Codonopsis Ingredients & Drug Interactions
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Codonopsis 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
Codonopsis is a dietary supplement by Planetary Herbals with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for bone health and osteoporosis prevention, dietary calcium deficiency, heartburn relief (calcium carbonate antacids).Based on those ingredients, 374 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Codonopsis, Calcium. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Codonopsis by Planetary Herbals
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AI summaries are generated from our interaction database for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Codonopsis by Planetary Herbals
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Full disclosure
This product contains two active ingredients: calcium and codonopsis root. Calcium is a mineral essential for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling; this product supplies it in a form your body can absorb.
Codonopsis is a traditional herbal root used in Asian medicine, though the evidence for its specific uses in modern medicine is limited. The product also contains several inactive ingredients — dibasic calcium phosphate, stearic acid, silica, and modified cellulose gum — which are fillers and binders that help form and stabilize the tablet.
Does it work?
Not established
Calcium in this product is effective for preventing and treating weak bones (osteoporosis), low blood calcium (hypocalcemia), high potassium (hyperkalemia), kidney failure, and upset stomach (dyspepsia). For codonopsis root, the evidence we hold is insufficient to rate its effectiveness for asthma, cancer, respiratory infections, upset stomach, or high cholesterol.
That doesn't mean it doesn't work — it means rigorous clinical studies backing these uses aren't yet established in our data.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Calcium is generally well tolerated when taken at the recommended dose, though high doses can cause problems. The most common side effects are belching, constipation, diarrhea, gas, and stomach upset.
Rare concerns include kidney stones and a serious skin condition called calciphylaxis. Some research suggests very high calcium intake — over 1,500–2,000 mg daily — may be linked to increased prostate cancer risk and possibly a higher risk of heart disease, though this remains debated.
Codonopsis is generally considered well tolerated in traditional food-like amounts, but high-quality safety data are limited. Very large doses (30–60 grams) may cause chest pain, irregular heartbeat, throat pain, or loss of voice.
Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis and hives are rare but have been reported. The data advises against codonopsis in pregnancy.
Safety while breastfeeding is unknown — talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether it's right for you.
Meds to double-check
Major interaction found
Before taking this product, check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take HIV integrase inhibitors (dolutegravir, elvitegravir, raltegravir), an antibiotic called ceftriaxone, levothyroxine (a thyroid medication), sotalol (a heart rhythm drug), calcipotriene (a psoriasis treatment), diltiazem (a blood pressure medication), blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs, abiraterone (a prostate cancer drug), or diabetes medications. Calcium and codonopsis can affect how these work or increase the risk of side effects.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
This product is mainly a calcium supplement, effective for bone health and related conditions. If you take HIV medications, heart medications, an antibiotic like ceftriaxone, a thyroid medication, diabetes drugs, or blood thinners, you'll need to check your exact medications before using it — calcium interferes with absorption of many drugs.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any prescriptions.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 2 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Nov 20, 2017.
This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed
General information
Key facts about Codonopsis, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Planetary Herbals |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 021078105251 |
| Net contents | 60 Tablet(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Nov 20, 2017 |
| DSLD ID | 80776 |
| Product type | Botanical With Nutrients |
| Supplement form | Tablet Or Pill |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years) |
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 Codonopsis by Planetary Herbals, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Calcium | 69 mg | 6% |
| Codonopsis | 1.5 Gram(s) | -- |
Other ingredients: Dibasic Calcium Phosphate, Stearic Acid, Silica, modified Cellulose Gum
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
General Statements
Chinese herbal energizer
750 mg
Approved by Michael Tierra L.Ac
Codonopsis is one of the most highly regarded herbal tonifiers of Chinese herbalism and has properties similar to ginseng. Research suggests that codonopsis promotes energy and endurance as well as supports immune resistance.
FDA Statement of Identity
Herbal Supplement
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested Use: 2 tablets twice daily between meals.
Precautions
Note: If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your health care professional before using this product.
Do not use if either tamper-evident seal is broken or missing.
Keep out of the reach of children.
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)
Planetary Herbals, LLC
General
PF0525 REV G121
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Codonopsis by Planetary Herbals label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.
View the full label (PDF)The Ingredients in Codonopsis by Planetary Herbals
These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size2 Tablet(s) Dosage formTablet Or Pill 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.
Calcium
Interacts with168 drugs
Calcium is an essential mineral your body needs for strong bones, nerve signaling, and muscle function, and supplements can help fill gaps when diet f...
Calcium monograph & interactionsCodonopsis
Interacts with211 drugs
Codonopsis (often called 'dang shen') is a root long used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a gentle energy and digestive tonic, frequently as a mild...
Codonopsis monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Dibasic Calcium Phosphate, Stearic Acid, Silica, Modified Cellulose Gum. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Codonopsis by Planetary Herbals Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Codonopsis by Planetary Herbals contains calcium and codonopsis root, both of which interact with medications.
Calcium carries the most serious interactions — it can significantly reduce blood levels of two HIV integrase inhibitors, dolutegravir (Tivicay) and elvitegravir (Vitekta), by interfering with how your body absorbs them. It also poses a major risk if you're receiving intravenous ceftriaxone (Rocephin), an antibiotic, because the two can form harmful crystals in your lungs and kidneys.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Calcium also moderately interacts with raltegravir (Isentress), another HIV medication; levothyroxine (Synthroid), used for an underactive thyroid; sotalol (Betapace), a heart rhythm medication; calcipotriene (Dovonex), a psoriasis treatment; and diltiazem (Cardizem), a blood pressure and heart medication. Taking calcium at least 2–6 hours away from these drugs can reduce the effect.
Codonopsis root adds moderate interactions with blood thinners (anticoagulants) and antiplatelet drugs, where it may increase bleeding risk; abiraterone (Zytiga), a prostate cancer drug, where it may reduce drug levels; and diabetes medications, where it may increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
Altogether, these interactions span 374 individual medications. Use the search tool below to check your exact prescriptions before starting this product.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Codonopsis?
Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.
Go to the checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in Codonopsis interact with 374 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 2 ingredients in Codonopsis interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Codonopsis Calcium
EnoxaparinLovenox
How Enoxaparin interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis liquor might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Enoxaparin interactionEptifibatideIntegrilin
How Eptifibatide interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis liquor might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Eptifibatide interactionEravacyclineXerava
How Eravacycline interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumTetracycline Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics.
Read the full Calcium + Eravacycline interactionErtugliflozinSteglatro
How Ertugliflozin interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Ertugliflozin interactionErtugliflozin, Metformin HydrochlorideSegluromet
How Ertugliflozin, Metformin Hydrochloride interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Ertugliflozin, Metformin Hydrochloride interactionEsomeprazole, NaproxenVimovo
How Esomeprazole, Naproxen interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis liquor might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Esomeprazole, Naproxen interactionEtidronate DisodiumDidrocal, Didronel
How Etidronate Disodium interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumBisphosphonates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium reduces the absorption of bisphosphonates.
Read the full Calcium + Etidronate Disodium interactionExenatideBydureon, Byetta
How Exenatide interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Exenatide interactionExenatide SyntheticBydureon BCISE
How Exenatide Synthetic interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Exenatide Synthetic interactionFamotidine, IbuprofenDuexis
How Famotidine, Ibuprofen interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis liquor might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Famotidine, Ibuprofen interactionFinafloxacinXtoro
How Finafloxacin interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumQuinolone Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of quinolone antibiotics.
Read the full Calcium + Finafloxacin interactionFish Oil TriglyceridesOmegaven
How Fish Oil Triglycerides interacts with Codonopsis — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity.
Read the full Calcium + Fish Oil Triglycerides interactionCodonopsisAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis liquor might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Fish Oil Triglycerides interactionFondaparinuxArixtra
How Fondaparinux interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis liquor might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Fondaparinux interactionFosinopril, HydrochlorothiazideMonopril HCT
How Fosinopril, Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumThiazide Diuretics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Read the full Calcium + Fosinopril, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionGatifloxacinTequin, Tequin Injection
How Gatifloxacin interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumQuinolone Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of quinolone antibiotics.
Read the full Calcium + Gatifloxacin interactionGemifloxacinFactive
How Gemifloxacin interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumQuinolone Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of quinolone antibiotics.
Read the full Calcium + Gemifloxacin interactionGliclazideDiamicron
How Gliclazide interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Gliclazide interactionGlimepirideAmaryl
How Glimepiride interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Glimepiride interactionGlipizideGlucotrol, Glucotrol XL
How Glipizide interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Glipizide interactionGlipizide, MetforminMetaglip
How Glipizide, Metformin interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Glipizide, Metformin interactionGlucagonBaqsimi, Glucagon
How Glucagon interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Glucagon interactionGlucoseIV Glucose
How Glucose interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Glucose interactionGlyburideAlbert Glyburide, Diabeta, Glycron, Glynase, Glynase PresTab, Micronase +1 more
How Glyburide interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Glyburide interactionGlyburide, MetforminGlucovance
How Glyburide, Metformin interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Glyburide, Metformin interactionGrepafloxacinRaxar
How Grepafloxacin interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumQuinolone Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of quinolone antibiotics.
Read the full Calcium + Grepafloxacin interactionGuanethidine, HydrochlorothiazideEsimil
How Guanethidine, Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumThiazide Diuretics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Read the full Calcium + Guanethidine, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionHeparinHeparin
How Heparin interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CodonopsisAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, codonopsis liquor might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Read the full Codonopsis + Heparin interactionHydralazine, HydrochlorothiazideApresazide, Apresoline-Esidrix
How Hydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumThiazide Diuretics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Read the full Calcium + Hydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionHydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide, ReserpineSer-Ap-Es, Unipres, Uniserp
How Hydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide, Reserpine interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumThiazide Diuretics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Read the full Calcium + Hydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide, Reserpine interactionHydrochlorothiazideAquazide, Aquazide H, Esidrix, HCTZ, Hydro, Hydro-D +3 more
How Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with Codonopsis — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
CalciumThiazide Diuretics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Read the full Calcium + Hydrochlorothiazide interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Codonopsis 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.
Codonopsis
Abiraterone (Zytiga)
Theoretically, taking codonopsis root with abiraterone might reduce the levels and therapeutic effects of abiraterone.
Animal research in rats shows that intragastric administration of codonopsis root along with abiraterone every 2 days for 2 weeks seems to increase the clearance of abiraterone and reduce the overall exposure and time to maximum concentration. This interaction has not been reported in humans.
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Theoretically, codonopsis liquor might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
A small clinical study in adults with coronary heart disease shows that consuming Codonopsis pilosula liquor for 4 weeks inhibits platelet aggregation but does not affect tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) or plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI).
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Laboratory and animal research suggest that codonopsis has antidiabetic effects.
Calcium
Ceftriaxone (Rocephin)
Co-administration of intravenous calcium and ceftriaxone can result in precipitation of a ceftriaxone-calcium salt in the lungs and kidneys.
Avoid administering intravenous calcium in any form, such as parenteral nutrition or Lactated Ringers, within 48 hours of intravenous ceftriaxone. Case reports in neonates show that administering intravenous ceftriaxone and calcium can result in precipitation of a ceftriaxone-calcium salt in the lungs and kidneys. In several cases, neonates have died as a result of this interaction. So far there are no reports in adults; however, there is still concern that this interaction might occur in adults.
Dolutegravir (Tivicay)
Calcium seems to reduce levels of dolutegravir.
Advise patients to take dolutegravir either 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking calcium supplements. Pharmacokinetic research suggests that taking calcium carbonate 1200 mg concomitantly with dolutegravir 50 mg reduces plasma levels of dolutegravir by almost 40%. Calcium appears to decrease levels of dolutegravir through chelation.
Elvitegravir (Vitekta)
Calcium seems to reduce levels of elvitegravir.
Advise patients to take elvitegravir either 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking calcium supplements. Pharmacokinetic research suggests that taking calcium along with elvitegravir can reduce blood levels of elvitegravir through chelation.
Aluminum
Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity. Other types of calcium do not increase aluminum absorption.
Calcium citrate can increase the absorption of aluminum when taken with aluminum hydroxide. The increase in aluminum levels may become toxic, particularly in individuals with kidney disease. However, the effect of calcium citrate on aluminum absorption is due to the citrate anion rather than calcium cation. Calcium acetate does not appear to increase aluminum absorption.
Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)
Calcium 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 calcium 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, calcium containing products.
Bisphosphonates
Calcium reduces the absorption of bisphosphonates.
Advise patients to take bisphosphonates at least 30 minutes before calcium, but preferably at a different time of day. Calcium supplements decrease absorption of bisphosphonates.
Calcipotriene (Dovonex)
Taking calcipotriene with calcium might increase the risk for hypercalcemia.
Calcipotriene is a vitamin D analog used topically for psoriasis. It can be absorbed in sufficient amounts to cause systemic effects, including hypercalcemia. Theoretically, combining calcipotriene with calcium supplements might increase the risk of hypercalcemia.
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Using intravenous calcium with digoxin might increase the risk of fatal cardiac arrhythmias.
Hypercalcemia increases the risk of fatal cardiac arrhythmias with digoxin. However, one retrospective analysis of clinical data suggests that intravenous calcium does not increase the risk of dysrhythmias or mortality in patients receiving digoxin.
Diltiazem (Cardizem, Others)
Theoretically, calcium may reduce the therapeutic effects of diltiazem.
Hypercalcemia can reduce the effectiveness of verapamil in atrial fibrillation. Theoretically, calcium might increase this risk of hypercalcemia and reduce the effectiveness of diltiazem.
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption and effectiveness of levothyroxine.
Advise patients to take levothyroxine and calcium supplements at least 4 hours apart. Calcium reduces levothyroxine absorption, probably by forming insoluble complexes. Calcium carbonate supplements reduce effectiveness of levothyroxine in patients with hypothyroidism.
Lithium
Theoretically, concomitant use of calcium and lithium may increase this risk of hypercalcemia.
Clinical research suggests that long-term use of lithium may cause hypercalcemia in 10% to 60% of patients. Theoretically, concomitant use of lithium and calcium supplements may further increase this risk.
Quinolone Antibiotics
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of quinolone antibiotics.
Advise patients to take oral quinolones at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium supplements or calcium-fortified foods. Taking calcium at the same time as oral quinolones can reduce quinolone absorption. Calcium binds to quinolones in the gut.
Raltegravir (Isentress)
Calcium may reduce levels of raltegravir.
Pharmacokinetic research shows that taking a single dose of calcium carbonate 3000 mg along with raltegravir 400 mg twice daily modestly decreases the mean area under the curve of raltegravir, but the decrease does not necessitate a dose adjustment of raltegravir. However, a case of elevated HIV-1 RNA levels and documented resistance to raltegravir has been reported for a patient taking calcium carbonate 1 gram three times daily plus vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) 400 IU three times daily in combination with raltegravir 400 mg twice daily for 11 months. It is thought that calcium reduced raltegravir levels by chelation, leading to treatment failure.
Sotalol (Betapace)
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of sotalol.
Advise patients to separate doses by at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium. Calcium appears to reduce the absorption of sotalol, probably by forming insoluble complexes.
Tetracycline Antibiotics
Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics.
Advise patients to take oral tetracyclines at least 2 hours before, or 4-6 hours after calcium supplements. Taking calcium at the same time as oral tetracyclines can reduce tetracycline absorption. Calcium binds to tetracyclines in the gut.
Thiazide Diuretics
Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Thiazides reduce calcium excretion by the kidneys. Using thiazides along with moderately large amounts of calcium carbonate increases the risk of milk-alkali syndrome (hypercalcemia, metabolic alkalosis, renal failure). Patients may need to have their serum calcium levels and/or parathyroid function monitored regularly.
Verapamil (Calan, Others)
Theoretically, calcium may reduce the therapeutic effects of verapamil.
Hypercalcemia can reduce the effectiveness of verapamil in atrial fibrillation. Theoretically, use of calcium supplements may increase this risk of hypercalcemia and reduce the effectiveness of verapamil.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Intravenous calcium may decrease the effects of calcium channel blockers; oral calcium is unlikely to have this effect.
Intravenous calcium is used to decrease the effects of calcium channel blockers in the management of overdose. Intravenous calcium gluconate has been used before intravenous verapamil (Isoptin) to prevent or reduce the hypotensive effects without affecting the antiarrhythmic effects. But there is no evidence that dietary or supplemental calcium when taken orally interacts with calcium channel blockers.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Codonopsis, from the product label.
Planetary Herbals
See all Planetary Herbals products- Name
- Planetary Herbals, LLC
- Street Address
- P.O. Box 1760
- City
- Soquel
- State
- CA
- ZipCode
- 95073
- Web Address
- www.planetaryherbals.com
Codonopsis by Planetary Herbals: Common Questions
Does Codonopsis by Planetary Herbals interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
What is codonopsis root, and why is it in this product?
Can I take this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
What are the common side effects of calcium?
Are there any allergic reactions I should know about?
Can very large doses cause problems?
Does this product really work for osteoporosis?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Codonopsis is safe with your meds?
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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind Codonopsis’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Calcium
Interacts with 168 drugsCalcium is an essential mineral your body needs for strong bones, nerve signaling, and muscle function, and supplements can help fill gaps when diet falls short. Most people do best getting...
Read the full Calcium monograph → Herb & supplement monographCodonopsis
Interacts with 211 drugsCodonopsis (often called 'dang shen') is a root long used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a gentle energy and digestive tonic, frequently as a milder substitute for ginseng. Human researc...
Read the full Codonopsis monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Codonopsis's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.
The 67 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.
Calcium 62 references
- Shils M, Olson A, Shike M. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lea and Febiger, 1994.
- Hernandez-Avila M, Gonzalez-Cossio T, Hernandez-Avila JE, et al. Dietary calcium supplements to lower blood lead levels in lactating women: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Epidemiology 2003;14:206-12.. PubMed
- Thys-Jacobs S, Ceccarelli S, Bierman A, et al. Calcium supplementation in premenstrual syndrome: a randomized crossover trial. J Gen Intern Med 1989;4:183-9. PubMed
- Maton PN, Burton ME. Antacids revisited: a review of their clinical pharmacology and recommended therapeutic use. Drugs 1999;57:855-70.
- Clemens JD, Feinstein AR. Calcium carbonate and constipation: a historical review of medical mythopoeia. Gastroenterology 1977;72:957-61. DOI
- Saunders D, Sillery J, Chapman R. Effect of calcium carbonate and aluminum hydroxide on human intestinal function. Dig Dis Sci 1988;33:409-13. PubMed
- Friedman PA, Bushinsky DA. Diuretic effects on calcium metabolism. Semin Nephrol 1999;19:551-6.
- Koo WK, Walters JC, Esterlitz J, et al. Maternal calcium supplementation and fetal bone mineralization. Obstet Gynecol 1999;94:577-82. DOI
- Raman L, Rajalakshmi K, Krishnamachari KAVR, et al. Effect of calcium supplementation to undernourished mothers during pregnancy on the bone density of the neonates. Am J Clin Nutr 1978; 31:466-9. DOI
- Murry JJ, Healy MD. Drug-mineral interactions: a new responsibility for the hospital dietician. J Am Diet Assoc 1991;91:66-73.
- Chan JM, Giovannucci E, Andersson SO, et al. Dairy products, calcium, phosphorous, vitamin D, and risk of prostate cancer. Cancer Causes Control 1998;9:559-66.
- Butner LE, Fulco PP, Feldman G, et al. Calcium carbonate-induced hypothyroidism. Ann Intern Med 2000:132:595. PubMed
- Schneyer CR. Calcium carbonate and reduction of levothyroxine efficacy. JAMA 1998;279:750. PubMed
- Moser LR, Smythe MA, Tisdale JE. The use of calcium salts in the prevention and management of verapamil-induced hypotension. Ann Pharmacother 2000;34:622-9. PubMed
- Singh N, Singh PN, Hershman JM. Effect of calcium carbonate on the absorption of levothyroxine. JAMA 2000;283:2822-5. PubMed
- Kahela P, Anttila M, Tikkanen R, Sundquist H. Effect of food, food constituents and fluid volume on the bioavailability of sotalol. Acta Pharmacol Toxicol (Copenh) 1979;44:7-12.. PubMed
- Pletz MW, Petzold P, Allen A, et al. Effect of calcium carbonate on bioavailability of orally administered gemifloxacin. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2003;47:2158-60.. PubMed
- Bar-Or D, Yoel G. Calcium and calciferol antagonize effect of verapamil in atrial fibrillation. Br Med J 1981;282:1585-6.
- Decktor DL, Robinson M, Maton PN, et al. Effects of aluminum/magnesium hydroxide and calcium carbonate on esophageal and gastric pH in subjects with heartburn. Am J Ther 1995;2:546-52. PubMed
- Simoneau G. Absence of rebound effect with calcium carbonate. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 1996;21:351-7. PubMed
- Peters ML, Leonard M, Licata AA. Role of alendronate and risedronate in preventing and treating osteoporosis. Cleve Clin J Med 2001;68:945-51. PubMed
- Bourke JF, Mumford R, Whittaker P, et al. The effects of topical calcipotriol on systemic calcium homeostasis in patients with chronic plaque psoriasis. J Am Acad Dermatol 1997;37:929-34.
- Gueguen L, Pointillart A. The bioavailability of dietary calcium. J Am Coll Nutr 2000;19:119s-136s. PubMed
- Vella A, Gerber TC, Hayes DL, Reeder GS. Digoxin, hypercalcaemia, and cardiac conduction. Postgrad Med J 1999;75:554-6. PubMed
- Bania TC, Blaufeux B, Hughes S, et al. Calcium and digoxin vs. calcium alone for severe verapamil toxicity. Acad Emerg Med 2000;7:1089-96. PubMed
- Tseng M, Breslow RA, Graubard BI, Ziegler RG. Dairy, calcium, and vitamin D intakes and prostate cancer risk in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Epidemiologic Follow-up Study cohort. Am J Clin Nutr 2005;81:1147-54. PubMed
- Weingarten MA, Zalmanovici A, Yaphe J. Dietary calcium supplementation for preventing colorectal cancer and adenomatous polyps. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2004;(1):CD003548. PubMed
- Tavani A, Bertuccio P, Bosetti C, et al. Dietary intake of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus and the risk of prostate cancer. Eur Urol 2005;48:27-33. PubMed
- Giovannucci E, Liu Y, Stampfer MJ, Willett WC. A prospective study of calcium intake and incident and fatal prostate cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15:203-10. PubMed
- Rocephin (ceftriaxone) and calcium interaction. Pharmacist's Letter / Prescriber's Letter 2007;23(10):231005.
- Bolland MJ, Barber PA, Doughty RN, et al. Vascular events in healthy older women receiving calcium supplementation: randomised control trial. BMJ 2008;336:262-6.
- Bolland MJ, Avenell A, Baron JA, et al. Effect of calcium supplements on risk of myocardial infarction and cardiovascular events: meta-analysis. BMJ 2010;341:c3691. PubMed
- Calcium supplementation and vascular events. Pharmacist's Letter / Prescriber's Letter 2008;24(3):240306.
- Dietary reference intakes for calcium and vitamin D. Institute of Medicine, November 30, 2010. Available at: http://www.iom.edu/~/media/Files/Report%20Files/2010/Dietary-Reference-Intakes-for-Calcium-and-Vitamin-D/Vitamin%20D%20and%20Calcium%202010%20Repo
- Coburn JW, Mischel MG, Goodman WG, et al. Calcium citrate markedly enhances aluminum absorption from aluminum hydroxide. Am J Kidney Dis. 1991;17(6):708-11. PubMed
- Bradley JS, Wassel RT, Lee L, et al. Intravenous ceftriaxone and calcium in the neonate: assessing the risk for cardiopulmonary adverse events. Pediatrics. 2009;123(4):e609-13. PubMed
- Kays MB, Overholser BR, Mueller BA, et al. Effects of sevelamer hydrochloride and calcium acetate on the oral bioavailability of ciprofloxacin. Am J Kidney Dis. 2003;42(6):1253-9. PubMed
- Neuhofel, A. L., Wilton, J. H., Victory, J. M., Hejmanowsk, L. G., and Amsden, G. W. Lack of bioequivalence of ciprofloxacin when administered with calcium-fortified orange juice: a new twist on an old interaction. J Clin Pharmacol. 2002;42(4):461-466. DOI
- Dickinson, H. O., Nicolson, D. J., Cook, J. V., Campbell, F., Beyer, F. R., Ford, G. A., and Mason, J. Calcium supplementation for the management of primary hypertension in adults. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2006;(2):CD004639. PubMed
- Jones, B. J. and Twomey, P. J. Requesting patterns for serum calcium concentration in patients on long-term lithium therapy. Int J Clin Pract. 2009;63(1):170-172. PubMed
- Levine, M., Nikkanen, H., and Pallin, D. J. The effects of intravenous calcium in patients with digoxin toxicity. J Emerg.Med. 2011;40(1):41-46. PubMed
- Castelo-Branco, C., Ciria-Recasens, M., Cancelo-Hidalgo, M. J., Palacios, S., Haya-Palazuelos, J., Carbonell-Abello, J., Blanch-Rubio, J., Martinez-Zapata, M. J., Manasanch, J., and Perez-Edo, L. Efficacy of ossein-hydroxyapatite complex compared with ca
- Li K, Kaaks R, Linseisen J, Rohrmann S. Associations of dietary calcium intake and calcium supplementation with myocardial infarction and stroke risk and overall cardiovascular mortality in the Heidelberg cohort of the European Prospective Investigation i
- Chung M, Tang AM, Fu Z. Calcium Intake and Cardiovascular Disease Risk: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Ann Intern Med. 2016 Oct 25. PubMed
- Nolan CR, Califano JR, Butzin CA. Influence of calcium acetate or calcium citrate on intestinal aluminum absorption. Kidney Int. 1990;38(5):937-41. PubMed
- Lewis JR, Radavelli-Bagatini S, Rejnmark L, et al. The effects of calcium supplementation on verified coronary heart disease hospitalization and death in postmenopausal women: a collaborative meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Bone Miner Res PubMed
- Jalloh MA, Gregory PJ, Hein D, et al. Dietary supplement interactions with antiretrovirals: a systematic review. Int J STD AIDS. 2017 Jan;28(1):4-15. PubMed
- Lappe J, Watson P, Travers-Gustafson D, Recker R, Garland C, Gorham E, Baggerly K, McDonnell SL. Effect of Vitamin D and Calcium Supplementation on Cancer Incidence in Older Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2017 Mar 28;317(12):1234-1243. PubMed
- Grove ML, Cook D. Calcium and heart attacks. Doesn't apply to most calcium prescriptions. BMJ. 2010;341:c5003. PubMed
- Insentress [package insert]. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp.; 2014.
- Roberts JL, Kiser JJ, Hindman JT, Meditz AL. Virologic failure with a raltegravir-containing antiretroviral regimen and concomitant calcium administration. Pharmacotherapy 2011;31(10):298e-302e. DOI
- Vitekta [package insert]. Foster City, CA: Gilead Sciences, Inc.; 2014.
- Storan ER, O'Gorman SM, Murphy A, Laing M. Case Report of Calciphylaxis Secondary to Calcium and Vitamin D<sub>3</sub> Supplementation. J Cutan Med Surg. 2017;21(2):162-163. DOI
- Jenkins DJA, Spence JD, Giovannucci EL, et al. Supplemental vitamins and minerals for CVD prevention and treatment. J Am Coll Cardiol 2018;71(22):2570-84. PubMed
- Borkenhagen JF, Connor EL, Stafstrom CE. Neonatal hypocalcemic seizures due to excessive maternal calcium ingestion. Pediatr Neurol 2013;48(6):469-71. PubMed
- WHO recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2016 (http://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/publications/maternal_perinatal_health/ anc-positive-pregnancy-experience/en/).
- Aune D, Navarro Rosenblatt DA, Chan DS, et al. Dairy products, calcium, and prostate cancer risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies. Am J Clin Nutr. 2015;101(1):87-117. PubMed
- Lan T, Park Y, Colditz GA, et al. Adolescent dairy product and calcium intake in relation to later prostate cancer risk and mortality in the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study. Cancer Causes Control. 2020;31(10):891-904. PubMed
- Zhang Y, Li Y, Liu J, et al. Association of Vitamin D or Calcium Supplementation with Cardiovascular Outcomes and Mortality: A Meta-Analysis with Trial Sequential Analysis. J Nutr Health Aging 2021;25(2):263-270. PubMed
- Myung SK, Kim HB, Lee YJ, Choi YJ, Oh SW. Calcium Supplements and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials. Nutrients 2021;13(2):368. PubMed
- Hetaimish B. Neonatal Calcinosis Cutis After Treatment of Hypocalcemia with Calcium Gluconate: A Report of 2 Cases. Am J Case Rep 2024;25:e943397. PubMed
- US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Biktarvy Prescribing Information. October 2024. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2024/210251Orig1s020lbl.pdf. Accessed July 16, 2025.
Codonopsis 5 references
- McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
- Xu, X., Wang, S. R., and Lin, Q. [Clinical and experimental study on codonopsis pilosula oral liquor in treating coronary heart disease with blood stasis]. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. 1995;15(7):398-400.
- Hur GY, Choi GS, Park HJ, Ye YM, Park HS. Anaphylactic shock induced by Codonopsis lanceolata, traditional Chinese medicine in a patient with allergic rhinitis. Allergy. 2008;63(10):1406-7.
- Zhang ZB, Ip SP, Cho WCS, et al. Herb-drug interactions between androgenic Chinese herbal medicines and androgen receptor antagonist on tumor growth: Studies on two xenograft prostate cancer animal models. Phytother Res. 2021.
- Jia W, Bi Q, Jiang S, et al. Hypoglycemic activity of Codonopsis pilosula (Franch.) Nannf. in vitro and in vivo and its chemical composition identification by UPLC-Triple-TOF-MS/MS. Food Funct 2022;13(5):2456-2464.
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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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