Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 13 of 15 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

CLA PM Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by GNC Total Lean

Softgel Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

CLA PM is a dietary supplement by GNC Total Lean with 15 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for hair growth and thinning hair, brittle nails, skin health.Based on those ingredients, 1,326 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Valerian root extract, Hops flower extract, Passion Flower herb powder. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of CLA PM by GNC Total Lean

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

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 14 of its 14 active ingredients.
  • “Rest and Relaxation Complex” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (300 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Restore and Recover Complex” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (79.95 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

GNC Total Lean CLA PM contains 14 ingredients. The active components include lutein (for eye health), biotin (a B vitamin), L-methionine (an amino acid), L-theanine (for cognitive support), alpha-lipoic acid (an antioxidant), silica, boron, and plant extracts: valerian root, lemon balm leaves, hops flowers, passion flower, and horsetail rush stems.

The product also includes conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which we could not check for interactions. Gelatin forms the softgel capsule.

Inactive ingredients are glycerin and caramel color.

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: nighttime metabolism support and restful sleep.
  • We looked for evidence on: Anxiety, Sleep quality, Restlessness.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Passion Flower is rated "Possibly Effective" for Pre-procedural anxiety (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Lemon Balm is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Anxiety.
  • Also on file: Hops is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Anxiety.

Lutein is possibly effective for age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Biotin is likely effective for biotin deficiency but only possibly effective for hair and skin concerns at best; evidence for other uses is insufficient.

L-theanine is possibly effective for cognitive function but lacks reliable evidence for anxiety or neurodegenerative diseases. Alpha-lipoic acid is possibly effective for diabetic nerve pain, high cholesterol, and obesity.

Valerian root is possibly effective for insomnia. Lemon balm, hops, passion flower, and horsetail have insufficient evidence for most conditions we hold data on, though lemon balm and passion flower are possibly effective for pre-procedural anxiety and insomnia respectively, and lemon balm for cold sores and mood support.

For silica, boron, L-methionine, and conjugated linoleic acid, the evidence on file is either insufficient or not established in our data.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Biotin Theanine Valerian Lemon Balm Hops Passion Flower Gelatin Lutein

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 13 of the 13 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 13 of 13.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 13 of 13.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Gelatin is generally well tolerated orally, though belching, bloating, and indigestion can occur; food amounts are safe, but high-dose supplements need medical guidance. Lutein from food and typical supplement doses is generally well tolerated.

Biotin is well tolerated even at high doses since excess is cleared in urine, though rare mild diarrhea has been reported with very high doses. L-methionine in food amounts is safe, but high-dose supplements may cause dizziness, drowsiness, low blood pressure, and headache, and safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not established.

L-theanine can cause headache, drowsiness, and increased dreaming; safety data is insufficient for pregnancy and breastfeeding—avoid supplements during both. Alpha-lipoic acid is generally well tolerated but can lower blood sugar and may cause headache, nausea, or heartburn; it is best avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data.

Valerian root commonly causes dizziness and drowsiness, and abrupt discontinuation after long use can trigger withdrawal symptoms (anxiety, insomnia, rapid heartbeat); rare cases of liver damage have been reported with multi-ingredient products. Lemon balm, hops, passion flower, and horsetail are generally well tolerated short-term but carry insufficient safety data for pregnancy and breastfeeding—avoid during both unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Silica and boron are generally safe from food and low-dose supplements, but high-dose boron is toxic; boron supplements are unsafe in pregnancy. Horsetail may contain thiaminase, which can cause thiamine deficiency with prolonged use.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Biotin Theanine Valerian Lemon Balm Hops Passion Flower Gelatin Lutein

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?
  • 7 of the 13 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Lemon Balm, Alpha-lipoic Acid, Horsetail, Hops, Valerian, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; cancer treatments; diabetes medications; lithium.
  • For scale: 1,327 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.

Check with your pharmacist if you take antihypertensives (blood-pressure drugs)—L-theanine may lower pressure further (Moderate). Also check: CNS depressants like sedatives or opioids (Moderate interactions with valerian, lemon balm, hops, passion flower), blood thinners (anticoagulants and antiplatelets; Moderate with alpha-lipoic acid), thyroid hormone (Moderate with lemon balm and alpha-lipoic acid), antidiabetes drugs (Moderate with horsetail, Minor with alpha-lipoic acid), diuretics (Moderate with horsetail), lithium (Moderate with horsetail), chemotherapy drugs (Moderate with alpha-lipoic acid), alprazolam/Xanax (Moderate with valerian), efavirenz/Sustiva (Moderate with horsetail), and glucuronidated drugs (Moderate with valerian).

If you drink alcohol regularly, note that valerian may add to its sedative effects (Moderate).

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.

This is a multi-ingredient product with sedating herbs and blood-pressure and blood-sugar effects. If you take any blood-pressure medication, blood thinner, diabetes medication, sleep aid, antidepressant, thyroid hormone, or HIV medication, check your exact drugs with the tool below before starting.

It's not appropriate during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Talk to your pharmacist about whether it's right for you and whether any of your current medications could be affected.

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

Assessment coverage: 13 of 14 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jun 23, 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 CLA PM, straight from the product label.

Brand GNC Total Lean
Barcode (UPC) 048107071288
Net contents 120 Softgel(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jun 23, 2017
DSLD ID 74428
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Softgel Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Sugar 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 CLA PM by GNC Total Lean, 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:
4 Softgel(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
4 Softgel(s)
Servings per container
30
UPC/BARCODE
048107071288
IngredientAmount% DV
Calories50 Calorie(s)--
Gelatin50 mg--
Calories from Fat40 Calorie(s)--
Total Fat4.5 Gram(s)7%
Protein2 Gram(s)--
Lutein950 mcg--
Biotin30 mcg10%
L-Methionine10 mg--
L-Theanine50 mg--
Alpha-Lipoic Acid10 mg--
Silica4 mg--
Boron2 mg--
Valerian root extract100 mg--
Conjugated Linoleic Acid3.4 Gram(s)--
Rest and Relaxation Complex300 mg--
Lemon Balm leaves extract50 mg--
Hops flower extract50 mg--
Passion Flower herb powder50 mg--
Restore and Recover Complex79.95 mg--
Horsetail Rush Stems Extract3 mg--

Other ingredients: Glycerin, Caramel color

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.
Precautions

Keep out of reach of children.

Contains: Soybeans.

Warning: For adult use only.

Do not use this product if you are pregnant or lactating. If you are taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a physician before using this product.

Discontinue use two weeks prior to surgery.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

Brand IP Statement(s)

Clarinol is a registered trademark of Stephan Lipid Nutrition.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

General Statements

Stimulant-free, nighttime metabolism support formula that promotes restful and restorative sleep

Conforms to USP <2091> for weight. Meets USP <2040> disintegration.

Actual size

Formula

Clinically researched CLA shown to improve body composition & lean muscle tone

Contains: Soybeans.

General

CODE 488311 KRG

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: As a dietary supplement, take four softgels at bedtime.

Formulation

No sugar, no artificial colors, no artificial flavors, no preservatives, sodium free, no wheat, gluten free, no dairy, yeast free.

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.

See for yourself

CLA PM by GNC Total Lean label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in CLA PM by GNC Total Lean

These are the 15 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size4 Softgel(s) Dosage formSoftgel Capsule Servings per container30 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.

Protein

2 Gram(s) per serving

Biotin

No known
interactions
30 mcg per serving

Biotin (vitamin B7) is a water-soluble vitamin your body needs to turn food into energy and to support healthy hair, skin, and nails. Most people get...

Biotin monograph & interactions

Conjugated Linoleic Acid

3.4 Gram(s) per serving Form: Safflower Oil

Rest and Relaxation Complex

300 mg per serving

Restore and Recover Complex

79.95 mg per serving

Other (inactive) ingredients: Glycerin, Caramel color. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

CLA PM by GNC Total Lean Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against CLA PM?

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
1,326Drugs
800 Moderate 526 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in CLA PM 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.

Valerian root extract6 drug types · 902 drugs

Alcohol (Ethanol)

Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with alcohol.
Valerian has sedative effects. Theoretically, valerian might have an additive sedative effect when combined with alcohol. Excessive sedation has been reported in an alcohol-abusing individual who took valerian and Gingko biloba. However, the potential interaction between valerian and alcohol has been disputed in other research. Limited evidence suggests that a combination of valerian 160 mg and lemon balm 80 mg (Euvegal) does not cause further deterioration in reaction ability and reaction rate when taken with alcohol as compared to the effects of alcohol alone.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Alprazolam (Xanax)

Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used with alprazolam. Also, valerian in high doses might modestly increase alprazolam levels, though this is not likely to be clinically significant.
Valerian has sedative effects. Theoretically, valerian might cause additive sedation when combined with alprazolam. Also, a small pharmacokinetic study shows that taking valerian extract 1000 mg daily (providing 11 mg valerenic acid) might increase alprazolam levels by about 19%. This might be due to valerian's mild inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Despite being statistically significant, this increase is not likely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cns Depressants

Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Theoretically, concomitant use of valerian and drugs with sedative and anesthetic properties may cause additive therapeutic and adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Glucuronidated Drugs

Valerian might weakly inhibit glucuronidation and increase concentrations of drugs metabolized by UGT1A1 and UGT2B7.
In vitro research shows that methanolic valerian extract and valerenic acid might competitively inhibit UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A1 (UGT1A1) and UGT2B7.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates

Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Although some in vitro evidence suggests that valerian affects CYP2D6, clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) studies show that valerian is unlikely to affect the CYP2D6 enzyme. In one PK study, taking valerian 1000 mg (providing about 11 mg valerenic acid) nightly for 14 days did not affect the metabolism of dextromethorphan, a CYP2D6 substrate. In another PK study, taking valerian 125 mg three times daily for 28 days did not affect metabolism of debrisoquine, an accepted CYP2D6 probe-substrate.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Although some in vitro evidence suggests that valerian extract might inhibit or induce CYP3A4, clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) studies show that valerian does not have a clinically significant effect on the CYP3A4 enzyme. In one PK study, taking valerian 125 mg three times daily for 28 days did not affect metabolism of midazolam, an accepted CYP3A4 probe-substrate. In another PK study, taking valerian 1000 mg (providing about 11 mg valerenic acid) nightly for 14 days modestly increases levels of alprazolam, a CYP3A4 substrate, suggesting mild inhibition of CYP3A4. However, this mild inhibition is unlikely to be clinically relevant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

Hops flower extract4 drug types · 863 drugs

Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.
Some animal research shows that hops has sedative effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of hops might interfere with hormone replacement therapy due to competition for estrogen receptors.
In vitro research suggests that certain hops constituents can competitively bind to estrogen receptors. However, most hops extracts contain very small amounts of these constituents.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Hops extract does not seem to affect the metabolism of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that flavonoid constituents of hops inhibit CYP1A2 enzyme activity. However, a pharmacokinetic study in healthy postmenopausal patients shows that taking a standardized extract of spent hops containing prenylated phenols, as 59.5 mg twice daily for 2 weeks, does not affect levels of caffeine, a CYP1A2 probe substrate.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, hops extract might alter metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates; however, this effect may not be clinically significant.
Animal research suggests that specific constituents of hops, called lupulones, can induce hepatic CYP3A4 enzyme activity. However, a pharmacokinetic study in healthy postmenopausal patients with normal metabolism shows that taking a standardized extract of spent hops containing prenylated phenols, as 59.5 mg twice daily for 2 weeks, decreases the concentration of alprazolam, a CYP3A4 probe substrate, by 7.6%. This reduction is unlikely to be clinically relevant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Passion Flower herb powder3 drug types · 836 drugs

Cns Depressants

Concomitant use of passion flower with sedative drugs might cause additive effects and side effects.
Research in animals and humans shows that passion flower has sedative effects which can be additive when used with sedative medications like lorazepam.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, passion flower might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that passion flower can induce CYP3A4 enzymes, albeit to a much lower degree than rifampin, a known CYP3A4 inducer.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide Substrates (Oatp)

Theoretically, passion flower might reduce the bioavailability of OATP2B1 and OATP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that the passion flower constituents apigenin and vitexin inhibit OATP2B1 and OATP1A2. This inhibition may be dose-dependent. One specific high-flavonoid passion flower extract (Valverde) seems to inhibit OATP2B1 and OATP1A2, while another extract with a lower flavonoid concentration (Arkocaps) shows less potent inhibition. OATPs are responsible for the uptake of drugs and other compounds into the body; however, the specific activities of OATP2B1 and OATP1A2 are not well characterized.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

L-Theanine3 drug types · 565 drugs

Antihypertensive Drugs

Theanine might lower blood pressure, potentiating the effects of antihypertensive drugs.
Animal research shows that theanine can lower blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive animals. Theoretically, concomitant use of theanine and antihypertensive drugs might potentiate the antihypertensive activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, theanine might have additive sedative effects when used in conjunction with CNS depressants. However, it is unclear if this concern is clinically relevant.
Theoretically, theanine may compete with glutamate and/or increase plasma gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, which could cause CNS depression. In one clinical study, some subjects taking oral theanine reported drowsiness.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

Clinical studies regarding the effects of L-theanine on serotonin levels are conflicting. Some studies suggest it can increase serotonin levels in the brain while others report that it may decrease them. Nevertheless, there have been no reports of l-theanine being a causative agent in serotonergic-related side effects or serotonin syndrome.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence C

Lemon Balm leaves extract2 drug types · 264 drugs

Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of lemon balm might have additive effects with CNS depressant drugs.
Lemon balm seems to have CNS depressant activity in animals and in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, lemon balm might interfere with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
In vitro, constituents of lemon balm extract bind to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), preventing TSH receptor-binding and leading to the inhibition of TSH-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. In animals, lemon balm extract has been shown to decrease levels of circulating TSH and inhibit thyroid secretion.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Alpha-Lipoic Acid5 drug types · 263 drugs

Alkylating Agents

Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of alpha-lipoic acid might alter the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
The use of antioxidants like alpha-lipoic acid during chemotherapy is controversial. There are concerns that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals. However, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that might interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid have on chemotherapy. Advise patients to consult their oncologist before using alpha-lipoic acid.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, alpha-lipoic acid may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro, alpha-lipoic acid inhibits platelet aggregation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antitumor Antibiotics

Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of alpha-lipoic acid might alter the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
The use of antioxidants like alpha-lipoic acid during chemotherapy is controversial. There are concerns that antioxidants could reduce the activity of antitumor antibiotic drugs, which work by generating free radicals. However, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that might interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid have on chemotherapy involving antitumor antibiotics. Advise patients to consult their oncologist before using alpha-lipoic acid.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, alpha-lipoic acid might decrease the effects of thyroid hormone drugs.
Animal research suggests that co-administration of thyroxine with alpha-lipoic acid reduces conversion into the active T3 form.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking alpha-lipoic acid with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Although some small clinical studies have suggested that alpha-lipoic acid can lower blood glucose levels, larger clinical studies in patients with diabetes have shown no clinically meaningful effect. Additionally, co-administration of single doses of alpha-lipoic acid and glyburide or acarbose did not cause detectable drug interactions in healthy volunteers.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B

Horsetail Rush Stems Extract5 drug types · 188 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking horsetail with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Equisetum myriochaetum has demonstrated hypoglycemic activity in clinical research. In an animal diabetic model, Equisetum giganteum had hypoglycemic effects. It is unclear whether other horsetail species have hypoglycemic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, taking horsetail with diuretic drugs might increase potassium loss and the risk of hypokalemia.
Laboratory research shows that various species of horsetail have diuretic properties. Due to its diuretic effects, there has been concern that taking horsetail along with potassium-depleting diuretics might increase the risk for hypokalemia. However, pharmacokinetic research in humans shows that taking horsetail 900 mg daily for 4 days does not affect urinary excretion of electrolytes, including potassium and sodium, despite having a diuretic effect similar to taking hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg daily. It is unclear if taking horsetail for a longer duration would affect electrolyte levels. Until more is known, use with caution.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Efavirenz (Sustiva)

Theoretically, horsetail might decrease the levels and clinical effects of efavirenz.
In two case reports, patients were found to have detectable viral loads when taking horsetail-containing supplements along with an antiretroviral regimen that included efavirenz. In one case, the antiretroviral regimen included zidovudine, lamivudine, and efavirenz; in the other case, the regimen consisted of emtricitabine, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, and efavirenz. One month after discontinuing horsetail, the viral loads became undetectable in both cases. The exact mechanism of this interaction is unknown. It is also unclear if this interaction is specific to efavirenz or if it is related to various components of antiretroviral therapy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lithium

Theoretically, horsetail might increase the levels and adverse effects of lithium.
Animal research suggests that horsetail has diuretic properties. Theoretically, due to these potential diuretic effects, horsetail might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium. The dose of lithium might need to be decreased.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (Nrtis)

Theoretically, horsetail might decrease the levels and clinical effects of NRTIs.
In two case reports, patients were found to have detectable viral loads when taking horsetail-containing supplements along with an antiretroviral therapy. In one case, the antiretroviral regimen included zidovudine, lamivudine, and efavirenz; in the other case, the regimen consisted of emtricitabine, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, and efavirenz. One month after discontinuing the supplement, the viral loads became undetectable in both cases. The exact mechanism of these interactions is unknown. It is also unclear if these interactions are specific to NRTIs or if they are related to various components of antiretroviral therapy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for CLA PM, from the product label.

GNC Total Lean

See all GNC Total Lean products
Name
General Nutrition Corporation
City
Pittsburgh
State
PA
ZipCode
15222
Phone Number
1-888-462-2548
Web Address
gnc.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

CLA PM by GNC Total Lean: Common Questions

Does CLA PM by GNC Total Lean interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, CLA PM has a known interaction with 1,326 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
CLA PM contains 15 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 pregnant or breastfeeding?
Not safely. L-theanine, lemon balm, hops, passion flower, horsetail, silica, boron, and alpha-lipoic acid all lack sufficient safety data or are rated unsafe for pregnancy and/or breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about whether any ingredient might work for you before you conceive or if you're nursing.
Will this help me lose weight?
The product contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which is marketed for weight management, but we hold no effectiveness data for it. Alpha-lipoic acid is possibly effective for obesity, and horsetail has insufficient evidence. The rest of the ingredients are not positioned for weight loss in the data we hold.
Is this safe to use every night?
Long-term safety is not well studied for most ingredients here—valerian, lemon balm, hops, passion flower, and horsetail are all labeled for short-term use only. Daily long-term use risks side effects like dependence (with valerian) and withdrawal when you stop. Talk to your pharmacist about duration and monitoring.
What are the main side effects?
The sedating herbs—valerian, lemon balm, hops, and passion flower—commonly cause drowsiness, dizziness, and vivid dreams. Alpha-lipoic acid may cause nausea, headache, or heartburn. Gelatin can cause bloating and belching. Horsetail may cause nausea or increased bowel movements. If you're drowsy during the day or have stomach upset, stop and contact your pharmacist.
Can I take this with my sleep aid?
Not without checking first. This product contains four sedating herbs (valerian, lemon balm, hops, passion flower) that all interact with CNS depressants like sleep aids at Moderate severity, meaning serious additive drowsiness and impaired function are possible. Talk to your pharmacist before combining them.
What does lutein do in this product?
Lutein is possibly effective for age-related macular degeneration and cataracts—eye conditions related to aging. It's a carotenoid (pigment) that accumulates in the retina and is thought to filter harmful light. At the doses in this product, it's generally well tolerated.

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.

CLA PM label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind CLA PM’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Biotin

Biotin (vitamin B7) is a water-soluble vitamin your body needs to turn food into energy and to support healthy hair, skin, and nails. Most people get plenty from a normal diet, and true defi...

Read the full Biotin monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Theanine

Interacts with 565 drugs

Theanine (usually L-theanine) is an amino acid found naturally in tea leaves that many people take to feel calmer and less stressed without strong drowsiness. Early research suggests it may...

Read the full Theanine monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Valerian

Interacts with 902 drugs

Valerian is an herb whose root is widely used as a natural sleep aid and for calming nerves. The evidence is mixed and often weak, so it may help some people sleep but does not work reliably...

Read the full Valerian monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Lemon Balm

Interacts with 264 drugs

Lemon balm is a gentle, lemon-scented mint-family herb traditionally used to ease stress, support sleep, and calm digestion, and topically for cold sores. Early studies are promising but gen...

Read the full Lemon Balm monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Hops

Interacts with 863 drugs

Hops are most often used for sleep and mild anxiety, frequently combined with valerian, but the human evidence is limited and not very strong. They are generally well tolerated when used sho...

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Herb & supplement monograph

Passion Flower

Interacts with 836 drugs

Passion flower is a traditional calming herb that many people use for anxiety and sleep. Early studies hint it may help with mild anxiety and restlessness, but the evidence is limited and mo...

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Herb & supplement monograph

Gelatin

Gelatin is a protein made from animal collagen, used as a food, a capsule ingredient, and a supplement for joint, skin, and bone health. For most health uses, the evidence is limited or mixe...

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Herb & supplement monograph

Lutein

Lutein is a plant-based antioxidant pigment that concentrates in the eye, and the best evidence suggests it (often combined with zeaxanthin) may help slow progression of age-related macular...

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Herb & supplement monograph

Methionine

Methionine is an essential amino acid that your body needs for protein building and many basic chemical reactions. Most people get enough from a normal diet, and supplements are generally no...

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Herb & supplement monograph

Alpha-lipoic Acid

Interacts with 263 drugs

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant made naturally by the body and found in small amounts in foods. It is most studied for diabetic nerve pain, where some evidence suggests it may help...

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Herb & supplement monograph

Silicon

Silicon is a trace mineral found in the body and in foods like oats, barley, and certain fruits and vegetables, and it is popular in supplements for hair, skin, nail, and bone health. Some s...

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Herb & supplement monograph

Boron

Boron is a trace mineral found in many plant foods and sold as a supplement, mainly promoted for bone, joint, and hormone health. The human evidence for most of these uses is limited or prel...

Read the full Boron monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Horsetail

Interacts with 188 drugs

Horsetail is a traditional herb most often used as a mild diuretic and for hair, nail, and bone support, but high-quality human evidence is limited. It can cause thiamine (vitamin B1) loss w...

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Sources

Sources & How We Checked

CLA PM'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 205 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.

Gelatin 11 references
  1. Lewis CJ. Letter to reiterate certain public health and safety concerns to firms manufacturing or importing dietary supplements that contain specific bovine tissues. FDA. Available at: www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/dspltr05.html.
  2. Schwick HG, Heide K. Immunochemistry and immunology of collagen and gelatin. Bibl Haematol 1969;33:111-25. PubMed
  3. Moskowitz RW. Role of collagen hydrolysate in bone and joint disease.Semin Arthritis Rheum 2000;30:87-99. PubMed
  4. Kelso JM. The gelatin story. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1999;103:200-2.
  5. Nakayama T, Aizawa C, Kuno-Sakai H. A clinical analysis of gelatin allergy and determination of its causal relationship to the previous administration of gelatin-containing acellular pertussis vaccine combined with diphtheria and tetanus toxoids. J Allerg PubMed
  6. Sakaguchi M, Inouye S. Anaphylaxis to gelatin-containing rectal suppositories. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2001;108:1033-4. PubMed
  7. PDR Electronic Library. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2001.
  8. de la Fuente Tornero E, Vega Castro A, de Sierra Hernández PÁ, et al. Kounis syndrome during anesthesia: Presentation of indolent systemic mastocytosis: A case report. A Case Rep. 2017;8(9):226-228. PubMed
  9. Ventura Spagnolo E, Calapai G, Minciullo PL, Mannucci C, Asmundo A, Gangemi S. Lethal anaphylactic reaction to intravenous gelatin in the course of surgery. Am J Ther. 2016;23(6):e1344-e1346. PubMed
  10. Li Y, He H, Yang L, Li X, Li D, Luo S. Therapeutic effect of Colla corii asini on improving anemia and hemoglobin compositions in pregnant women with thalassemia. Int J Hematol. 2016;104(5):559-565. PubMed
  11. Coury JR, Skaggs KF, Marciano GF, et al. Intraoperative Anaphylaxis to the Bovine Flowable Gelatin Matrix: A Report of 2 Cases. JBJS Case Connect 2022;12(1). PubMed

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Lutein 2 references
  1. Brown L, Rimm EB, Seddon JM, et al. A prospective study of carotenoid intake and risk of cataract extraction in US men. Am J Clin Nutr 1999;70:517-24. PubMed
  2. Chasan-Taber L, Willett WC, Seddon JM, et al. A prospective study of carotenoid and vitamin A intakes and risk of cataract extraction in US women. Am J Clin Nutr 1999;70:509-16. PubMed

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Biotin 4 references
  1. Debourdeau PM, Djezzar S, Estival JL, et al. Life-threatening eosinophilic pleuropericardial effusion related to vitamins B5 and H. Ann Pharmacother 2001;35:424-6. DOI
  2. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline (2000). Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000. Available at: http://b
  3. Mock DM, Quirk JG, Mock NI. Marginal biotin deficiency during normal pregnancy. Am J Clin Nutr 2002;75:295-9. PubMed
  4. Sedel F, Papeix C, Bellanger A, Touitou V, Lebrun-Frenay C, Galanaud D, et al. High doses of biotin in chronic progressive multiple sclerosis: a pilot study.Mult Scler Relat Disord. 2015;4(2):159-69. doi: 10.1016/j.msard.2015.01.005. PubMed

See these in context on the Biotin monograph →

Methionine 12 references
  1. La Vecchia C, Negri E, Franceschi S, Decarli A. Case-control study on influence of methionine, nitrite, and salt on gastric carcinogenesis in northern Italy. Nutr Cancer 1997;27:65-8. PubMed
  2. Btaiche IF, Khalidi N. Parenteral nutrition-associated liver complications in children. Pharmacotherapy 2002;22:188-211.. PubMed
  3. Cottington EM, LaMantia C, Stabler SP, et al. Adverse event associated with methionine loading test: a case report. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2002;22:1046-50.. PubMed
  4. Anon. Should methionine be added to paracetamol formulations? Drug Ther Perspect 1997;10:11-3. DOI
  5. Smulders, Y. M., Rakic, M., Slaats, E. H., Treskes, M., Sijbrands, E. J., Odekerken, D. A., Stehouwer, C. D., and Silberbusch, J. Fasting and post-methionine homocysteine levels in NIDDM. Determinants and correlations with retinopathy, albuminuria, and c
  6. McAuley, D. F., Hanratty, C. G., McGurk, C., Nugent, A. G., and Johnston, G. D. Effect of methionine supplementation on endothelial function, plasma homocysteine, and lipid peroxidation. J.Toxicol.Clin.Toxicol. 1999;37(4):435-440. PubMed
  7. Hanratty, C. G., McGrath, L. T., McAuley, D. F., Young, I. S., and Johnston, G. D. The effects of oral methionine and homocysteine on endothelial function. Heart 2001;85(3):326-330. PubMed
  8. Ward, M., McNulty, H., McPartlin, J., Strain, J. J., Weir, D. G., and Scott, J. M. Effect of supplemental methionine on plasma homocysteine concentrations in healthy men: a preliminary study. Int.J.Vitam.Nutr.Res. 2001;71(1):82-86. PubMed
  9. Yaghmai, R., Kashani, A. H., Geraghty, M. T., Okoh, J., Pomper, M., Tangerman, A., Wagner, C., Stabler, S. P., Allen, R. H., Mudd, S. H., and Braverman, N. Progressive cerebral edema associated with high methionine levels and betaine therapy in a patient
  10. Talukdar R, Murthy HV, Reddy DN. Role of methionine containing antioxidant combination in the management of pain in chronic pancreatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pancreatology 2015;15(2):136-44. PubMed
  11. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrate, Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein, and Amino Acids. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press, 2005. Available at: https://doi.org/10.17226 DOI
  12. Khairan P, Sobue T, Eshak ES, et al. Association of B Vitamins and Methionine Intake with the Risk of Gastric Cancer: The Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study. Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2022;15(2):101-110. PubMed

See these in context on the Methionine monograph →

Theanine 6 references
  1. Yokogoshi H, Kobayashi M. Hypotensive effect of gamma-glutamylethylamide in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Life Sci 1998;62:1065-8.
  2. Haskell, C. F., Kennedy, D. O., Milne, A. L., Wesnes, K. A., and Scholey, A. B. The effects of L-theanine, caffeine and their combination on cognition and mood. Biol.Psychol. 2008;77(2):113-122. PubMed
  3. Yokogoshi, H., Kato, Y., Sagesaka, Y. M., Takihara-Matsuura, T., Kakuda, T., and Takeuchi, N. Reduction effect of theanine on blood pressure and brain 5-hydroxyindoles in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Biosci.Biotechnol.Biochem. 1995;59(4):615-618. PubMed
  4. Lyon MR, Kapoor MP, Juneja LR. The effects of L-theanine (Suntheanine®) on objective sleep quality in boys with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Altern Med Rev. 2011;16(4):348-
  5. Hidese S, Ota M, Wakabayashi C, et al. Effects of chronic l-theanine administration in patients with major depressive disorder: an open-label study. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2017;29(2):72-9.
  6. Tsuchiya T, Honda H, Oikawa M, et al. Oral administration of the amino acids cystine and theanine attenuates the adverse events of S-1 adjuvant chemotherapy in gastrointestinal cancer patients. Int J Clin Oncol 2016;21(6):1085-90. PubMed

See these in context on the Theanine monograph →

Alpha-lipoic Acid 48 references
  1. Labriola D, Livingston R. Possible interactions between dietary antioxidants and chemotherapy. Oncology 1999;13:1003-8.
  2. Anon. Alpha-lipoic acid. Altern Med Rev 1998;3:308-10.
  3. Konrad T, Vicini P, Kusterer K, et al. Alpha-lipoic acid treatment decreases serum lactate and pyruvate concentrations and improves glucose effectiveness in lean and obese patients with Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care 1999;22:280-7. PubMed
  4. Ziegler D, Hanefeld M, Ruhnau KJ, et al. Treatment of symptomatic diabetic peripheral neuropathy with the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid: A 3-week, multicentre randomized controlled trial (ALADIN Study). Diabetologia 1995;38:1425-33.
  5. Gleiter CH, Schreeb KH, Freudenthaler S, et al. Lack of interaction between thioctic acid, glibenclamide and acarbose. Br J Clin Pharmacol 1999;48:819-25. PubMed
  6. Jacob S, Henriksen EJ, Tritschler HJ, et al. Improvement of insulin-stimulated glucose-disposal in type 2 diabetes after repeated parenteral administration of thioctic acid. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabet 1996;104:284-8. PubMed
  7. Jacob S, Henriksen EJ, Schiemann AL, et al. Enhancement of glucose disposal in patients with type 2 diabetes by alpha-lipoic acid. Arzneimittelforschung 1995;45:872-4.
  8. Jacob S, Ruus P, Hermann R, et al. Oral administration of RAC-alpha-lipoic acid modulates insulin sensitivity in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: a placebo-controlled, pilot trial. Free Rad Biol Med 1999;27:309-14.
  9. Segermann J, Hotze A, Ulrich H, Rao GS. Effect of alpha-lipoic acid on the peripheral conversion of thyroxine to triiodothyronine and on serum lipid-, protein- and glucose levels. Arzneimittelforschung 1991;41:1294-8.
  10. Beitner H. Randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind study on the clinical efficacy of a cream containing 5% alpha-lipoic acid related to photoaging of facial skin. Br J Dermatol 2003;149:841-9.
  11. Ziegler D, Nowak H, Kempler P, et al. Treatment of symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy with the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid: A meta-analysis. Diabet Med 2004;21:114-21.
  12. Prasad KN. Rationale for using high-dose multiple dietary antioxidants as an adjunct to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. J Nutr 2004;134:3182S-3S. PubMed
  13. Conklin KA. Cancer chemotherapy and antioxidants. J Nutr 2004;134:3201S-3204S. PubMed
  14. Vincent HK, Bourguignon CM, Vincent KR, Taylor AG. Effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation in peripheral arterial disease: a pilot study. J Alt Complement Med 2007;13:577-84. PubMed
  15. Furukawa N, Miyamura N, Nishida K, et al. Possible relevance of alpha lipoic acid contained in a health supplement in a case of insulin autoimmune syndrome. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2007;75:366-7. PubMed
  16. Ziegler D., Ametov A., Barinov A., Dyck P. J., Gurieva I., Low P. A., Munzel U., Yakhno N., Raz I., Novosadova M., Maus J., Samigullin, R. Oral treatment with alpha-lipoic acid improves symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy: the SYDNEY 2 trial. Diabetes Car
  17. Gu X. M., Zhang S. S., Wu J. C., Tang Z. Y., Lu Z. Q., Li H., Liu C., Chen L., Ning, G. [Efficacy and safety of high-dose a-lipoic acid in the treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy]. Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi 2010;90(35):2473-2476.
  18. Porasuphatana S., Suddee S., Nartnampong A., Konsil J., Harnwong B., Santaweesuk A. Glycemic and oxidative status of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus following oral administration of alpha-lipoic acid: a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled
  19. Ansar H., Mazloom Z., Kazemi F., Hejazi N. Effect of alpha-lipoic acid on blood glucose, insulin resistance and glutathione peroxidase of type 2 diabetic patients. Saudi Med J 2011;32(6):584-588. DOI
  20. de Oliveira A. M., Rondó P. H., Luzia L. A., D'Abronzo F. H., Illison V. K. The effects of lipoic acid and a-tocopherol supplementation on the lipid profile and insulin sensitivity of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, double-blind, pla
  21. Mazloom Z., Ansar H. The Effect of Alpha-Lipoic Acid on Blood Pressure in Type 2 Diabetics. Iranian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism 2009;11(3):245-250.
  22. Volchegorskii I. A., Rassokhina L. M., Koliadich M. I., Alekseev M. I. [Comparative study of alpha-lipoic acid and mexidol effects on affective status, cognitive functions and quality of life in diabetes mellitus patients]. Eksp Klin Farmakol 2011;74(11):
  23. Cavalcanti D. R., da Silveira F. R. Alpha lipoic acid in burning mouth syndrome--a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. J Oral Pathol Med 2009;38(3):254-261. PubMed
  24. Koh E. H., Lee W. J., Lee S. A., Kim E. H., Cho E. H., Jeong E., Kim D. W., Kim M. S., Park J. Y., Park K. G., Lee H. J., Lee I. K., Lim S., Jang H. C., Lee K. H., Lee K. U. Effects of alpha-lipoic Acid on body weight in obese subjects. Am J Med 2011;124( PubMed
  25. Bergqvist-Karlsson, A., Thelin, I., and Bergendorff, O. Contact dermatitis to alpha-lipoic acid in an anti-wrinkle cream. Contact Dermatitis 2006;55(1):56-57.
  26. Tang, J., Wingerchuk, D. M., Crum, B. A., Rubin, D. I., and Demaerschalk, B. M. Alpha-lipoic acid may improve symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy. Neurologist. 2007;13(3):164-167. PubMed
  27. Hegazy SK, Tolba OA, Mostafa TM, Eid MA, El-Afify DR. Alpha-lipoic acid improves subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in asymptomatic patients with type 1 diabetes. Rev Diabet Stud 2013;10(1):58-67. PubMed
  28. Huang Z, Wan X, Liu J, et al. Short-term continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion combined with insulin sensitizers rosiglitazone, metformin, or antioxidant a-lipoic acid in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus. Diabetes Technol Ther 201
  29. Sarezky D, Raquib AR, Dunaief JL, Kim BJ. Tolerability in the elderly population of high-dose alpha lipoic acid: a potential antioxidant therapy for the eye. Clin Ophthalmol. 2016 Sep 29;10:1899-1903. PubMed
  30. Boriani F, Granchi D, Roatti G, Merlini L, Sabattini T, Baldini N. Alpha-lipoic acid after median nerve decompression at the carpal tunnel: a randomized controlled trial. J Hand Surg Am. 2017 Apr;42(4):236-42. PubMed
  31. Karkabounas S, Papadopoulos N, Anastasiadou C, et al. Effects of a-lipoic Acid, carnosine, and thiamine supplementation in obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double-blind study. J Med Food. 2018;21(12):1197-1203.
  32. Murray GL, Colombo J. (r)Alpha lipoic acid is a safe, effective pharmacologic therapy of chronic orthostatic hypotension associated with low sympathetic tone. Int J Angiol. 2019;28(3):188-193. PubMed
  33. Bobe G, Michels AJ, Zhang WJ, et al. A randomized controlled trial of long-term (R)-&alpha;-lipoic acid supplementation promotes weight loss in overweight or obese adults without altering baseline elevated plasma triglyceride concentrations. J Nutr. 2020:
  34. Passiatore M, Perna A, De-Vitis R, Taccardo G. The use of alfa-lipoic acid-R (ALA-R) in patients with mild-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome: A randomised controlled open label prospective study. Malays Orthop J. 2020;14(1):1-6. PubMed
  35. El-Nahas MR, Elkannishy G, Abdelhafez H, Elkhamisy ET, El-Sehrawy AA. Oral alpha lipoic acid treatment for symptomatic diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled study. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets. 2020. PubMed
  36. Kim BJ, Hunter A, Brucker AJ, et al. Orally administered alpha lipoic acid as a treatment for geographic atrophy: A randomized clinical trial. Ophthalmol Retina. 2020;4(9):889-898. PubMed
  37. Derosa G, D'Angelo A, Preti P, Maffioli P. Safety and efficacy of alpha lipoic acid during 4 years of observation: A retrospective, clinical trial in healthy subjects in primary prevention. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2020;14:5367-5374.
  38. Sun Y, Guan X, Wang H, et al. Randomized clinical trial of combined therapy with oral a-lipoic acid and NB-UVB for nonsegmental stable vitiligo. Dermatol Ther. 2021;34(1):e14610.
  39. Gilron I, Robb S, Tu D, et al. Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial of alpha-lipoic acid for the treatment of fibromyalgia pain: the IMPALA trial. Pain. 2021;162(2):561-568. PubMed
  40. Gullo D, Evans JL, Sortino G, Goldfine ID, Vigneri R. Insulin autoimmune syndrome (Hirata Disease) in European Caucasians taking a-lipoic acid. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). 2014;81(2):204-9.
  41. Yukina M, Nuralieva N, Solovyev M, Troshina E, Vasilyev E. Insulin autoimmune syndrome. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab Case Rep. 2020;2020:19-0159. PubMed
  42. Moffa S, Improta I, Rocchetti S, Mezza T, Giaccari A. Potential cause-effect relationship between insulin autoimmune syndrome and alpha lipoic acid: Two case reports. Nutrition. 2019;57:1-4. PubMed
  43. Izzo V, Greco C, Corradini D, et al. Insulin autoimmune syndrome in an Argentine woman taking a-lipoic acid: A case report and review of the literature. SAGE Open Med Case Rep. 2018;6:2050313X18819601.
  44. EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA), Turck D, et al. Scientific opinion on the relationship between intake of alpha-lipoic acid (thioctic acid) and the risk of insulin autoimmune syndrome. EFSA J 2021;19(6):e06577. PubMed
  45. Jibril AT, Jayedi A, Shab-Bidar S. Efficacy and safety of oral alpha-lipoic acid supplementation for type 2 diabetes management: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized trials. Endocr Connect 2022;11(10):e220322. PubMed
  46. Corazza M, Arlotti E, Schettini N, Pacetti L, Bianchi A, Borghi A. Allergic contact dermatitis due to a-lipoic acid in a topical over-the-counter product: A case report. Contact Dermatitis 2023.
  47. Velasco-Amador JP, Prados-Carmona Á, Navarro-Triviño FJ. Contact urticaria syndrome caused by alpha-lipoic acid in a master formula for vulvar lichen sclerosus. Contact Dermatitis 2023;89(2):136-137. PubMed
  48. Sehgal T, Ohri U, Mittal N, Attri P, Dishant F. A Case of Insulin Autoimmune Syndrome in an Indian Male Taking Alpha-Lipoic Acid. Cureus 2023;15(8):e43743. PubMed

See these in context on the Alpha-lipoic Acid monograph →

Silicon 19 references
  1. 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.
  2. Jugdaohsingh R, Anderson SH, Tucker KL, et al. Dietary silicon intake and absorption. Am J Clin Nutr 2002;75:887-93. PubMed
  3. Ichiyanagi O, Sasagawa I, Adachi Y, et al. Silica urolithiasis without magnesium trisilicate intake. Urol Int 1998;61:39-42. PubMed
  4. Levison DA, Crocker PR, Banim S, Wallace DM. Silica stones in the urinary bladder. Lancet 1982;1:704-5. PubMed
  5. Lee MH, Lee YH, Hsu TH, et al. Silica stone--development due to long time oral trisilicate intake. Scand J Urol Nephrol 1993;27:267-9. PubMed
  6. Cruz Guerra, N. A., Gomez Garcia, M. A., Lovaco, Castellano F., Saez Garrido, J. C., Garcia, Cuerpo E., and Escudero, Barrilero A. [Silica urolithiasis: report of a new case]. Actas Urol.Esp 2000;24(2):202-204.
  7. Merget, R., Bauer, T., Kupper, H. U., Philippou, S., Bauer, H. D., Breitstadt, R., and Bruening, T. Health hazards due to the inhalation of amorphous silica. Arch Toxicol. 2002;75(11-12):625-634. PubMed
  8. Khuder, S. A., Peshimam, A. Z., and Agraharam, S. Environmental risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis. Rev Environ Health 2002;17(4):307-315. PubMed
  9. McLaughlin, J. K., Chow, W. H., and Levy, L. S. Amorphous silica: a review of health effects from inhalation exposure with particular reference to cancer. J Toxicol.Environ Health 4-25-1997;50(6):553-566. DOI
  10. Pelucchi, C., Pira, E., Piolatto, G., Coggiola, M., Carta, P., and La, Vecchia C. Occupational silica exposure and lung cancer risk: a review of epidemiological studies 1996-2005. Ann.Oncol. 2006;17(7):1039-1050. PubMed
  11. Gillissen, A., Gessner, C., Hammerschmidt, S., Hoheisel, G., and Wirtz, H. [Health significance of inhaled particles]. Dtsch.Med Wochenschr. 3-24-2006;131(12):639-644.
  12. Hu, J. F., Qu, H., and Wang, J. Z. [Meta analysis for relationship between exposure of free silicon dioxide and lung tumor]. Zhonghua Lao.Dong.Wei Sheng Zhi.Ye.Bing.Za Zhi. 2006;24(7):415-417.
  13. Jugdaohsingh, R. Silicon and bone health. J Nutr Health Aging 2007;11(2):99-110.
  14. Lacasse, Y., Martin, S., Gagne, D., and Lakhal, L. Dose-response meta-analysis of silica and lung cancer. Cancer Causes Control 2009;20(6):925-933. PubMed
  15. McCormic, Z. D., Khuder, S. S., Aryal, B. K., Ames, A. L., and Khuder, S. A. Occupational silica exposure as a risk factor for scleroderma: a meta-analysis. Int Arch Occup.Environ Health 2010;83(7):763-769. PubMed
  16. Haddad, F. S. and Kouyoumdjian, A. Silica stones in humans. Urol.Int 1986;41(1):70-76. PubMed
  17. Tervaert, J. W., Stegeman, C. A., and Kallenberg, C. G. Silicon exposure and vasculitis. Curr Opin.Rheumatol 1998;10(1):12-17. PubMed
  18. Steenland, K. and Stayner, L. Silica, asbestos, man-made mineral fibers, and cancer. Cancer Causes Control 1997;8(3):491-503. PubMed
  19. Boqué N, Valls RM, Pedret A, Puiggrós F, Arola L, Solà R. Relative absorption of silicon from different formulations of dietary supplements: a pilot randomized, double-blind, crossover post-prandial study. Sci Rep 2021;11(1):16479. PubMed

See these in context on the Silicon monograph →

Boron 6 references
  1. Ellenhorn MJ, et al. Ellenhorn's Medical Toxicology: Diagnoses and Treatment of Human Poisoning. 2nd ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams & Wilkins, 1997.
  2. 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.
  3. Thai L, Hart LL. Boric acid vaginal suppositories. Ann Pharmacother 1993;27:1355-7.
  4. Acs N, Banhidy F, Puho E, Czeizel AE. Teratogenic effects of vaginal boric acid treatment during pregnancy. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2006;93:55-6. PubMed
  5. Garabrant, D. H., Bernstein, L., Peters, J. M., and Smith, T. J. Respiratory and eye irritation from boron oxide and boric acid dusts. J Occup Med 1984;26(8):584-586. PubMed
  6. Hjelm C, Harari F, Vahter M. Pre- and postnatal environmental boron exposure and infant growth: results from a mother-child cohort in northern Argentina. Environ Res 2019;171:60-8. PubMed

See these in context on the Boron monograph →

Valerian 37 references
  1. Willey LB, Mady SP, Cobaugh DJ, Wax PM. Valerian overdose: a case report. Vet Hum Toxicol 1995;37:364-5.
  2. Kuhlmann J, Berger W, Podzuweit H, Schmidt U. The influence of valerian treatment on "reaction time, alertness and concentration" in volunteers. Pharmacopsychiatry 1999;32:235-41. PubMed
  3. Klepser TB, Klepser ME. Unsafe and potentially safe herbal therapies. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1999;56:125-38. PubMed
  4. Houghton PJ. The scientific basis for the reputed activity of Valerian. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999;51:505-12. PubMed
  5. Garges HP, Varia I, Doraiswamy PM. Cardiac complications and delirium associated with Valerian root withdrawal. [Letter to the Editor]. JAMA 1998;280:1566-7. PubMed
  6. Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000;7:273-82. PubMed
  7. MacGregor FB, Abernethy VE, Dahabra S, et al. Hepatotoxicity of herbal remedies. BMJ 1989;299:1156-7. PubMed
  8. Leathwood PD, Chauffard F. Aqueous extract of valerian reduces latency to fall asleep in man. Planta Med 1985;2:144-8. PubMed
  9. Hadley S, Petry JJ. Valerian. Am Fam Physician 2003;67:1755-8..
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Lemon Balm 12 references
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Hops 15 references
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Passion Flower 19 references
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Horsetail 14 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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