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Dietary supplement

Fenugreek Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Alvita

Other (e.g. Tea Bag) Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Fenugreek is a dietary supplement by Alvita with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for blood sugar control, boosting breast milk supply, high cholesterol.Based on those ingredients, 389 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Fenugreek. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Fenugreek by Alvita

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Alvita Fenugreek is a single-ingredient tea made from fenugreek seed. That's it — no fillers or other actives.

Fenugreek is a legume seed that's been used traditionally to support sexual function, ease period cramps, and help manage blood sugar.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed

This product doesn't appear to be marketed for a specific use, so we graded Fenugreek's overall clinical evidence instead.

Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports Fenugreek for:

Why this rating?
  • The label markets general wellness (“support digestion”), not a specific health condition, so there is no single claim to grade against clinical-evidence data.
  • Since the label doesn't commit to one use, we graded the ingredient's overall clinical evidence instead.
  • On file: Sexual dysfunction — rated "Possibly Effective" (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Diabetes — rated "Possibly Effective" (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Sexual arousal — rated "Possibly Effective" (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Dysmenorrhea — rated "Possibly Effective" (Natural Medicines).

The evidence we hold shows fenugreek is possibly effective for sexual dysfunction and sexual arousal, and possibly effective for dysmenorrhea (painful periods) and diabetes management. The data on blood sugar comes from clinical research in people with type 2 diabetes, so if that's what you're interested in, there's some real-world support.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Fenugreek

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

When you drink fenugreek as tea, it's generally well tolerated — most people don't run into trouble. That said, supplement amounts (which may be higher than culinary doses) can cause abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and flatulence in some folks.

Severe allergic reactions are rare but possible — think swelling of the throat, trouble breathing, or shock. Don't use medicinal amounts of fenugreek during pregnancy; it may affect the uterus.

If you're breastfeeding and considering fenugreek to boost milk supply, the evidence is limited — talk with your doctor or lactation consultant first. One oddity: if you consume fenugreek right before delivery or if a baby drinks fenugreek tea, they may develop an unusual body odor that could be mistaken for maple syrup urine disease, though this doesn't appear to cause lasting harm.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Fenugreek

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Fenugreek.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 389 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before you drink this tea, check your medications if you take blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs (warfarin, clopidogrel, aspirin), antidiabetes drugs, metoprolol or other blood-pressure medications, theophylline, phenytoin (Dilantin), or sildenafil (Viagra). All of these carry Moderate-severity interaction concerns with fenugreek.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence behind its ingredients' uses. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Fenugreek tea might appeal to you if you're interested in possibly supporting sexual function, easing period pain, or managing blood sugar — but it's a big one to run by your pharmacist first. Anyone on blood thinners, diabetes drugs, blood-pressure meds, or seizure medication needs to check before starting.

If you have a history of allergic reactions, be cautious.

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

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jul 21, 2022.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Fenugreek, straight from the product label.

Brand Alvita
Net contents 24 Tea Bag(s); 1.69 Oz(s); 48 Gram(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jul 21, 2022
DSLD ID 268567
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Other (e.g. Tea Bag)
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Kosher, Organic, Gluten Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Fenugreek by Alvita, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Tea Bag(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Tea Bag(s)
Servings per container
24
IngredientAmount% DV
Fenugreek2 Gram(s)--

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formulation

Organic

Traditionally used to help support digestion

NSF Certified Gluten-Free Naturally caffeine free

Certified Organic by QAI.

Certified Gluten-Free by NSF.

Brand IP Statement(s)

Alvita Since 1922

FDA Statement of Identity

Herbal Supplement

Seals/Symbols

NSF Certified Gluten-Free USDA Organic

Quality Assurance International Certified Organic Star-K (Kosher)

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Preparation Place one tea bag in a cup and add 8 oz of boiling water. Cover and steep for 12 minutes. Gently squeeze tea bag and remove. Directions for use: We recommend 3 cups daily. Add sweetener if desired

How to brew Pour 8 oz 1 Temp 212 Degrees F 2 Steep 12 min 3

Formula

Star-K (Kosher)

Fenugreek Fenugreek's (Trigonella foenumgraecum) aroma and flavor have given rise to its popularity as a culinary spice. The seeds of the fenugreek plant-whose beneficial properties were first described by the ancient Egyptians in 1,500 B.C.-have long been esteemed for their traditional use to help support digestion.

Alvita Fenugreek Tea is made with premium-quality, organic fenugreek seeds, and has a mildly bitter flavor with a hint of maple.

General Statements

The Alvita Story… In 1922, a new era for tea consumption began in America. The herb alfalfa, long known for its beneficial nutrients, was packaged in tea bags and sold to an emerging health food market. This product became known as Alvita and set the standard for future herbal teas. Today, Alvita represents more than forty single-ingredient teas, each one uniquely distinct, just like the individuals who drink them. Alvita chooses only the highest quality organic, wildcrafted, or cultivated botanicals, perfectly prepared to provide you with the best Mother Nature has to offer. Historical and scientific literature is painstakingly studied to ensure that the correct traditional plant and most appropriate servings are used, delivering premium flavor and quality. Herbs are gifts from the earth. Alvita takes its stewardship seriously by offering carefully harvested teas in earth-friendly packaging. Our beautifully illustrated boxes are made using recycled paperboard and our English, pillow style tea bags are oxygen bleached, not chlorine treated. You won’t find a better product, with a cleaner package… anywhere. Alvita… brewed with confidence, steeped in tradition. 100% Recycled Paperboard Recyclable

Precautions

WARNING: If you are pregnant or nursing, taking any medication or have any medical condition, consult a health care professional before use.

Keep out of 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.

See for yourself

Fenugreek by Alvita label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Fenugreek by Alvita

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Tea Bag(s) Dosage formOther (e.g. Tea Bag) Servings per container24 Amounts shown are per serving.

Fenugreek

Interacts with
389 drugs
2 Gram(s) per serving

Fenugreek is a common kitchen spice that is also taken as a supplement, mainly for blood sugar, cholesterol, and to support breast milk production. So...

Fenugreek monograph & interactions
Interaction report

Fenugreek by Alvita Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Fenugreek?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
389Drugs
224 Moderate 165 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Fenugreek 389

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Fenugreek with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Fenugreek9 drug types · 389 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, fenugreek might have additive effects when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Some of the constituents in fenugreek have antiplatelet effects in animal and in vitro research. However, common fenugreek products might not contain sufficient concentrations of these constituents for clinical effects. A clinical study in patients with coronary artery disease or diabetes shows that taking fenugreek seed powder 2.5 grams twice daily for 3 months does not affect platelet aggregation, fibrinolytic activity, or fibrinogen levels .

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, fenugreek seed might have additive hypoglycemic effects when used with antidiabetes drugs.
Clinical research shows that fenugreek seed can reduce fasting blood glucose and 2-hour postprandial glucose levels in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Clopidogrel (Plavix)

Theoretically, fenugreek seed might alter the clinical effects of clopidogrel by inhibiting its conversion to the active form.
Animal research shows that fenugreek seed 200 mg/kg daily for 14 days increases the maximum serum concentration of clopidogrel by 21%. It is unclear how this affects the pharmacokinetics of the active metabolite of clopidogrel; however, this study found that concomitant use of fenugreek seed and clopidogrel prolonged bleeding time by an additional 11%.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Metoprolol (Toprol)

Theoretically, fenugreek seed might have additive hypotensive effects when used with metoprolol.
Animal research shows that fenugreek seed 300 mg/kg daily for 2 weeks decreases systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 9% and 11%, respectively, when administered alone, and by 15% and 22%, respectively, when given with metoprolol 10 mg/kg.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Theoretically, fenugreek might decrease plasma levels of phenytoin.
Animal research shows that taking fenugreek seeds for 1 week decreases maximum concentrations and the area under the curve of a single dose of phenytoin by 44% and 72%, respectively. This seems to be related to increased clearance. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Sildenafil (Viagra)

Theoretically, concurrent use of sildenafil and fenugreek might reduce levels and therapeutic effects of sildenafil.
Animal research shows that taking fenugreek seeds for 1 week reduces maximum concentrations and the area under the curve of a single dose of sildenafil by 27% and 48%, respectively. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Theophylline

Theoretically, fenugreek may reduce the levels and clinical effects of theophylline.
Animal research shows that fenugreek 50 grams daily for 7 days reduces the maximum serum concentration (Cmax) of theophylline by 28% and the area under the plasma drug concentration-time curve (AUC) by 22%.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, fenugreek might have additive effects with warfarin and increase the international normalized ratio (INR).
Some fenugreek constituents have antiplatelet effects, although these might not be present in concentrations that are clinically significant. In one case report, a patient taking warfarin experienced an increased INR when starting to take fenugreek in combination with boldo.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Fenugreek may also have an additive effect on blood pressure-lowering medications. Studies on animals have shown that fenugreek seed can decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure by up to 22% when combined with metoprolol. Therefore, it is essential to monitor your blood pressure regularly if you are taking fenugreek and metoprolol together or any other antihypertensive drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence C
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Fenugreek, from the product label.

Alvita

See all Alvita products
Name
Twinlab Corporation
City
American Fork
State
UT
ZipCode
84003
Phone Number
1-800-645-5626
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Fenugreek by Alvita: Common Questions

Does Fenugreek by Alvita interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Fenugreek has a known interaction with 389 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Fenugreek contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Will fenugreek actually help with erectile dysfunction?
The evidence says it's possibly effective for sexual dysfunction and arousal. That means there's some research backing it, but it's not a sure thing — it works for some people and not others. If you're curious, chat with your pharmacist about whether it's a fit for your situation.
What side effects might I get from this tea?
Most people tolerate it fine, but some experience bloating, gas, diarrhea, stomach pain, or nausea. Serious allergic reactions are rare, but if you notice swelling in your throat, wheezing, or trouble breathing, stop and get help right away.
Can I take fenugreek if I'm pregnant?
The safety data advises against medicinal amounts during pregnancy — it may affect the uterus. If you're thinking about it, talk with your doctor or midwife first.
Is fenugreek safe while I'm breastfeeding?
Fenugreek is often used to try to boost milk supply, but the evidence is limited. There isn't enough data to know if it's fully safe or how well it works — discuss it with your provider or lactation consultant before starting.
Does fenugreek really lower blood sugar?
Clinical research shows fenugreek seed can reduce fasting blood glucose in adults with type 2 diabetes. If you're on antidiabetes medication, that's exactly why you need to check with your pharmacist — the combination could lower your blood sugar too much.
What's in Alvita Fenugreek tea?
Just fenugreek seed — no other active ingredients or fillers. It's a straightforward single-ingredient product.

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

Not sure if Fenugreek is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

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.

Fenugreek label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Fenugreek's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 30 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.

Fenugreek 30 references
  1. Madar Z, Thorne R. Dietary fiber. Prog Food Nutr Sci 1987;11:153-74.
  2. Sharma RD, Raghuram TC, Rao NS. Effect of fenugreek seeds on blood glucose and serum lipids in type I diabetes. Eur J Clin Nutr 1990;44:301-6.
  3. Patil SP, Niphadkar PV, Bapat MM. Allergy to fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum). Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 1997;78:297-300. PubMed
  4. Lambert J, Cormier J. Potential interaction between warfarin and boldo-fenugreek. Pharmacotherapy 2001;21:509-12. PubMed
  5. Bordia A, Verma SK, Srivastava KC. Effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) and fenugreek (Trigonella foenumgraecum L.) on blood lipids, blood sugar and platelet aggregation in patients with coronary artery disease. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty PubMed
  6. Yalcin SS, Tekinalp G, Ozalp I. Peculiar odor of traditional food and maple syrup urine disease. Pediatr Int 1999;41:108-9. PubMed
  7. Sewell AC, Mosandl A, Bohles H. False diagnosis of maple syrup urine disease owing to ingestion of herbal tea. N Engl J Med 1999;341:769.. PubMed
  8. Abdo MS, al-Kafawi AA. Experimental studies on the effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum (abstract). Planta Med 1969;17:14-8.
  9. Gupta A, Gupta R, Lal B. Effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seeds on glycaemic control and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a double blind placebo controlled study. J Assoc Physicians India 2001;49:1057-61.
  10. Gabay MP. Galactogogues: medications that induce lactation. J Hum Lact 2002;18:274-9. PubMed
  11. Chevassus H, Gaillard JB, Farret A, et al. A fenugreek seed extract selectively reduces spontaneous fat intake in overweight subjects. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2010;66(5):449-55. PubMed
  12. Turkyilmaz C, Onal E, Hirfanoglu IM, et al. The effect of galactagogue herbal tea on breast milk production and short-term catch-up of birth weight in the first week of life. J Altern Complement Med 2011;17(2):139-42. PubMed
  13. Swafford S, Berens P. Effect of fenugreek on breast milk volume. Abstract presented at: 5th International Meeting of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine; September 11-13,2000, Tucson, Arizona.
  14. Abdel-Barry, J. A., Abdel-Hassan, I. A., Jawad, A. M., and al Hakiem, M. H. Hypoglycaemic effect of aqueous extract of the leaves of Trigonella foenum-graecum in healthy volunteers. East Mediterr.Health J 2000;6(1):83-88. DOI
  15. Parvizpur, A., Ahmadiani, A., and Kamalinejad, M. Probable role of spinal purinoceptors in the analgesic effect of Trigonella foenum (TFG) leaves extract. J Ethnopharmacol 3-8-2006;104(1-2):108-112. PubMed
  16. Mora, A., Herrrera, A., Lopez, C., Dahbi, G., Mamani, R., Pita, J. M., Alonso, M. P., Llovo, J., Bernardez, M. I., Blanco, J. E., Blanco, M., and Blanco, J. Characteristics of the Shiga-toxin-producing enteroaggregative Escherichia coli O104:H4 German ou
  17. Blanco, J. [Stx2a-producing enteroaggregative Escherichia coli O104:H4-ST678. Microbiological diagnostic already, for this and other STEC/VTEC serotypes!]. Enferm.Infecc.Microbiol.Clin. 2012;30(2):84-89.
  18. Beutin, L. and Martin, A. Outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O104:H4 infection in Germany causes a paradigm shift with regard to human pathogenicity of STEC strains. J Food Prot. 2012;75(2):408-418. PubMed
  19. King LA, Nogareda F, Weill FX, Mariani-Kurkdjian P, Loukiadis E, Gault G, Jourdan-DaSilva N, Bingen E, Macé M, Thevenot D, Ong N, Castor C, Noël H, Van Cauteren D, Charron M, Vaillant V, Aldabe B, Goulet V, Delmas G, Couturier E, Le Strat Y, Combe C, Delm
  20. Reeder C, Legrand A, O'Connor-Von SK. The Effect of Fenugreek on Milk Production and Prolactin Levels in Mothers of Preterm Infants. Clinical Lactation 2013;4(4):159-165. DOI
  21. Al-Jenoobi FI, Ahad A, Mahrous GM, Al-Mohizea AM, AlKharfy KM, Al-Suwayeh SA. Effects of fenugreek, garden cress, and black seed on theophylline pharmacokinetics in beagle dogs. Pharm Biol 2015;53(2):296-300. PubMed
  22. Rao A, Steels E, Inder WJ, Abraham S, Vitetta L. Testofen, a specialised Trigonella foenum-graecum seed extract reduces age-related symptoms of androgen decrease, increases testosterone levels and improves sexual function in healthy aging males in a doubl
  23. Steels E, Rao A, Vitetta L. Physiological aspects of male libido enhanced by standardized Trigonella foenum-graecum extract and mineral formulation. Phytother Res. 2011 Sep;25(9):1294-300.
  24. Gong J, Fang K, Dong H, Wang D, Hu M, Lu F. Effect of fenugreek on hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidemia in diabetes and prediabetes: A meta-analysis. J Ethnopharmacol. 2016 Dec 24;194:260-268. PubMed
  25. Ouzir M, El Bairi K, Amzazi S. Toxicological properties of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum). Food Chem Toxicol. 2016 Oct;96:145-54. PubMed
  26. Khodamoradi K, Khosropanah MH, Ayati Z, et al. The Effects of Fenugreek on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med. 2020;52:102416. PubMed
  27. Alkharfy K, Jan B, Alotaibi K, et al. Clopidogrel-herb Interactions: A Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Assessment in a Rat Model. Curr Drug Metab 2021;22(12):969-977. PubMed
  28. Bin Jardan YA, Ahad A, Raish M, Alam MA, Al-Mohizea AM, Al-Jenoobi FI. Effects of garden cress, fenugreek and black seed on the pharmacodynamics of metoprolol: an herb-drug interaction study in rats with hypertension. Pharm Biol 2021;59(1):1088-1097. PubMed
  29. Al-Mohizea AM, Ahad A, El-Maghraby GM, et al. Effects of Nigella sativa, Lepidium sativum and Trigonella foenum-graecum on sildenafil disposition in beagle dogs. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet. 2015;40(2):219-24. PubMed
  30. Alkharfy KM, Al-Jenoobi FI, Al-Mohizea AM, et al. Effects of Lepidium sativum, Nigella sativa and Trigonella foenum-graceum on phenytoin pharmacokinetics in beagle dogs. Phytother Res. 2013;27(12):1800-4.

See these in context on the Fenugreek monograph →

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

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