Cortex Ingredients & Drug Interactions
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Cortex 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
Cortex is a dietary supplement by Surrogate Labs with 4 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for memory and thinking, brain health and aging, stroke recovery support.Based on those ingredients, 1,142 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Bacopa monnieri 20% extract, Artichoke extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Cortex by Surrogate Labs
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Cortex by Surrogate Labs — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.
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 Cortex by Surrogate Labs
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
Low disclosure
Cortex contains four active ingredients. CDP Choline (also known as citicoline) is a compound your body uses to support brain cell structure and signaling.
Artichoke extract comes from the leaf of the artichoke plant and has been studied for digestive and cholesterol health. Bacopa monnieri is a traditional herb studied for memory and cognitive function.
Uridine monophosphate is a building block for nucleotides, which cells use to make DNA and RNA. The capsule itself and L-leucine are inactive ingredients.
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
The evidence for these ingredients is mixed. CDP Choline is possibly effective for age-related cognitive decline and glaucoma, but the data doesn't support its use for stroke recovery, and there's not enough evidence to know if it helps with Alzheimer disease, traumatic brain injury, or cardiac arrest.
Artichoke extract is possibly effective for high cholesterol and indigestion, though evidence is limited for fatty liver disease. Bacopa monnieri has insufficient evidence to support its use for Alzheimer disease, sexual dysfunction, ADHD, back pain, or cognitive function — the research simply hasn't established whether it works for these uses.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
CDP Choline and bacopa are generally well tolerated overall, though long-term safety data are limited for both. Artichoke extract is also generally well tolerated when used short-term, but quality and dose vary by product.
Common side effects from these ingredients include abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, headache, and in the case of bacopa, occasionally drowsiness. Artichoke can rarely trigger a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) in people sensitive to inulin, and those allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, daisies, or related plants may be at higher risk of an allergic reaction.
There isn't enough safety data for any of these ingredients during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so the safety data advises against use if you're pregnant or nursing — talk with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before you take Cortex, check with your doctor or pharmacist if you're on blood pressure medication, antidiabetes drugs, antithyroid or thyroid replacement hormone, anticholinergic drugs (like those for overactive bladder), or any medication metabolized by your liver enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2B6, or CYP3A4) — this includes a very wide range of common prescriptions. One ingredient also has a documented interaction with cevimeline (Evoxac).
We could not check uridine monophosphate for interactions.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Cortex might interest you if you're looking to support brain health and you don't take blood pressure medication, diabetes medication, thyroid hormone, or drugs that depend on liver enzymes to work. If you take any prescription medications, check them against the interactions listed here before you start — especially if you're on a blood pressure or diabetes med.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether this product is right for you.
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 Jul 27, 2021.
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 Cortex, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Surrogate Labs |
|---|---|
| Net contents | 30 Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Jul 27, 2021 |
| DSLD ID | 255342 |
| Product type | Other Combinations |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), Women (not pregnant or lactating) |
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 Cortex by Surrogate Labs, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| CDP Choline | 0 NP | -- |
| Uridine Monophosphate | 0 NP | -- |
| Artichoke extract | 0 NP | -- |
| WorkHorse blend | 610 mg | -- |
| Bacopa monnieri 20% extract | 0 NP | -- |
Other ingredients: Vegetable Capsule, L-Leucine
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.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Directions: As a dietary supplement, for enhanced cognitive performance, take 1 serving of 2 capsules on an empty stomach.
Improper use of this product will not improve results. Use only as directed.
Precautions
Do not take more than 3 capsules per day.
Warnings: Not intended for persons under the age of 18.
Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Consult a healthcare professional prior to consumption if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking any prescription medication. Do not consume with any prescription stimulants.
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.
Formulation
Cortex Nootropic Generation 1 A Nootropic for Elite Achievers
Verbal fluency - Memory - Processing speed - Productivity
Formula
Cortex with Uridine and CDP Choline Gen 1: WorkHorse
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Cortex by Surrogate Labs 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 Cortex by Surrogate Labs
These are the 4 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size2 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container15 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.
WorkHorse blend
- › CDP Choline
- › Uridine Monophosphate
- › Artichoke extract
- › Bacopa monnieri 20% extract
Other (inactive) ingredients: Vegetable Capsule, L-Leucine. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Cortex by Surrogate Labs Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Cortex by Surrogate Labs contains four ingredients, and we've documented interactions for three of them.
The most serious interaction involves artichoke extract and antihypertensive drugs (blood pressure medications) — it may lower blood pressure further, raising the risk of dangerously low pressure (hypotension).
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Artichoke extract also interacts moderately with antidiabetes drugs (it may increase the risk of low blood sugar), and theoretically with certain liver enzymes (CYP2C19 and CYP2B6 substrates) that break down some medications. Bacopa monnieri extract, another ingredient, interacts moderately with multiple liver enzyme substrates (CYP1A2, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, and CYP3A4), anticholinergic drugs (used for overactive bladder and other conditions), and cholinergic drugs (which boost nerve signaling).
It also has a documented case of an interaction with cevimeline (Evoxac, a drug for dry mouth in Sjögren syndrome), and a minor theoretical interaction with thyroid hormone. We could not check uridine monophosphate — no interaction data is on file for it.
Because you may be taking any number of these drug types, run your exact medications through the search tool on this page before you start. Altogether, these interactions span 1,143 individual medications.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Cortex?
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 Cortex interact with 1,142 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 4 ingredients in Cortex interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Bacopa monnieri 20% extract Artichoke extract
Belladona Extract, PhenobarbitalChardonna-2
How Belladona Extract, Phenobarbital interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2b6 (cyp2b6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Belladona Extract, Phenobarbital interactionBelladonna Alkaloids (prescription Drug)Bellafoline
How Belladonna Alkaloids (prescription Drug) interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractAnticholinergic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belladonna Alkaloids (prescription Drug) interactionBelladonna Alkaloids, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, PhenylpropanolamineRespa ARM
How Belladonna Alkaloids, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractAnticholinergic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belladonna Alkaloids, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Phenylpropanolamine interactionBelladonna Alkaloids, Ergotamine Tartrate, PhenobarbitalBel Tabs, Bellamine-S, Bellaphen-S, Duragal S, Phenarbal S, Spastrin
How Belladonna Alkaloids, Ergotamine Tartrate, Phenobarbital interacts with Cortex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Anticholinergic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belladonna Alkaloids, Ergotamine Tartrate, Phenobarbital interactionArtichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2b6 (cyp2b6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Belladonna Alkaloids, Ergotamine Tartrate, Phenobarbital interactionBelladonna Alkaloids, PhenobarbitalBarbidonna, Donnatal
How Belladonna Alkaloids, Phenobarbital interacts with Cortex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractAnticholinergic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belladonna Alkaloids, Phenobarbital interactionArtichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2b6 (cyp2b6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Belladonna Alkaloids, Phenobarbital interactionBelladonna Extract, Butabarbital SodiumButibel
How Belladonna Extract, Butabarbital Sodium interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractAnticholinergic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belladonna Extract, Butabarbital Sodium interactionBelladonna Extract, PhenobarbitalBelap
How Belladonna Extract, Phenobarbital interacts with Cortex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractAnticholinergic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belladonna Extract, Phenobarbital interactionArtichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2b6 (cyp2b6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Belladonna Extract, Phenobarbital interactionBelladonna, Caffeine, Ergotamine, PentobarbitalMicomp PB
How Belladonna, Caffeine, Ergotamine, Pentobarbital interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Anticholinergic Drugs +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belladonna, Caffeine, Ergotamine, Pentobarbital interactionBelladonna, Ergotamine Tartrate, Phenobarbital
How Belladonna, Ergotamine Tartrate, Phenobarbital interacts with Cortex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2b6 (cyp2b6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Belladonna, Ergotamine Tartrate, Phenobarbital interactionBacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Anticholinergic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belladonna, Ergotamine Tartrate, Phenobarbital interactionBelladonna, Ergotamine, PhenobarbitalBellergal-S
How Belladonna, Ergotamine, Phenobarbital interacts with Cortex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractAnticholinergic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belladonna, Ergotamine, Phenobarbital interactionArtichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2b6 (cyp2b6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Belladonna, Ergotamine, Phenobarbital interactionBelladonna, OpiumB & O Supprettes
How Belladonna, Opium interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractAnticholinergic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belladonna, Opium interactionBelladonna, PhenobarbitalBellophen, Susano
How Belladonna, Phenobarbital interacts with Cortex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractAnticholinergic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belladonna, Phenobarbital interactionArtichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2b6 (cyp2b6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Belladonna, Phenobarbital interactionBellafoline, Caffeine, Ergotamine Tartrate, PentobarbitalCafergot PB
How Bellafoline, Caffeine, Ergotamine Tartrate, Pentobarbital interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Bellafoline, Caffeine, Ergotamine Tartrate, Pentobarbital interactionBellafoline, PhenobarbitalBelladenal, Belladenal-S
How Bellafoline, Phenobarbital interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2b6 (cyp2b6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Bellafoline, Phenobarbital interactionBelumosudil MesylateRezurock
How Belumosudil Mesylate interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belumosudil Mesylate interactionBelzutifanWelireg
How Belzutifan interacts with Cortex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP2C19 substrates.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Belzutifan interactionArtichoke ExtractCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Belzutifan interactionBenazeprilLotensin
How Benazepril interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Benazepril interactionBenazepril, HydrochlorothiazideLotensin HCT
How Benazepril, Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Benazepril, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionBendamustineBelrapzo, Treanda, Vivimusta
How Bendamustine interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Bendamustine interactionBendamustine HydrochlorideBendeka
How Bendamustine Hydrochloride interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Bendamustine Hydrochloride interactionBendroflumethiazideAprinox, Naturetin, Neo-NaClex
How Bendroflumethiazide interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Bendroflumethiazide interactionBendroflumethiazide, NadololCorzide
How Bendroflumethiazide, Nadolol interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Bendroflumethiazide, Nadolol interactionBendroflumethiazide, Rauwolfia SerpentinaRauzide
How Bendroflumethiazide, Rauwolfia Serpentina interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Bendroflumethiazide, Rauwolfia Serpentina interactionBenzhydrocodone, AcetaminophenApadaz
How Benzhydrocodone, Acetaminophen interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractAnticholinergic Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Benzhydrocodone, Acetaminophen interactionBenzthiazideExna
How Benzthiazide interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Benzthiazide interactionBenztropineCogentin, Cogentin Injection
How Benztropine interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractAnticholinergic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Benztropine interactionBepridilVascor
How Bepridil interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Bepridil interactionBetaxololBetoptic, Kerlone
How Betaxolol interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Artichoke ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Artichoke Extract + Betaxolol interactionBethanechol ChlorideUrecholine
How Bethanechol Chloride interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractCholinergic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use of bacopa with other cholinergic drugs might have additive effects.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Bethanechol Chloride interactionBexaroteneTargretin
How Bexarotene interacts with Cortex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bacopa Monnieri 20% ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Bacopa Monnieri 20% Extract + Bexarotene interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Cortex 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.
Bacopa monnieri 20% extract
Anticholinergic Drugs
Theoretically, concurrent use might decrease the effectiveness of both agents.
Bacopa seems to inhibit acetylcholinesterase and might increase acetylcholine levels, which could counteract the effects of anticholinergic drugs. Similarly, anticholinergic drugs might counteract the cholinergic effects of bacopa.
Cevimeline (Evoxac)
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the effects and adverse effects of cevimeline.
In one case, a 58-year-old female taking cevimeline long-term for Sjogren syndrome experienced hyperhidrosis, malaise, nausea, and tachycardia shortly after taking a single dose of bacopa. Symptoms resolved after two days. Cevimeline is metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 and CYP3A4, and researchers theorize that bacopa may have inhibited these isoenzymes. However, it is unclear if bacopa causes clinically significant inhibition of either CYP2D6 or CYP3A4.
Cholinergic Drugs
Theoretically, concurrent use of bacopa with other cholinergic drugs might have additive effects.
Bacopa seems to inhibit acetylcholinesterase and might increase acetylcholine levels. Theoretically, this could result in additive cholinergic effects when used with cholinergic drugs.
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Research on the effects of bacopa extracts on CYP1A2 enzymes is conflicting. Some in vitro evidence shows that bacopa extract can moderately and non-competitively inhibit CYP1A2, while other in vitro evidence suggests that any effect is unlikely to be clinically significant.
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP2C19 substrates.
In vitro evidence suggests that bacopa extract can moderately and non-competitively inhibit CYP2C19 enzymes. It is not known whether this is clinically significant.
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP2C9 substrates.
Research on the effect of bacopa extracts on CYP2C9 enzymes is conflicting. Some in vitro evidence suggests that bacopa extract can moderately and non-competitively inhibit CYP2C9, while other in vitro evidence suggests that any effect is unlikely to be clinically significant.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, bacopa might increase the levels and adverse effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Research on the effects of bacopa extracts on CYP3A4 enzymes is conflicting. Some in vitro evidence suggests that bacopa extract can moderately and competitively inhibit CYP3A4, while other in vitro evidence suggests that any effect is unlikely to be clinically significant.
Thyroid Hormone
Theoretically, bacopa might have additive effects when used with thyroid hormone.
Animal research suggests that bacopa increases thyroxine (T4) levels in mice by about 40%.
Artichoke extract
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
A meta-analysis of small clinical studies shows that taking artichoke leaf extract for 8-12 weeks can modestly reduce fasting plasma glucose when compared with placebo.
Antihypertensive Drugs
Theoretically, artichoke leaf extract may increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
A meta-analysis of small clinical studies in patients with hypertension shows that taking artichoke can reduce systolic blood pressure by around 3 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by around 2 mmHg when compared with placebo.
Cytochrome P450 2B6 (Cyp2B6) Substrates
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
In vitro research shows that artichoke leaf extract inhibits CYP2B6 activity. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates
Theoretically, artichoke might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
In vitro research shows that artichoke leaf extract inhibits CYP2C19 activity. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Cortex, from the product label.
Surrogate Labs
See all Surrogate Labs products- Name
- Surrogate Labs LLC
- Street Address
- 2 West Broad St. Suite 7
- City
- Bethlehem
- State
- PA
- ZipCode
- 18018
- Web Address
- www.LiveCortex.com
Cortex by Surrogate Labs: Common Questions
Does Cortex by Surrogate Labs interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Will Cortex help my memory?
Can I take Cortex while pregnant or breastfeeding?
What are the most common side effects?
Is Cortex safe if I have a ragweed allergy?
Does Cortex interact with antidepressants?
What is bacopa used for?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Cortex is safe with your meds?
Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.
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 Cortex’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Citicoline
Citicoline is a naturally occurring compound involved in making brain cell membranes and the messenger chemical acetylcholine. It is popularly taken for memory, focus, and brain aging, and s...
Read the full Citicoline monograph → Herb & supplement monographArtichoke
Interacts with 363 drugsArtichoke leaf extract is a generally well-tolerated supplement that may have a mild cholesterol-lowering effect and is often used for indigestion, though the evidence is modest. It is not a...
Read the full Artichoke monograph → Herb & supplement monographBacopa
Interacts with 930 drugsBacopa is an Ayurvedic herb most often used for memory and thinking. Some small studies suggest it may modestly help memory when taken regularly for several weeks, but the evidence is limite...
Read the full Bacopa monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Cortex'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 39 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.
Citicoline 11 references
- Spiers PA, Myers D, Hochanadel GS, et al. Citicoline improves verbal memory in aging. Arch Neurol 1996;53:441-8. PubMed
- Fioravanti M, Yanagi M. Cytidinediphosphocholine (CDP-choline) for cognitive and behavioural disturbances associated with chronic cerebral disorders in the elderly. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2005;(2):CD000269. PubMed
- Conant R, Schauss AG. Therapeutic applications of citicoline for stroke and cognitive function in the elderly: A review of the literature. Altern Med Rev 2004;9:17-31.
- Warach, S., Pettigrew, L. C., Dashe, J. F., Pullicino, P., Lefkowitz, D. M., Sabounjian, L., Harnett, K., Schwiderski, U., and Gammans, R. Effect of citicoline on ischemic lesions as measured by diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Citicoline 0 DOI
- Lukas, S. E., Kouri, E. M., Rhee, C., Madrid, A., and Renshaw, P. F. Effects of short-term citicoline treatment on acute cocaine intoxication and cardiovascular effects. Psychopharmacology.(Berl.) 2001;157(2):163-167. PubMed
- Dinsdale, J. R., Griffiths, G. K., Castello, J., Maddock, J., Ortiz, J. A., and Aylward, M. CDP-choline: repeated oral dose tolerance studies in adult healthy volunteers. Arzneimittelforschung. 1983;33(7A):1061-1065.
- Clark BC, Georgekutty J, Berul CI. Myocardial ischemia secondary to synthetic cannabinoid (K2) use in pediatric patients. J Pediatr 2015;167(3):757-61.e1. PubMed
- Ghajar A, Gholamian F, Tabatabei-Motlagh M, et al. Citicoline (CDP-choline) add-on therapy to risperidone for treatment of negative symptoms in patients with stable schizophrenia: a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2
- Castagna A, Manzo C, Fabbo A, Lacava R, Ruberto C, Ruotolo G. The CITIMERIVA Study: CITIcoline plus MEmantina plus RIVAstigmine in Older Patients Affected with Alzheimer's Disease. Clin Drug Investig. 2021 Feb;41(2):177-182. PubMed
- Jeong H, Yoon S, Sung YH, et al. Effects of cytidine-5'-diphosphate choline on gray matter volumes in methamphetamine-dependent patients: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Psychiatr Res 2021;143:215-221. PubMed
- Nakazaki E, Mah E, Sanoshy K, Citrolo D, Watanabe F. Citicoline and Memory Function in Healthy Older Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. J Nutr 2021;151(8):2153-2160. PubMed
Artichoke 16 references
- Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
- Walker AF, Middleton RW, Petrowicz O. Artichoke leaf extract reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in a post-marketing surveillance study. Phytother Res 2001;15:58-61. PubMed
- Pittler MH, White AR, Stevinson C, Ernst E. Effectiveness of artichoke extract in preventing alcohol-induced hangovers: a randomized controlled trial. CMAJ 2003;169:1269-73.
- Romano, C., Ferrara, A., and Falagiani, P. A case of allergy to globe artichoke and other clinical cases of rare food allergy. J Investig.Allergol.Clin Immunol. 2000;10(2):102-104.
- Miralles, J. C., Garcia-Sells, J., Bartolome, B., and Negro, J. M. Occupational rhinitis and bronchial asthma due to artichoke (Cynara scolymus). Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2003;91(1):92-95. PubMed
- Franck, P., Moneret-Vautrin, D. A., Morisset, M., Kanny, G., Megret-Gabeaux, M. L., and Olivier, J. L. Anaphylactic reaction to inulin: first identification of specific IgEs to an inulin protein compound. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2005;136(2):155-158. PubMed
- Meding, B. Allergic contact dermatitis from artichoke, Cynara scolymus. Contact Dermatitis 1983;9(4):314.
- Quirce, S., Tabar, A. I., Olaguibel, J. M., and Cuevas, M. Occupational contact urticaria syndrome caused by globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus). J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1996;97(2):710-711. PubMed
- Held C. Von der 1. Deutsche-Ungarischen Phytopharmakon-Konferenz, Budapest, 20. November 1991. Z Klin Med 1992;47:92-93.
- Barrat E, Zaïr Y, Ogier N, et al. A combined natural supplement lowers LDL cholesterol in subjects with moderate untreated hypercholesterolemia: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2013;64(7):882-9. PubMed
- Huber R, Müller M, Naumann J, Schenk T, Lüdtke R. Artichoke leave extract for chronic hepatitis C - a pilot study. Phytomedicine. 2009 Sep;16(9):801-4. PubMed
- Caputo F, Barranco R, Bonsignore A, Fraternali Orcioni G, Ventura F. A rare case of fatal bowel obstruction secondary to a colonic bezoar. Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2018;39(1):38-40. PubMed
- Elsebai MF, Abass K, Hakkola J, Atawia AR, Farag MA. The wild Egyptian artichoke as a promising functional food for the treatment of hepatitis C virus as revealed via UPLC-MS and clinical trials. Food Funct. 2016;7(7):3006-16. PubMed
- Moradi M, Sohrabi G, Golbidi M, et al. Effects of artichoke on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med 2021;57:102668. PubMed
- Jalili C, Moradi S, Babaei A, et al. Effects of Cynara scolymus L. on glycemic indices: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Complement Ther Med 2020;52:102496. PubMed
- Gallo R, Oddenino G, Trave I, Gasparini G, Guadagno A, Parodi A. Contact sensitivity to sesquiterpene lactone mix and artichoke in a patient with severe recurrent dermatitis: A puzzling case. Contact Dermatitis 2023;88(2):156-158. PubMed
Bacopa 12 references
- Stough C, Lloyd J, Clarke J, et al. The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects. Psychopharmacology 2001;156:481-4..
- Yadav SK, Jain AK, Tripathi SN, Gupta JP. Irritable bowel syndrome: therapeutic evaluation of indigenous drugs. Indian J Med Res 1989;90:496-503..
- Morgan A, Stevens J. Does Bacopa monnieri improve memory performance in older persons? Results of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. J Altern Complement Med 2010;16:753-9.
- Kar, A., Panda, S., and Bharti, S. Relative efficacy of three medicinal plant extracts in the alteration of thyroid hormone concentrations in male mice. J Ethnopharmacol. 2002;81(2):281-285. PubMed
- Mukherjee, G. D. and Dey, C. D. Clinical trial on Brahmi. I. J.Exp.Med.Sci. 1966;10(1):5-11.
- Kar A, Pandit S, Mukherjee K, Bahadur S, Mukherjee PK. Safety assessment of selected medicinal food plants used in Ayurveda through CYP450 enzyme inhibition study. J Sci Food Agric 2017;97(1):333-40. doi: 10.1002/jsfa.7739. PubMed
- Kongkeaw C, Dilokthornsakul P, Thanarangsarit P, et al. Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on cognitive effects of Bacopa monnieri extract. J Ethnopharmacol 2014;151(1):528-35. PubMed
- Ramasamy S, Kiew LV, Chung LY. Inhibition of human cytochrome P450 enzymes by Bacopa monnieri standardized extract and constituents. Molecules 2014;19(2):2588-601. PubMed
- Prabhakar S, Vishnu VY, Modi M, et al. Efficacy of Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi) and donepezil in Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment: a randomized double-blind parallel phase 2b study. Ann Indian Acad Neurol 2020;23(6):767-73. PubMed
- Acquarulo B, Tandon P, Macica CM. Suspected cholinergic toxicity due to cevimeline hydrochloride and Bacopa monnieri interaction: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2022;16(1):253. PubMed
- Keegan AP, Stough C, Paris D, et al. Bacopa monnieri supplementation has no effect on serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels but beneficially modulates nuclear factor kappa B and cyclic AMP response element-binding protein levels in healthy elderl
- Yaworski AM, Blyumin M, Chang T, Mammen AL, Greene M. Necrotizing myopathy with elevated anti-HMGCR antibodies following exposure to the supplement Bacopa. Muscle Nerve 2023;67(2):E1-E3.
Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
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