DSK-W Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Pure Herbs
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking DSK-W 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
DSK-W is a dietary supplement by Pure Herbs with 5 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for skin irritation and itching, minor wounds and cuts, digestive upset.Based on those ingredients, 1,056 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Valerian root extract, Mullein Leaf Extract, Papaya fruit extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against DSK-W by Pure Herbs
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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 DSK-W by Pure Herbs
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
DSK-W contains 5 active ingredients in a proprietary blend: chickweed aerial parts extract, mullein leaf extract, papaya fruit extract, valerian root extract, and black willow bark extract. There are no inactive ingredients listed.
The blend is formulated as a liquid, which may help absorption compared to capsules or tablets.
Does it work?
Not established
The evidence for what DSK-W is meant to do isn't well established in the data we hold. Valerian root extract is rated possibly effective for insomnia, meaning some evidence supports its use for sleep.
However, the other four ingredients—chickweed, mullein, papaya, and black willow bark—have insufficient reliable evidence to rate their effectiveness for any of the conditions they're traditionally used for, including weight management, respiratory support, and aging skin. The proprietary blend format also means the exact amounts of each ingredient are not disclosed, which makes it harder to know whether the doses are meaningful.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Short-term use of most ingredients in DSK-W is generally well tolerated, but long-term safety data are limited. The most common side effects from valerian are dizziness, drowsiness, mental slowness, headache, and stomach upset; if you use it for weeks and then stop abruptly, withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and insomnia can occur, so doses should be tapered slowly.
Papaya leaf extract may cause nausea and vomiting. Topically, both chickweed and mullein have been reported to cause contact dermatitis in rare cases.
Valerian carries rare reports of liver problems, though these were in multi-ingredient products and causality was unclear. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Chickweed safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding is unknown, and the data advises avoidance during both.
Mullein, papaya, and valerian all have insufficient safety information for pregnancy and breastfeeding—talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using DSK-W if you are pregnant or nursing. We do not have pregnancy or breastfeeding data on file for black willow bark extract.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking DSK-W, double-check if you take any CNS depressants (such as benzodiazepines like alprazolam, sleep aids, or opioid painkillers), as valerian can add to their sedative effects at Moderate severity. Also screen for antidiabetes drugs (blood sugar medications), warfarin or other blood thinners, amiodarone (a heart drug), levothyroxine (thyroid medication)—papaya carries Moderate interactions with all of these.
Alcohol and glucuronidated drugs (processed by a specific liver pathway) should also be reviewed with your pharmacist. Mullein carries a Minor interaction with blood thinners.
Use the medication checker on this page to be sure.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
DSK-W may appeal to someone interested in herbal support for sleep or general wellness, but valerian's sedative effects mean it's not right for you if you take any medication that makes you drowsy or if you drink alcohol regularly. If you take blood thinners, thyroid medication, blood sugar medications, heart rhythm drugs, or any CNS depressants, you'll need to check this product against your exact medications before starting.
Talk to your pharmacist—the interactions here are real and worth confirming against your personal regimen.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 4 of 5 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jan 23, 2023.
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 DSK-W, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Pure Herbs |
|---|---|
| Net contents | 4 Fluid Ounce(s); 120 mL |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Jan 23, 2023 |
| DSLD ID | 281230 |
| Product type | Botanical |
| Supplement form | Liquid |
| 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 DSK-W by Pure Herbs, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Proprietary Blend | 1910 mg | -- |
| Chickweed aerial parts extract | 0 NP | -- |
| Mullein Leaf Extract | 0 NP | -- |
| Papaya fruit extract | 0 NP | -- |
| Valerian root extract | 0 NP | -- |
| Black Willow bark extract | 0 NP | -- |
Other ingredients: None
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: For adults, mix 2 mL (abt. 1/2 tsp) of extract in 2 fl. oz (60 mL) water one time daily preferably with a meal.
Shake well before use
Formulation
Helps to maintain the body's natural response to inflammation.
FDA Disclaimer Statement
This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Precautions
Warning: Not intended for use by pregnant or nursing women. If you have a medical condition or are taking medication, consult your doctor prior to use.
Discontinue use and consult with your doctor if any adverse reactions occur.
Keep out of reach of children
Brand IP Statement(s)
Pure Herbs, Ltd. Natural Herbal Extracts
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
General Statements
"No expense has been spared to provide the finest nature has to offer."
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
DSK-W by Pure Herbs 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 DSK-W by Pure Herbs
These are the 5 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size2 mL Dosage formLiquid Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.
Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.
Proprietary Blend
- › Chickweed aerial parts extract
- › Mullein Leaf Extract
- › Papaya fruit extract
- › Valerian root extract
- › Black Willow bark extract
Other (inactive) ingredients: None. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
DSK-W by Pure Herbs Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Pure Herbs DSK-W is a five-ingredient liquid that contains documented interactions with a substantial number of medications.
The most serious is valerian root extract, which can add to the sedative effects of CNS depressants (central nervous system depressants)—drugs like benzodiazepines, sleep aids, and opioids—at Moderate severity. This means combining valerian with these medications could cause stronger drowsiness, dizziness, and mental slowness than either would cause alone.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Papaya fruit extract carries Moderate interactions with antidiabetes drugs (blood sugar medications), warfarin (a blood thinner), amiodarone (a heart rhythm drug), and levothyroxine (a thyroid medication). With antidiabetes drugs, papaya may lower blood sugar too much; with warfarin, it may increase bleeding risk; with amiodarone, it may raise levels of the drug; and with levothyroxine, it may reduce how well the thyroid medication works.
Valerian also interacts Moderately with glucuronidated drugs (medications processed by a specific liver enzyme pathway) and alcohol, both of which could increase valerian's sedative effect. Additionally, mullein leaf extract carries a Minor interaction with blood thinners (anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs) because of mild blood-thinning compounds in the plant.
Chickweed aerial parts extract has no interactions documented in our data. We could not check black willow bark extract because interaction data are not on file for it.
Altogether, these interactions span 1,044 individual medications. Please use the medication checker on this page to search for your exact drugs before you start DSK-W.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against DSK-W?
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 DSK-W interact with 1,056 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
3 of the 5 ingredients in DSK-W interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Valerian root extract Mullein Leaf Extract Papaya fruit extract
Ado-trastuzumab EmtansineKadcyla
How Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interactionAbciximabReoPro
How Abciximab interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Mullein Leaf ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Lab tests on extracts from different parts of common and dense-flowered mullein plants show that they do have some blood-thinning effects, as they increase the time it takes for blood to clot.
Read the full Mullein Leaf Extract + Abciximab interactionAbemaciclibVerzenio
How Abemaciclib interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Abemaciclib interactionAbiraterone
How Abiraterone interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Abiraterone interactionAbiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
How Abiraterone Acetate interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Abiraterone Acetate interactionAbrocitinibCibinqo
How Abrocitinib interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Mullein Leaf ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Lab tests on extracts from different parts of common and dense-flowered mullein plants show that they do have some blood-thinning effects, as they increase the time it takes for blood to clot.
Read the full Mullein Leaf Extract + Abrocitinib interactionAcalabrutinibCalquence
How Acalabrutinib interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Acalabrutinib interactionAcenocoumarolSintrom
How Acenocoumarol interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Mullein Leaf ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Lab tests on extracts from different parts of common and dense-flowered mullein plants show that they do have some blood-thinning effects, as they increase the time it takes for blood to clot.
Read the full Mullein Leaf Extract + Acenocoumarol interactionAcetylsalicylic AcidEntrophen
How Acetylsalicylic Acid interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Mullein Leaf ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Lab tests on extracts from different parts of common and dense-flowered mullein plants show that they do have some blood-thinning effects, as they increase the time it takes for blood to clot.
Read the full Mullein Leaf Extract + Acetylsalicylic Acid interactionAdagrasibKrazati
How Adagrasib interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Adagrasib interactionAerosphere Budesonide, Formoterol Fumarate, GlycopyrrolateBreztri
How Aerosphere Budesonide, Formoterol Fumarate, Glycopyrrolate interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Aerosphere Budesonide, Formoterol Fumarate, Glycopyrrolate interactionAlfuzosinUroxatral
How Alfuzosin interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Alfuzosin interactionAliskirenTekturna
How Aliskiren interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Aliskiren interactionAlmotriptanAlmogran, Axert
How Almotriptan interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Almotriptan interactionAlpelisibPiqray
How Alpelisib interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Alpelisib interactionAlteplase, TpaActilyse, Activase
How Alteplase, Tpa interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Mullein Leaf ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Lab tests on extracts from different parts of common and dense-flowered mullein plants show that they do have some blood-thinning effects, as they increase the time it takes for blood to clot.
Read the full Mullein Leaf Extract + Alteplase, Tpa interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Mullein Leaf ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Lab tests on extracts from different parts of common and dense-flowered mullein plants show that they do have some blood-thinning effects, as they increase the time it takes for blood to clot.
Read the full Mullein Leaf Extract + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAmbrisentanLetairis, Volibris
How Ambrisentan interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Ambrisentan interactionAmlodipineNorliqva
How Amlodipine interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Amlodipine interactionAmlodipine BenzoateKaterzia
How Amlodipine Benzoate interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Amlodipine Benzoate interactionAmlodipine BesilateIstin
How Amlodipine Besilate interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Amlodipine Besilate interactionAmlodipine BesylateNorvasc
How Amlodipine Besylate interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Amlodipine Besylate interactionAmlodipine Besylate, BenazeprilLotrel
How Amlodipine Besylate, Benazepril interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Amlodipine Besylate, Benazepril interactionAmlodipine, CelecoxibConsensi
How Amlodipine, Celecoxib interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Amlodipine, Celecoxib interactionAmoxicillin, Omeprazole Magnesium, RifabutinTalicia
How Amoxicillin, Omeprazole Magnesium, Rifabutin interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Amoxicillin, Omeprazole Magnesium, Rifabutin interactionAmphetamineAdensys XR-ODT, Adzenys ER, Dyanavel XR, Mydayis
How Amphetamine interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Amphetamine interactionAmphetamine Aspartate, Amphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Dextroamphetamine SulfateAdderall, Adderall XR
How Amphetamine Aspartate, Amphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Dextroamphetamine Sulfate interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Amphetamine Aspartate, Amphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Dextroamphetamine Sulfate interactionAmphetamine SulfateBenzedrine, Evekeo ODT
How Amphetamine Sulfate interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Amphetamine Sulfate interactionAmprenavirAgenerase
How Amprenavir interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Valerian Root ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Valerian Root Extract + Amprenavir interactionAnacaulase-bcdbNexoBrid
How Anacaulase-bcdb interacts with DSK-W — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Mullein Leaf ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Lab tests on extracts from different parts of common and dense-flowered mullein plants show that they do have some blood-thinning effects, as they increase the time it takes for blood to clot.
Read the full Mullein Leaf Extract + Anacaulase-bcdb interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in DSK-W with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.
Valerian root extract
Alcohol (Ethanol)
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with alcohol.
Valerian has sedative effects. Theoretically, valerian might have an additive sedative effect when combined with alcohol. Excessive sedation has been reported in an alcohol-abusing individual who took valerian and Gingko biloba. However, the potential interaction between valerian and alcohol has been disputed in other research. Limited evidence suggests that a combination of valerian 160 mg and lemon balm 80 mg (Euvegal) does not cause further deterioration in reaction ability and reaction rate when taken with alcohol as compared to the effects of alcohol alone.
Alprazolam (Xanax)
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used with alprazolam. Also, valerian in high doses might modestly increase alprazolam levels, though this is not likely to be clinically significant.
Valerian has sedative effects. Theoretically, valerian might cause additive sedation when combined with alprazolam. Also, a small pharmacokinetic study shows that taking valerian extract 1000 mg daily (providing 11 mg valerenic acid) might increase alprazolam levels by about 19%. This might be due to valerian's mild inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Despite being statistically significant, this increase is not likely to be clinically significant.
Cns Depressants
Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Theoretically, concomitant use of valerian and drugs with sedative and anesthetic properties may cause additive therapeutic and adverse effects.
Glucuronidated Drugs
Valerian might weakly inhibit glucuronidation and increase concentrations of drugs metabolized by UGT1A1 and UGT2B7.
In vitro research shows that methanolic valerian extract and valerenic acid might competitively inhibit UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A1 (UGT1A1) and UGT2B7.
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Although some in vitro evidence suggests that valerian affects CYP2D6, clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) studies show that valerian is unlikely to affect the CYP2D6 enzyme. In one PK study, taking valerian 1000 mg (providing about 11 mg valerenic acid) nightly for 14 days did not affect the metabolism of dextromethorphan, a CYP2D6 substrate. In another PK study, taking valerian 125 mg three times daily for 28 days did not affect metabolism of debrisoquine, an accepted CYP2D6 probe-substrate.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Although some in vitro evidence suggests that valerian extract might inhibit or induce CYP3A4, clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) studies show that valerian does not have a clinically significant effect on the CYP3A4 enzyme. In one PK study, taking valerian 125 mg three times daily for 28 days did not affect metabolism of midazolam, an accepted CYP3A4 probe-substrate. In another PK study, taking valerian 1000 mg (providing about 11 mg valerenic acid) nightly for 14 days modestly increases levels of alprazolam, a CYP3A4 substrate, suggesting mild inhibition of CYP3A4. However, this mild inhibition is unlikely to be clinically relevant.
Mullein Leaf Extract
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Lab tests on extracts from different parts of common and dense-flowered mullein plants show that they do have some blood-thinning effects, as they increase the time it takes for blood to clot. This is likely due to at least one of the known constituents of muellein, triterpenoid saponins. However, the effects appear to be mild and results have been inconsistent. Extracts from different plant parts have been show to have varying anticoagulant strengths, with water-based ones being more potent than alcohol-based extracts.
Papaya fruit extract
Amiodarone (Cordarone)
Theoretically, papaya extract may increase the levels and clinical effects of amiodarone.
Animal research in rats shows that a single oral dose of papaya extract, as well as multiple doses of papaya extract daily over 14 days, prior to a single dose of amiodarone delays the time to maximum amiodarone concentration. However, only the 14-day papaya extract regimen increases systemic amiodarone exposure by 60% to 70%. This interaction has not been reported in humans.
Antidiabetes Drugs
Concomitant use of antidiabetic drugs with fermented papaya can produce additive effects. It is unclear if other forms of papaya have the same effect.
A small low-quality clinical study in patients with type 2 diabetes who are taking glibenclamide shows that taking a fermented papaya preparation 3 grams daily for 2 months decreases fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels when compared to baseline. Additionally, of the 25 patients in the study, 9 required a reduction in glibenclamide dose.
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)
Theoretically, consuming large quantities of papaya fruit can reduce the clinical effects of levothyroxine.
In one case-report, a 37-year-old male with a history of thyroidectomy who was stabilized on levothyroxine for 5 years presented with hypothyroidism after consuming 5-6 papaya fruits daily for 14 days during vacation. In a controlled re-challenge test involving 5-6 papayas daily, the patient remained euthyroid for 7 days, but developed mild hypothyroidism after 14 days. Both times, thyroid levels normalized 40-45 days after discontinuing papaya.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Theoretically, concomitant use of warfarin with papain-containing papaya extract might increase the effects and side effects of warfarin.
In one case report, a patient previously stable on warfarin was found to have an international normalization ratio (INR) of 7.4, which was attributed to ingestion of a supplement containing papain from papaya extract.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for DSK-W, from the product label.
Pure Herbs
See all Pure Herbs products- Name
- Pure Herbs, Ltd.
- City
- Sterling Heights
- State
- MI
- Phone Number
- (800) 860-4372
- Web Address
- www.pureherbs.com
DSK-W by Pure Herbs: Common Questions
Does DSK-W by Pure Herbs interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Can I take DSK-W if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Will DSK-W help me sleep?
What are the most common side effects I might notice?
Is DSK-W safe for long-term daily use?
What is valerian supposed to do?
Why can't you check black willow bark for interactions?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind DSK-W’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Chickweed
Chickweed is a common edible wild plant traditionally used on the skin for itching and minor irritation, and taken as a tea or tincture for various complaints. Solid human studies are lackin...
Read the full Chickweed monograph → Herb & supplement monographMullein
Interacts with 122 drugsMullein is a traditional herbal remedy most often used as a tea or syrup to soothe coughs, sore throats, and respiratory irritation. High-quality human studies are lacking, so its benefits a...
Read the full Mullein monograph → Herb & supplement monographPapaya
Interacts with 92 drugsPapaya is a tropical fruit that is nutritious and generally safe to eat as food, and it contains an enzyme called papain used as a digestive aid and meat tenderizer. Papaya leaf extract is b...
Read the full Papaya monograph → Herb & supplement monographValerian
Interacts with 902 drugsValerian is an herb whose root is widely used as a natural sleep aid and for calming nerves. The evidence is mixed and often weak, so it may help some people sleep but does not work reliably...
Read the full Valerian monograph →Sources & How We Checked
DSK-W'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 57 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.
Chickweed 4 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.
- Jovanovic M, Mimica-Dukic N, Poljacki M, Boza P. Erythema multiforme due to contact with weeds: a recurrence after patch testing. Contact Dermatitis 2003;48:17-25. PubMed
- Jovanovic, M., Poljacki, M., Mimica-Dukic, N., Boza, P., Vujanovic, Lj, Duran, V., and Stojanovic, S. Sesquiterpene lactone mix patch testing supplemented with dandelion extract in patients with allergic contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis and non-alle
- Poljacki, M., Jovanovic, M., Boza, P., Mimica-Dukic, N., Petrovic, A., and Novovic, Z. [Is Vojvodina a risk area for contact weed allergies?]. Med Pregl. 2005;58(3-4):123-126. PubMed
Mullein 2 references
- Castro AI, Carmona JB, Gonzales FG, Nestar OB. Occupational airborne dermatitis from gordolobo (Verbascum densiflorum). Contact Dermatitis 2006;55(5):301.
- Flores Echaiz C, Al Ali A, Cao AQ, Sasseville D. Simultaneous contact dermatitis caused by Asteraceae and Verbascum thapsus. Contact Dermatitis 2017;76(5):316-8.
Papaya 14 references
- The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
- Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
- Shaw D, Leon C, Kolev S, Murray V. Traditional remedies and food supplements: a 5-year toxicological study (1991-1995). Drug Saf 1997;17:342-56.
- Mansfield LE, Ting S, Haverly RW, Yoo TJ. The incidence and clinical implications of hypersensitivity to papain in an allergic population, confirmed by blinded oral challenge. Ann Allergy 1985;55:541-3.
- Blanco C, Diaz-Perales A, Collada C, et al. Class I chitinases as potential panallergens involved in the latex-fruit syndrome. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1999;103(3 Pt 1):507-13. PubMed
- Diaz-Perales A, Collada C, Blanco C, et al. Cross-reactions in the latex-fruit syndrome: A relevant role of chitinases but not of complex asparagine-linked glycans. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1999;104:681-7. PubMed
- Castillo, R., Delgado, J., Quiralte, J., Blanco, C., and Carrillo, T. Food hypersensitivity among adult patients: epidemiological and clinical aspects. Allergol.Immunopathol.(Madr.) 1996;24(3):93-97.
- Oderinde, O., Noronha, C., Oremosu, A., Kusemiju, T., and Okanlawon, O. A. Abortifacient properties of aqueous extract of Carica papaya (Linn) seeds on female Sprague-Dawley rats. Niger.Postgrad.Med J 2002;9(2):95-98. DOI
- Danese, C., Esposito, D., D'Alfonso, V., Cirene, M., Ambrosino, M., and Colotto, M. Plasma glucose level decreases as collateral effect of fermented papaya preparation use. Clin Ter. 2006;157(3):195-198.
- Iliev, D. and Elsner, P. Generalized drug reaction due to papaya juice in throat lozenges. Dermatology 1997;194(4):364-366. PubMed
- Andersen HA, Bernatz PE, Grindlay JH. Perforation of the esophagus after use of a digestant agent: report of case and experimental study. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol 1959;68:890-6. PubMed
- Deiana L, Marini S, Mariotti S. Ingestion of large amounts of papaya fruit and impaired effectiveness of levothyroxine therapy. Endocr Pract 2012;18(1):98-100. PubMed
- Rodrigues M, Alves G, Francisco J, Fortuna A, Falcão A. Herb-drug pharmacokinetic interaction between Carica papaya extract and amiodarone in rats. J Pharm Pharm Sci 2014;17(3):302-15. PubMed
- Rajapakse S, de Silva NL, Weeratunga P, Rodrigo C, Sigera C, Fernando SD. Carica papaya extract in dengue: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2019;19(1):265. PubMed
Valerian 37 references
- Willey LB, Mady SP, Cobaugh DJ, Wax PM. Valerian overdose: a case report. Vet Hum Toxicol 1995;37:364-5.
- Kuhlmann J, Berger W, Podzuweit H, Schmidt U. The influence of valerian treatment on "reaction time, alertness and concentration" in volunteers. Pharmacopsychiatry 1999;32:235-41. PubMed
- Klepser TB, Klepser ME. Unsafe and potentially safe herbal therapies. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1999;56:125-38. PubMed
- Houghton PJ. The scientific basis for the reputed activity of Valerian. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999;51:505-12. PubMed
- Garges HP, Varia I, Doraiswamy PM. Cardiac complications and delirium associated with Valerian root withdrawal. [Letter to the Editor]. JAMA 1998;280:1566-7. PubMed
- Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000;7:273-82. PubMed
- MacGregor FB, Abernethy VE, Dahabra S, et al. Hepatotoxicity of herbal remedies. BMJ 1989;299:1156-7. PubMed
- Leathwood PD, Chauffard F. Aqueous extract of valerian reduces latency to fall asleep in man. Planta Med 1985;2:144-8. PubMed
- Hadley S, Petry JJ. Valerian. Am Fam Physician 2003;67:1755-8..
- Glass JR, Sproule BA, Herrmann N, et al. Acute pharmacological effects of temazepam, diphenhydramine, and valerian in healthy elderly subjects. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2003;23:260-8. PubMed
- Lefebvre T, Foster BC, Drouin CE, et al. In vitro activity of commercial valerian root extracts against human cytochrome P450 3A4. J Pharm Pharmaceut Sci 2004;7:265-73.
- Yuan CS, Mehendale S, Xiao Y, et al. The gamma-aminobutyric acidergic effects of valerian and valerenic acid on rat brainstem neuronal activity. Anesth Analg 2004;98:353-8. PubMed
- Donovan JL, DeVane CL, Chavin KD, et al. Multiple night-time doses of valerian (Valeriana officinalis) had minimal effects on CYP3A4 activity and no effect on CYP2D6 activity in healthy volunteers. Drug Metab Dispos 2004;32:1333-6. PubMed
- Gurley BJ, Gardner SF, Hubbard MA, et al. In vivo effects of goldenseal, kava kava, black cohosh, and valerian on human cytochrome P450 1A2, 2D6, 2E1, and 3A4/5 phenotypes. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2005;77:415-26. PubMed
- Gutierrez S, Ang-Lee MK, Walker DJ, Zacny JP. Assessing subjective and psychomotor effects of the herbal medication valerian in healthy volunteers. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2004;78:57-64. PubMed
- Jacobs BP, Bent S, Tice JA, et al. An internet-based randomized, placebo-controlled trial of kava and valerian for anxiety and insomnia. Medicine (Baltimore) 2005;84:197-207. PubMed
- National Toxicology Program, US Department of Health and Human Services. Chemical Information Review Document for Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) [CAS No. 8057-49-6] and Oils [CAS No. 8008-88-6]. Supporting Nomination for Toxicological Evaluation by t
- Fernández-San-Martín MI, Masa-Font R, Palacios-Soler L, et al. Effectiveness of Valerian on insomnia: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Sleep Med. 2010 Jun;11:505-11. PubMed
- Coxeter PD, Schluter PJ, Eastwood HL, et al. Valerian does not appear to reduce symptoms for patients with chronic insomnia in general practice using a series of randomised n-of-1 trials. Complement Ther Med. 2003 Dec;11:215-22. PubMed
- Diaper A, Hindmarch I. A double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation of the effects of two doses of a valerian preparation on the sleep, cognitive and psychomotor function of sleep-disturbed older adults. Phytother Res. 2004 Oct;18:831-6. PubMed
- Cuellar NG, Ratcliffe SJ. Does valerian improve sleepiness and symptom severity in people with restless legs syndrome? Altern Ther Health Med 2009;15:22-8.
- Chen D, Klesmer J, Giovanniello A, et al. Mental status changes in an alcohol abuser taking valerian and gingko biloba. Am J Addict. 2002 Winter;11:75-7. PubMed
- Albrecht M, Berger W, Laux P, Schmidt U, et al. Psychopharmaka und Verkehrssicherheit. Der Einfluß von Euvegal® - Dragees forte auf die Fahrtüchtigkeit und Kombinationswirkungen mit Alkohol Z Allg Med 1995;71:1215-25.
- Carrasco MC, Vallejo JR, Pardo-de-Santayana M, et al. Interactions of Valeriana officinalis L. and Passiflora incarnata L. in a patient treated with lorazepam. Phytother Res. 2009 Dec;23:1795-6.
- Hellum BH, Nilsen OG. The in vitro inhibitory potential of trade herbal products on human CYP2D6-mediated metabolism and the influence of ethanol. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2007 Nov;101:350-8.
- Hellum BH, Hu Z, Nilsen OG. The induction of CYP1A2, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 by six trade herbal products in cultured primary human hepatocytes. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2007 Jan;100:23-30. PubMed
- Alkharfy, K. M. and Frye, R. F. Effect of valerian, valerian/hops extracts, and valerenic acid on glucuronidation in vitro. Xenobiotica 2007;37(2):113-123.
- Vassiliadis, T., Anagnostis, P., Patsiaoura, K., Giouleme, O., Katsinelos, P., Mpoumponaris, A., and Eugenidis, N. Valeriana hepatotoxicity. Sleep Med 2009;10(8):935. PubMed
- Muller, Z., Sarkany, A., Altorjay, A., Szilagyi, A., Tura, T., and Ozsvar, Z. [Liver failure a la Eastern Europe]. Orv.Hetil. 3-22-2009;150(12):555-557. PubMed
- National Toxicology Program, US Department of Health and Human Services. Chemical Information Review Document for Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) [CAS No. 8057-49-6] and Oils [CAS No. 8008-88-6]. 2009;
- Wells SR. International intravenous administration of a crude valerian root extract. NACCT 1995;33:542.
- Aydinoglu U, Özcan H, Yücel A, Yücel N, Mutlu M. Valerian induced hypomania: a case report. Bull Clin Psychopharma 2012;22(Suppl. 1):S63.
- Mirabi P, Mojab F. The effects of valerian root on hot flashes in menopausal women. Iran J Pharm Res 2013;12(1):217-22.
- Thomas K, Canedo J, Perry PJ, et al. Effects of valerian on subjective sedation, field sobriety testing and driving simulator performance. Accid Anal Prev. 2016 Jul;92:240-4. PubMed
- Kia YH, Alexander S, Dowling D, Standish R. A case of steroid-responsive valerian-associated hepatitis. Intern Med J. 2016 Jan;46(1):118-9. PubMed
- Burke H, Jiang S, Chatham P, Stern TA. Delirium After Withdrawal From Valerian Root: A Case Report. Psychosomatics. 2020;61(6):787-790. PubMed
- Hajizadeh I, Jamshidi M, Kazemi M, Kargar H, Sadeghi T. Comparison the effect of valerian and gabapentin on RLS and sleep quality in hemodialysis patients: A randomized clinical trial. Ther Apher Dial 2023.
Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC