Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 3 of 5 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Mars Symbioscience

CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix label
See full label image
Powder Category: Botanical With Nutrients
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 CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix 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

CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix is a dietary supplement by Mars Symbioscience with 5 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for preventing or treating low potassium (hypokalemia), supporting healthy blood pressure, muscle cramps.Based on those ingredients, 725 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Cocoa extract, Iron, Potassium. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

Jump to a section

Check Your Meds Against CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix by Mars Symbioscience

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix by Mars Symbioscience — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

Pharmacist-reviewed data Checks every ingredient Answer in seconds
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix by Mars Symbioscience

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 4 of its 4 active ingredients.
  • “Cocoa extract” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (1,500 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

This powder contains 4 active ingredients. Potassium is a mineral your body needs to regulate your heartbeat and nerve signals.

Iron is essential for building red blood cells and preventing anemia. Fiber supports digestive health.

Cocoa flavanols are plant compounds from cocoa that may help your heart and blood vessels. The product also contains inactive ingredients: cocoa powder, maltodextrin (a carbohydrate filler), and sunflower lecithin (an emulsifier that helps mix the powder).

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: promotes healthy blood flow and cardiovascular function.
  • We looked for evidence on: Cardiovascular disease (CVD), Heart failure, Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), Stroke, Atrial fibrillation, blood circulation — and 2 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Cocoa is rated "Possibly Effective" for Cardiovascular disease (CVD) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Iron is rated "Possibly Effective" for Heart failure.
  • Also on file: Cocoa is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Atrial fibrillation, Heart failure, Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), Stroke.

Iron is effective for treating iron deficiency anemia, anemia from chronic disease, and iron deficiency during pregnancy. It's possibly effective for heart failure, though the evidence is less solid.

Cocoa flavanols are possibly effective for cardiovascular disease. We don't have reliable evidence yet for stretch marks, aging skin, asthma, or HIV-related cholesterol problems.

Potassium and fiber effectiveness are not rated in our data for this product.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Potassium Iron Cocoa

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.

Potassium from food is fine, but supplements can cause dangerously high blood levels in people with kidney disease or those taking certain medications. Iron is generally well tolerated at recommended doses, but excess iron can be toxic—use it only if you actually need it.

The most common side effects from both are digestive: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating. Cocoa contains caffeine and related stimulants, and most chocolate products are high in sugar and calories.

In pregnancy, potassium from diet is safe, but use supplements only under your doctor's guidance. During breastfeeding, potassium in food is appropriate—check with your provider before using supplements.

Iron is likely safe in pregnancy (your doctor often recommends it) and generally acceptable while breastfeeding at appropriate doses. Cocoa in moderate amounts during breastfeeding is probably fine, but its caffeine does pass into breast milk, so watch your baby for fussiness.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Potassium Iron Cocoa

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 — Cocoa, Potassium, Iron.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; lithium; Parkinson's medications.
  • For scale: 725 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 whether you take any blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors or ARBs), potassium-sparing diuretics, or have kidney disease—potassium buildup is the top concern. Also flag any quinolone or tetracycline antibiotics, levothyroxine, or levodopa—iron will block their absorption and you'll need to space doses carefully.

If you take ephedrine, sleeping pills like pentobarbital, or blood pressure drugs, let your pharmacist know because of the caffeine in cocoa.

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 mix is worth considering if you have iron deficiency anemia and want the possible cardiovascular benefits of cocoa flavanols. But if you take blood pressure medications, diuretics, thyroid hormone, antibiotics, or have kidney disease, you must check with your pharmacist first—the potassium and iron could cause real problems.

Ask your pharmacist to review your medication list against this product before you buy it.

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

Assessment coverage: 3 of 4 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jun 25, 2018.

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 CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix, straight from the product label.

Brand Mars Symbioscience
Net contents 10 Packet(s); 2.4 Oz(s); 68 Gram(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jun 25, 2018
DSLD ID 178246
Product type Botanical With Nutrients
Supplement form Powder
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Kosher
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 CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix by Mars Symbioscience, 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:
6.8 Gram(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
6.8 Gram(s)
Servings per container
10
IngredientAmount% DV
Calories25 Calorie(s)--
Total Carbohydrates4 Gram(s)1%
Calories from Fat5 Calorie(s)--
Protein1 Gram(s)--
Potassium180 mg5%
Iron0.9 mg6%
Total Fat0.5 Gram(s)1%
Fiber1 Gram(s)5%
Cocoa extract1500 mg--
Cocoa Flavanols375 mg--

Other ingredients: Cocoa powder, Maltodextrin, Sunflower Lecithin

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

Promotes healthy blood flow from head to toe

When your blood is circulating properly, vital organs from your head to your toes get the oxygen and nutrients they need to help you feel and stay your best

10-0.24 oz (6.8g) packets

Supported by more than 20 years of scientific research

Formula

The cocoa flavanols in CocoaVia cocoa extract supplement help your cardiovascular system deliver oxygen and nutrients throughout your body.

25 calories per serving

OU

375 mg cocoa flavanols

30mg naturally-occurring caffeine per serving.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Enjoy delicious, dark chocolate CocoaVia supplement in milk, hot or chilled coffee, oatmeal, and yogurt.

Directions: Add 1 packet to a beverage or food of choice, such as 8 oz. of cold milk. Stir vigorously until well mixed.

Recommended Use: One packet daily.

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.

Brand IP Statement(s)

CocoaVia Brand Guarantee If for any reason CocoaVia supplement does not meet your expectations, simply call 1-877-842-0802 or go to www.CocoaVia.com/guarantee.

Cocoapro - Not all cocoa is created equal

Patent protected Trademarks Mars, Inc.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place

Formulation

No artificial colors or flavors. No added sugar.

Seals/Symbols

OU

General

ITEM #01078

FDA Statement of Identity

Daily Cocoa Extract Supplement

Precautions

Made in a facility that processes wheat, egg, soy, and dairy.

Warning: Do not use if pregnant or lactating. Consult a physician prior to use if you are taking any medication or undergoing medical treatment.

Not for use by children.

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

See for yourself

CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix by Mars Symbioscience label

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

CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix 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 CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix by Mars Symbioscience

These are the 5 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size6.8 Gram(s) Dosage formPowder Servings per container10 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

1 Gram(s) per serving

Potassium

Interacts with
62 drugs
180 mg per serving

Potassium is an essential mineral your body needs for nerve signals, muscle function, and a steady heartbeat, and most people get enough from a balanc...

Potassium monograph & interactions

Iron

Interacts with
80 drugs
0.9 mg per serving

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

Iron monograph & interactions

Fiber

1 Gram(s) per serving

Cocoa extract

Interacts with
661 drugs
1500 mg per serving

Cocoa is rich in plant compounds called flavanols that may modestly support blood vessel function and blood pressure, but most chocolate products are...

Cocoa extract monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Cocoa powder, Maltodextrin, Sunflower Lecithin. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix by Mars Symbioscience Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix?

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
725Drugs
699 Moderate 26 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Cocoa extract 661
Iron 80
Potassium 62

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix interact with 725 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

3 of the 5 ingredients in CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Cocoa extract Iron Potassium

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix 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.

Cocoa extract37 drug types · 661 drugs

Ace Inhibitors (Aceis)

Theoretically, taking cocoa with ACEIs might increase the risk of adverse effects.
Human research shows that dark chocolate can inhibit ACE. Additionally, prolonged angioedema in an elderly patient on an ACE inhibitor was precipitated with intake of diabetic chocolate.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Adenosine (Adenocard)

Theoretically, cocoa might decrease the vasodilatory effects of adenosine and interfere with its use prior to stress testing.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Caffeine is a competitive inhibitor of adenosine at the cellular level. However, caffeine does not seem to affect supplemental adenosine because high interstitial levels of adenosine overcome the antagonistic effects of caffeine. It is recommended that methylxanthines and methylxanthine-containing products be stopped 24 hours prior to pharmacological stress tests. However, methylxanthines appear more likely to interfere with dipyridamole than adenosine-induced stress testing.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Alcohol (Ethanol)

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Alcohol reduces caffeine metabolism. Concomitant use of alcohol can increase caffeine serum concentrations and the risk of caffeine adverse effects.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, cocoa may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Clinical research shows that intake of cocoa can inhibit platelet adhesion, aggregation, and activity and increase aspirin-induced bleeding time. For patients on dual antiplatelet therapy, cocoa may enhance the inhibitory effect of clopidogrel, but not aspirin, on platelet aggregation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking cocoa with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Clinical research shows that cocoa can modestly decrease blood pressure in hypertensive and normotensive patients.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Beta-Adrenergic Agonists

Theoretically, large amounts of cocoa might increase the cardiac inotropic effects of beta-agonists.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Theoretically, large amounts of caffeine might increase cardiac inotropic effects of beta-agonists. A case of atrial fibrillation associated with consumption of large quantities of chocolate in a patient with chronic albuterol inhalation abuse has also been reported.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Inhibitors

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Caffeine is metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2),. Theoretically, drugs that inhibit CYP1A2 may decrease the clearance rate of caffeine from cocoa and increase caffeine levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Dipyridamole (Persantine)

Theoretically, cocoa might decrease the vasodilatory effects of dipyridamole and interfere with its use prior to stress testing.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Caffeine may inhibit dipyridamole-induced vasodilation. It is recommended that methylxanthines and methylxanthine-containing products be stopped 24 hours prior to pharmacological stress tests. Methylxanthines appear more likely to interfere with dipyridamole than adenosine-induced stress testing.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Disulfiram (Antabuse)

Theoretically, disulfiram might increase the risk of adverse effects from caffeine.
Cocoa contains caffeine. In human research, disulfiram decreases the rate of caffeine clearance.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, using cocoa with diuretic drugs might increase the risk of hypokalemia.
Cocoa contains caffeine. In excessive amounts, caffeine can reduce potassium levels due to stimulation of the sodium-potassium pump. Diuretics can also cause lower potassium levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Ephedrine

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk for stimulant adverse effects.
Cocoa contains caffeine. There is evidence that using ephedrine with caffeine might increase the risk of serious life-threatening or debilitating adverse effects such as hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, seizures, and death.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, estrogens might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Estrogen inhibits caffeine metabolism.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Flutamide (Eulexin)

Theoretically, cocoa might increase the levels and adverse effects of flutamide.
Cocoa contains caffeine. In vitro evidence suggests that caffeine can inhibit the metabolism of flutamide.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Fluvoxamine (Luvox)

Theoretically, fluvoxamine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Fluvoxamine reduces caffeine metabolism.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Lithium

Theoretically, abrupt cocoa withdrawal might increase the levels and adverse effects of lithium.
Cocoa contains caffeine. There are two case reports of lithium tremor that worsened upon abrupt coffee withdrawal.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Maois)

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of a hypertensive crisis.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Large amounts of caffeine with MAOIs might precipitate a hypertensive crisis.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Nicotine

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of hypertension.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Concomitant use of caffeine and nicotine has been shown to have additive cardiovascular effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure. Blood pressure was increased by 10.8/12.4 mmHg when the agents were used concomitantly.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Pentobarbital (Nembutal)

Theoretically, cocoa might decrease the effects of pentobarbital.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Caffeine might negate the hypnotic effects of pentobarbital.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Theoretically, cocoa might reduce the effects of phenobarbital and increase the risk for convulsions.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Animal research suggests that caffeine can decrease the anticonvulsant activity of phenobarbital. The exact mechanism of this interaction is unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenylpropanolamine

Theoretically, phenylpropanolamine might increase the risk of hypertension, as well as the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Concomitant use of phenylpropanolamine and caffeine might cause an additive increase in blood pressure. Phenylpropanolamine also seems to increase caffeine serum levels.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Theoretically, cocoa might reduce the effects of phenytoin and increase the risk for convulsions.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Animal research suggests that caffeine can decrease the anticonvulsant activity of phenytoin. The effect does not seem to be related to the seizure threshold-lowering effects of caffeine. However, the exact mechanism of this interaction is unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Quinolone Antibiotics

Theoretically, quinolone antibiotics might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Quinolones (also referred to as fluoroquinolones) decrease caffeine clearance.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Riluzole (Rilutek)

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the levels and adverse effects of both caffeine and riluzole.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Caffeine and riluzole are both metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2, and concomitant use might reduce metabolism of one or both agents.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Stimulant Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use might increase stimulant adverse effects.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Concomitant use might increase the risk of stimulant adverse effects.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Theophylline

Theoretically, cocoa might increase the levels and adverse effects of theophylline.
Cocoa contains caffeine. Large amounts of caffeine might inhibit theophylline metabolism. Caffeine decreases theophylline clearance 23% to 29%.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cocoa extract full monograph & all 37 interactions

Iron13 drug types · 80 drugs

Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Bisphosphonates

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Denosumab (Prolia, Others)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Dolutegravir (Tivicay)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Integrase Inhibitors

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Levodopa

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Methyldopa (Aldomet)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Mycophenolate Mofetil (Cellcept)

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

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Quinolone Antibiotics

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Tetracycline Antibiotics

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Chloramphenicol

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

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Iron full monograph & interactions

Potassium3 drug types · 62 drugs

Ace Inhibitors (Aceis)

Using ACEIs with high doses of potassium increases the risk of hyperkalemia.
ACEIs block the actions of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and reduce potassium excretion. Concomitant use of these drugs with potassium supplements increases the risk of hyperkalemia. However, concomitant use of these drugs with moderate dietary potassium intake (about 3775-5200 mg daily) does not increase serum potassium levels.

Likelihood Likely Evidence C
Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (Arbs)

Using ARBs with high doses of potassium increases the risk of hyperkalemia.
ARBs block the actions of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and reduce potassium excretion. Concomitant use of these drugs with potassium supplements increases the risk of hyperkalemia. However, concomitant use of these drugs with moderate dietary potassium intake (about 3775-5200 mg daily) does not increase serum potassium levels.

Likelihood Likely Evidence C
Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Concomitant use increases the risk of hyperkalemia.
Using potassium-sparing diuretics with potassium supplements increases the risk of hyperkalemia.

Likelihood Likely Evidence C
Potassium full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix, from the product label.

Mars Symbioscience

See all Mars Symbioscience products
Name
Mars Symbioscience, A Division Of Mars, Incorporated
Street Address
20425 Seneca Meadows Pkwy
City
Germantown
State
MD
ZipCode
20876
Phone Number
1-877-842-0802
Web Address
www.CocoaVia.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix by Mars Symbioscience: Common Questions

Does CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix by Mars Symbioscience interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix has a known interaction with 725 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix contains 5 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.
Does this product have any fillers or other ingredients I should know about?
Yes, it has inactive ingredients: cocoa powder, maltodextrin, and sunflower lecithin. These are the typical binders and emulsifiers used to make the powder mix smoothly. If you're sensitive to any of these, check the label or ask us.
Is iron in this product safe if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Iron is likely safe in pregnancy—your prenatal doctor often recommends it—but follow their dose guidance. While breastfeeding, iron at appropriate doses is generally acceptable; check with your provider. Potassium from food is fine in both, but use supplements only under medical guidance.
Can I use this if I have kidney disease?
No, not without talking to your doctor first. This product contains potassium, and if your kidneys don't work well, potassium can build up to dangerous levels in your blood. Your doctor or pharmacist needs to assess whether it's safe for you.
How well does cocoa flavanol actually work for heart health?
Cocoa flavanols are possibly effective for cardiovascular disease based on the evidence we have, but the data isn't as strong as for iron treating anemia. Cocoa may help modestly with blood pressure, but it's not a replacement for prescribed heart medications.
What side effects should I expect from this powder?
Digestive complaints are most common: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, or constipation. Because it contains cocoa and caffeine, you might also get a headache or feel more alert. If you have a sensitive stomach, start with a small amount.
Why can't I take this with my antibiotic?
Iron binds to certain antibiotics (quinolones and tetracyclines) in your stomach and prevents your body from absorbing them fully. This makes the antibiotic less effective at fighting infection. Space iron at least 2 hours away from these antibiotics—your pharmacist can tell you the exact timing for yours.

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

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CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Potassium

Interacts with 62 drugs

Potassium is an essential mineral your body needs for nerve signals, muscle function, and a steady heartbeat, and most people get enough from a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. P...

Read the full Potassium monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Iron

Interacts with 80 drugs

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

Read the full Iron monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Cocoa

Interacts with 661 drugs

Cocoa is rich in plant compounds called flavanols that may modestly support blood vessel function and blood pressure, but most chocolate products are high in sugar, fat, and calories, which...

Read the full Cocoa monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

CocoaVia Brand Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Mix'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 203 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.

Potassium 12 references
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  2. Gennaro A. Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy. 19th ed. Lippincott: Williams & Wilkins, 1996.
  3. Whelton PK, He J, Cutler JA, et al. Effects of oral potassium on blood pressure. Meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials. JAMA 1997;277:1624-32. PubMed
  4. Phillips, C. O., Kashani, A., Ko, D. K., Francis, G., and Krumholz, H. M. Adverse effects of combination angiotensin II receptor blockers plus angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors for left ventricular dysfunction: a quantitative review of data from ra DOI
  5. Altieri, P. I., Herrero, C., Suero, R., and Ortiz, A. Bleeding duodenal ulcer in a patient taking slow-releasing potassium tablets. Bol.Asoc.Med P.R. 1977;69(8):276.
  6. Raf, L. E. Enteric-coated potassium chloride tablets and ulcer of the small intestine. Acta Chir Scand Suppl 1967;(374):1-87.
  7. Potassium chloride oral solution [package insert]. Allentown, PA: Lehigh Valley Technologies, Inc.; 2014.
  8. Potassium chloride injection [package insert]. Lake Forest, IL: Hospira Inc.; 2009.
  9. Patel RB, Tannenbaum S, Viana-Tejedor A, et al. Serum potassium levels, cardiac arrhythmias, and mortality following non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction or unstable angina: insights from MERLIN-TIMI 36. Eur Heart J Acute Cardiovasc Care 2017 Feb;6(1):1 PubMed
  10. Malta D, Arcand J, Ravindran A, Floras V, Allard JP, Newton GE. Adequate intake of potassium does not cause hyperkalemia in hypertensive individuals taking medications that antagonize the renin angiotensin aldosterone system. Am J Clin Nutr 2016 Oct;104(4 PubMed
  11. Keskin M, Kaya A, Tatlisu MA, et al. The effect of serum potassium level on in-hospital and long-term mortality in ST elevation myocardial infarction. Int J cardiol. 2016 Oct 15;221:505-10.
  12. Stallings VA, Harrison M, Oria M; Committee to Review the Dietary Reference Intakes for Sodium and Potassium, Food and Nutrition Board, Health and Medicine Division, National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Washington (DC): National Acad

See these in context on the Potassium monograph →

Iron 72 references
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  2. Bruner AB, Joffe A, Duggan AK, et al. Randomized study of cognitive effects of iron supplementation in non- anaemic iron-deficient adolescent girls. Lancet 1996;348:992-6.
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  5. Lund EK, Wharf SG, Fairweather-Tait SJ, Johnson IT. Oral ferrous sulfate supplements increase the free radical-generating capacity of feces from healthy volunteers. Am J Clin Nutr 1999;69:250-5.
  6. Rehman A, Collis CS, Yang M, et al. The effects of iron and vitamin C co-supplementation on oxidative damage to DNA in healthy volunteers. Biochem Biophys Res Comm 1998;246:293-8. PubMed
  7. Klipstein-Grobusch K, Grobbee DE, den Breeijen JH, et al. Dietary iron and risk of myocardial infarction in the Rotterdam Study. Am J Epidemiol 1999;149:421-8. PubMed
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  11. Campbell N, Paddock V, Sundaram R. Alteration of methyldopa absorption, metabolism, and blood pressure control by ferrous sulfate and ferrous gluconate. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1988;43:381-6..
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  23. Morii M., Ueno K., Ogawa A., Kato R., Yoshimura H., Wada K., Hashimoto H., Takada M., Tanaka K., Nakatani T., Shibakawa M. Impairment of mycophenolate mofetil absorption by iron ion. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2000;68(6):613-616. PubMed
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See these in context on the Iron monograph →

Cocoa 119 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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