for OmegaPure 600 EC:, Other Ingredients for NiaVasc, Other Ingredients for Red Yeast Rice, Other Ingredients for CoQmax ME. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Cardio Essentials by XYMOGEN Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Cardio Essentials?

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
854Drugs
854 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Niacin 727
Red Yeast Rice 477
Fish Oil concentrate 327
Coenzyme Q10 198

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Cardio Essentials interact with 854 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

4 of the 4 ingredients in Cardio Essentials interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Niacin Red Yeast Rice Fish Oil concentrate Coenzyme Q10

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Cardio Essentials 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.

Niacin15 drug types · 727 drugs

Alcohol (Ethanol)

Concomitant use of alcohol and niacin might increase the risk of flushing and hepatotoxicity.
Alcohol can exacerbate the flushing and pruritus associated with niacin. Large doses of niacin might also exacerbate liver dysfunction associated with chronic alcohol use. A case report describes delirium and lactic acidosis in a patient taking niacin 3 grams daily who ingested 1 liter of wine. Advise patients to avoid large amounts of alcohol while taking niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Allopurinol (Zyloprim)

Theoretically, niacin might antagonize the therapeutic effects of uricosurics such as allopurinol.
Large doses of niacin can reduce urinary excretion of uric acid, potentially resulting in hyperuricemia. Doses of uricosurics such as allopurinol might need to be increased to maintain control of gout in patients who start taking niacin. People who have frequent attacks of gout despite uricosuric therapy should avoid niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, niacin may have additive effects when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Several cases of clotting factor synthesis deficiency and coagulopathy have been reported in patients taking sustained-release niacin. Also, thrombocytopenia has been reported in patients treated with niacin or niacin plus lovastatin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Niacin can increase blood glucose levels and may diminish the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Niacin impairs glucose tolerance in a dose-dependent manner, probably by causing or aggravating insulin resistance and increasing hepatic production of glucose. In diabetes patients, niacin 4.5 grams daily for 5 weeks can increase plasma glucose by an average of 16% and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) by 21%. However, lower doses of 1.5 grams daily or less appear to have minimal effects on blood glucose. In some patients, glucose levels increase when niacin is started, but then return to baseline when a stable dose is reached. Up to 35% of patients with diabetes may need adjustments in hypoglycemic therapy when niacin is added.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, niacin may increase the risk of hypotension when used with antihypertensive drugs.
The vasodilating effects of niacin can cause hypotension. Furthermore, some clinical evidence suggests that a one-hour infusion of niacin can reduce systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure in hypertensive patients. This effect is not observed in normotensive patients.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Bile Acid Sequestrants

Bile acid sequestrants can bind niacin and decrease absorption. Separate administration by 4-6 hours to avoid an interaction.
In vitro studies show that colestipol (Colestid) binds about 98% of available niacin and cholestyramine (Questran) binds 10% to 30%.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Gemfibrozil (Lopid)

Theoretically, concomitant use of niacin and gemfibrozil might increase the risk of myopathy in some patients.
A case of myopathy from concomitant use of niacin and gemfibrozil has been reported. Niacin alone has also been associated with cases of myopathy. Using gemfibrozil with niacin might further increase the risk of developing myopathy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of niacin and hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of hepatotoxicity.
Niacin has been associated with cases of liver toxicity, especially when used in pharmacologic doses. Sustained-release niacin preparations appear to be associated with a higher risk of hepatotoxicity than immediate-release niacin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hmg-Coa Reductase Inhibitors ("Statins")

Theoretically, concomitant use of niacin and statins might increase the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis in some patients.
Some case reports have raised concerns that niacin might increase the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis when combined with statins. However, a significantly increased risk of myopathy has not been demonstrated in clinical trials, including those using an FDA-approved combination of lovastatin and niacin (Advicor).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Probenecid (Benemid)

Theoretically, niacin might antagonize the therapeutic effects of uricosurics such as probenecid.
Large doses of niacin reduce urinary excretion of uric acid, potentially causing hyperuricemia. Doses of uricosurics such as probenecid might need to be increased to maintain control of gout in patients who start taking niacin. People who have frequent attacks of gout despite uricosuric therapy should avoid niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Sulfinpyrazone (Anturane)

Theoretically, niacin might antagonize the therapeutic effects of uricosurics such as sulfinpyrazone.
Large doses of niacin reduce urinary excretion of uric acid, potentially causing hyperuricemia. Doses of uricosurics such as sulfinpyrazone might need to be increased to maintain control of gout in patients who start taking niacin. People who have frequent attacks of gout despite uricosuric therapy should avoid niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, niacin might antagonize the therapeutic effects of thyroid hormones.
Clinical research and case reports suggests that taking niacin can reduce serum levels of thyroxine-binding globulin by up to 25% and moderately reduce levels of thyroxine (T4). Patients taking thyroid hormone for hypothyroidism might need dose adjustments when using niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Transdermal Nicotine (Nicoderm)

Theoretically, concomitant use of niacin and transdermal nicotine might increase the risk of flushing and dizziness.
Niacin and nicotine can both cause flushing and dizziness.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

There is limited evidence that niacin may increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.
In a case report, a patient on warfarin developed an elevated international normalized ratio (INR) of 3.9 after taking niacin for two weeks. The patient's INR was previously stable, ranging between 2 and 3 in recent months, and no other medication changes were identified. The elevated INR returned to therapeutic range within 4 days following the discontinuation of niacin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Aspirin

Large doses of aspirin might alter the clearance of niacin.
Aspirin is often used with niacin to reduce niacin-induced flushing. Doses of 80-975 mg aspirin have been used, but 325 mg appears to be optimal. Aspirin also seems to reduce the clearance of niacin by competing for glycine conjugation. Taking aspirin 1 gram seems to reduce niacin clearance by 45%. This is probably a dose-related effect and not clinically significant with the more common aspirin dose of 325 mg.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Niacin full monograph & interactions

Red Yeast Rice6 drug types · 477 drugs

Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Theoretically, taking red yeast rice in combination with cyclosporine might increase the risk of myopathy.
Red yeast rice contains varying levels of the statin drug lovastatin. Cyclosporine has been reported to increase plasma levels of lovastatin by 5- to 20-fold, resulting in reports of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Inhibitors

Theoretically, drugs that inhibit the CYP3A4 enzymes might increase levels of lovastatin from red yeast rice.
Red yeast rice contains varying levels of the statin drug lovastatin, which is metabolized by CYP3A4. Combining red yeast rice with CYP3A4 inhibitors might increase serum levels of lovastatin from red yeast rice.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Gemfibrozil (Lopid)

Theoretically, taking red yeast rice in combination with gemfibrozil might increase the risk of rhabdomyolysis.
Red yeast rice contains varying levels of the statin drug lovastatin. Gemfibrozil has been reported to increase the risk of rhabdomyolysis when used in combination with lovastatin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of liver damage.
Red yeast rice contains varying levels of the drug lovastatin. Lovastatin can cause liver damage in some people. Some clinical research suggests that supplements containing red yeast rice might increase liver enzyme levels in some, but not all, participants. Cases of acute hepatitis have been associated with red yeast rice. Combining it with hepatotoxic drugs might further increase this risk.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hmg-Coa Reductase Inhibitors ("Statins")

Theoretically, taking red yeast rice with other statins might increase the risk of potential adverse effects.
Red yeast rice contains varying levels of the statin drug lovastatin and might result in supratherapeutic levels when used with other statins. Based on evaluation of data from the US Food and Drug Administration's adverse event reporting system (FAERS), it is recommended that red yeast rice products be avoided in people taking prescription statins.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Niacin

Theoretically, taking red yeast rice in combination with high-dose niacin might increase the risk of rhabdomyolysis.
Red yeast rice contains varying levels of the statin drug lovastatin and has been linked to reports of myopathy. Niacin has been reported to increase the risk of rhabdomyolysis when used in combination with lovastatin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Red Yeast Rice full monograph & interactions

Fish Oil concentrate9 drug types · 327 drugs

Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking fish oil with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Clinical evidence indicates that fish oils can modestly lower blood pressure and might have additive effects in patients treated with antihypertensives.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking fish oil with contraceptive drugs might decrease the triglyceride-lowering effects of fish oil.
There is some evidence that contraceptive drugs might interfere with the triglyceride lowering effects of fish oils.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Taking fish oil with cyclosporine might increase levels and adverse effects of cyclosporine.
In kidney transplant recipients on a general immunosuppressive regimen, taking omega-3 fatty acids daily seems to increase peak blood levels of cyclosporine when compared with placebo. This increase was as much as 20% after one month. However, the area under the curve was not significantly affected.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Orlistat (Xenical, Alli)

Theoretically, taking fish oil with orlistat might decrease the absorption of fish oil fatty acids.
Orlistat binds lipase in the gastrointestinal tract and reduces fat absorption. Theoretically, taking fish oil with orlistat might decrease absorption of fish oil fatty acids. To avoid this potential interaction, recommend separating administration of orlistat and fish oil by at least 2 hours.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Sirolimus (Rapamune)

Taking fish oil with sirolimus might increase levels and adverse effects of sirolimus.
Pharmacokinetic research shows that omega-3 fatty acids increase exposure to sirolimus in kidney transplant patients on a calcineurin inhibitor-free immunosuppressive regimen. A 25% dose reduction in sirolimus was required to keep patients within the expected trough-concentration window. Researchers hypothesize that this may be due to inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) by fish oil, although this has not been confirmed in clinical research.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Tacrolimus (Prograf)

Taking fish oil with tacrolimus might increase levels and adverse effects of tacrolimus.
In a small group of patients, taking fish oil 2.6 grams (Omacor) daily for 4 weeks increased the 8-hour area under the curve of tacrolimus by 25% when compared with baseline. Peak levels were increased by approximately 22%. Researchers hypothesize that this may be due either to an increase in bioavailability or to inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) by fish oil, although this has not been confirmed in clinical research.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Fish oil may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs. However, evidence is conflicting.
While fish oil may not be a potent inhibitor of platelet function, high doses of fish oil might have antiplatelet effects. Theoretically, concomitant use of fish oil with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs may increase the risk of bleeding. However, the most rigorous research shows that short-term doses of fish oil 10 grams daily or long-term doses of 1.5 grams daily for up to 52 weeks does not increase the risk of bleeding or affect coagulation parameters in chronically ill and vulnerable patients. Other controlled research shows that fish oil does not affect platelet function or increase the risk of bleeding. Some research even suggests that perioperative fish oil use decreases bleeding risk. Some research suggests fish oil does not have additive antiplatelet effects when combined with aspirin, but other clinical evidence suggests that adding fish oil to low-dose aspirin treatment increases antiplatelet effects in patients who are aspirin-resistant. Also, some clinical research seems to show that fish oil has additive antiplatelet effects when used with aspirin and clopidogrel compared to aspirin and clopidogrel alone.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Platinum Agents

Theoretically, taking fish oil with platinum agents can cause resistance to platinum agents, potentially decreasing their effectiveness.
Platinum-induced fatty acids (PIFAs) are fatty acids secreted from human and mouse stem cells when exposed to platinum-based chemotherapy. Animal research suggests that PIFAs cause resistance to chemotherapy by stimulating lysophospholipid production in the spleen, which interferes with the DNA damage caused by certain chemotherapy drugs. One PIFA, known as 16:4(n-3), has been found in both raw fish and some commercially available fish oil products. Mackerel and herring have high PIFA concentrations, while salmon and tuna have low PIFA concentrations. Levels of PIFA in commercial fish oil products ranged from 0.2- 5.7 microMol. Animal research shows that PIFA-containing fish oil products cause resistance to cisplatin, fluorouracil, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin. It is unclear if all commercially available fish oil products contain PIFAs. Additionally, it is argued that levels of PIFA found in some fish oil products are too low to be of clinical concern. Furthermore, a lack of chemotherapy resistance in countries with high fish intake, such as Greenland, Japan, and Norway, suggest that this interaction may not be clinically significant.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Fish oil may have antiplatelet effects and might increase the risk of bleeding if used with warfarin.
Fish oil has antiplatelet effects at high doses. Case reports show elevated INR in patients taking warfarin and fish oil 1-2 grams daily. However, some clinical research shows that taking fish oil 3-6 grams daily does not significantly increase INR in patients taking warfarin.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Fish Oil concentrate full monograph & interactions

Coenzyme Q103 drug types · 198 drugs

Alkylating Agents

Coenzyme Q10 has antioxidant effects. Theoretically, this may reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals.
Theoretically, antioxidants such as coenzyme Q10 might protect tumor cells from chemotherapeutic agents that work by inducing oxidative stress, such as alkylating agents (e.g., cyclophosphamide) and radiation therapy. The clinical importance of this interaction is unknown.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Coenzyme Q10 is chemically similar to menaquinone and might have vitamin K-like procoagulant effects, which could decrease the effects of warfarin.
Concomitant use of coenzyme Q10 and warfarin might reduce the anticoagulant effects of warfarin. Four cases of decreased warfarin efficacy thought to be due to coenzyme Q10 have been reported. However, there is some preliminary clinical research that suggests coenzyme Q10 might not significantly decrease the effects of warfarin in patients who have a stable INR.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, coenzyme Q10 might have additive effects with antihypertensive drugs.
Some clinical research shows that coenzyme Q10 can significantly lower blood pressure, although other studies have shown conflicting results.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Coenzyme Q10 full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Cardio Essentials, from the product label.

XYMOGEN

See all XYMOGEN products
Name
XYMOGEN Exclusive Professional Formulas
Street Address
6900 Kingspointe Pkwy.
City
Orlando
State
FL
ZipCode
32819
Phone Number
800-647-6100
Web Address
www.xymogen.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Cardio Essentials by XYMOGEN: Common Questions

Does Cardio Essentials by XYMOGEN interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Cardio Essentials has a known interaction with 854 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Cardio Essentials contains 4 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.
Will Cardio Essentials help my heart?
The product contains ingredients with some evidence: niacin is likely effective for certain cholesterol issues in HIV patients and possibly effective for metabolic syndrome; coenzyme Q10 is possibly effective for congestive heart failure; and red yeast rice is possibly effective for heart attack prevention. Your results will depend on your individual situation — talk to your doctor about whether it fits your needs.
What's that flushing I might experience?
Flushing — redness, warmth, and tingling of the face and upper body — is a common side effect of niacin, especially at larger doses. It can happen with doses as low as 30 mg daily, and up to 70% of people may experience it. The flushing usually goes away within two weeks of continued use, and taking the supplement with food or an antacid may help.
Is this safe if I'm pregnant?
Niacin in amounts from food and standard prenatal vitamins is fine, but high-dose niacin should be avoided unless prescribed. Red yeast rice is not safe in pregnancy. Coenzyme Q10 safety in pregnancy is not well studied. Talk to your doctor before taking this product if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Can I take this while breastfeeding?
Normal dietary niacin is safe while breastfeeding. Coenzyme Q10 safety while breastfeeding has not been well studied — use caution and check with your doctor. Safety data for red yeast rice while breastfeeding is not on file, so avoid it unless your doctor advises otherwise.
What side effects might I get?
Most common are flushing from niacin, and gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea, heartburn, stomach pain) from niacin or coenzyme Q10 — these affect a small number of users. Red yeast rice may cause similar stomach issues, dizziness, and headache. Serious side effects like liver problems or muscle damage are rare but possible, especially with red yeast rice in combination with certain drugs.
What are omega-3 fatty acids and why are they in here?
Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats found in fish. This product contains eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid from fish oil; they're included to support heart health. We don't have effectiveness data for them on file, but they're a standard part of heart-support supplements.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Cardio Essentials is safe with your meds?

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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.

Cardio Essentials label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Cardio Essentials’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Niacin

Interacts with 727 drugs

Niacin (vitamin B3) is an essential nutrient your body needs for energy and metabolism, and deficiency is uncommon in most developed countries. Prescription-strength niacin has been used to...

Read the full Niacin monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Fish Oil

Interacts with 327 drugs

Fish oil provides omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) that are best known for lowering high triglyceride levels. The evidence for other heart and health benefits is mixed, and it is generally...

Read the full Fish Oil monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Coenzyme Q10

Interacts with 198 drugs

CoQ10 is a vitamin-like substance your body makes naturally that helps cells produce energy and acts as an antioxidant. It is generally well tolerated and is most studied for heart condition...

Read the full Coenzyme Q10 monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Red Yeast Rice

Interacts with 477 drugs

Red yeast rice contains monacolin K, which is chemically identical to the prescription statin lovastatin, and it can lower LDL ('bad') cholesterol. Because of this, it carries the same risks...

Read the full Red Yeast Rice monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Cardio Essentials'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 313 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.

Niacin 66 references
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  7. Jungnickel PW, Maloley PA, Vander Tuin EL, et al. Effect of two aspirin pretreatment regimens on niacin-induced cutaneous reactions. J Gen Intern Med 1997;12:591-6. PubMed
  8. Capuzzi DM, Guyton JR, Morgan JM, et al. Efficacy and safety of an extended-release niacin (Niaspan): a long-term study. Am J Cardiol 1998;82:74-81;disc. 85U-6U. PubMed
  9. Gray DR, Morgan T, Chretien SD, Kashyap ML. Efficacy and safety of controlled-release niacin in dyslipoproteinemic veterans. Ann Intern Med 1994;121:252-8. PubMed
  10. McKenney JM, Proctor JD, Harris S, Chinchili VM. A comparison of the efficacy and toxic effects of sustained- vs immediate-release niacin in hypercholesterolemic patients. JAMA 1994;271:672-7. DOI
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  17. Guyton JR, Goldberg AC, Kreisberg RA, et al. Effectiveness of once-nightly dosing of extended-release niacin alone and in combination for hypercholesterolemia. Am J Cardiol 1998;82:737-43.
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  39. Drinka PJ. Alterations in thyroid and hepatic function tests associated with preparations of sustained-release niacin. Mayo Clin Proc. 1992;67(12):1206. PubMed
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  41. Etchason JA, Miller TD, Squires RW, et al. Niacin-induced hepatitis: a potential side effect with low-dose time-release niacin. Mayo Clin Proc. 1991;66(1):23-8. PubMed
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  44. Brown BG, Bardsley J, Poulin D, et al. Moderate dose, three-drug therapy with niacin, lovastatin, and colestipol to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol <100 mg/dl in patients with hyperlipidemia and coronary artery disease. Am J Cardiol. 1997;80(2)
  45. Goldberg A, Alagona P Jr, Capuzzi DM, et al. Multiple-dose efficacy and safety of an extended-release form of niacin in the management of hyperlipidemia. Am J Cardiol. 2000;85(9):1100-5. PubMed
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  47. Morgan JM, Capuzzi DM, Guyton JR, et al. Treatment Effect of Niaspan, a Controlled-release Niacin, in Patients With Hypercholesterolemia: A Placebo-controlled Trial. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther. 1996;1(3):195-202. PubMed
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  52. Litin SC, Anderson CF. Nicotinic acid-associated myopathy: a report of three cases. Am J Med. 1989;86(4):481-3. PubMed
  53. Fraunfelder FW, Fraunfelder FT, Illingworth DR. Adverse ocular effects associated with niacin therapy. Br J Ophthalmol 1995;79:54-56. PubMed
  54. Ali EH, McJunkin B, Jubelirer S, Hood W. Niacin induced coagulopathy as a manifestation of occult liver injury. W V Med J. 2013 Jan-Feb;109(1):12-4
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See these in context on the Niacin monograph →

Fish Oil 157 references
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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