Forskolin Ingredients & Drug Interactions
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Forskolin 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
Forskolin is a dietary supplement by Nature's Branch with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for minor burns and skin irritation, wound healing, constipation.Based on those ingredients, 1,073 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Forskolin Complex, Aloe vera, Powder. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Forskolin by Nature's Branch
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Forskolin by Nature's Branch — 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 Forskolin by Nature's Branch
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
Partial disclosure
Nature's Branch Forskolin contains 2 active ingredients. Coleus forskohlii root extract is the source of forskolin, a compound that animal research suggests may lower blood pressure and affect how your body opens blood vessels.
Aloe vera powder is included for its possible effects on blood sugar, skin conditions, and digestion — though the strength and form matter; aloe latex (the yellow substance under the leaf skin) carries stronger effects and more risks than the clear gel. The capsule also contains inactive ingredients: hypromellose (a capsule material), magnesium stearate (a binder), and rice flour (a filler).
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
The evidence we hold doesn't establish how well coleus forskohlii works for any of the conditions listed — angina, asthma, cancer, congestive heart failure, eczema, and dry eye all have insufficient reliable evidence to rate. For aloe vera powder, the data suggests it may be possibly effective for acne, obesity, diabetes, psoriasis, burns, and constipation, though the strength of that evidence varies and depends on the form and dose you use.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Coleus forskohlii is generally well tolerated when taken by mouth, though gastrointestinal side effects like constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting have been reported — a small number of trial participants experienced increased loose stools. The safety data advises against use during pregnancy and breastfeeding because there isn't enough information to know whether it's safe.
Coleus may lower blood pressure and is not well studied for long-term use, so use with care and professional guidance. Aloe vera powder — specifically the latex form — carries more serious risks with long-term or high-dose use.
Common side effects from oral use are abdominal pain, cramps, and diarrhea. Rare serious effects include severe potassium loss, muscle weakness, and heart rhythm problems, especially with overuse.
The safety data advises against use during pregnancy (the latex may stimulate the uterus and cause strong laxative effects) and breastfeeding (limited safety data and laxative effects). Topical aloe gel is generally well tolerated, though burning, redness, itching, and contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals have been reported.
Meds to double-check
Major interaction found
Double-check this product before taking it if you use nitrates (heart pain medications), calcium channel blockers (heart and blood pressure medications), blood thinners like warfarin or antiplatelet drugs, blood pressure medications, diabetes drugs, digoxin (a heart medication), diuretics, stimulant laxatives, or drugs broken down by your liver's CYP2C9 or CYP3A4 enzymes — all Major or Moderate severity interactions. If you take any prescription medication, run it through the checker on this page.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glancePartially disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Forskolin from coleus is not proven to work for the conditions listed here, and it carries significant interactions with heart medications, blood pressure drugs, and blood thinners. Aloe vera is possibly effective for several conditions, but the latex form (which may be in this powder) has risks with long-term or high-dose use and serious drug interactions.
Before you start this product, talk with your pharmacist, especially if you take heart, blood pressure, blood sugar, or blood-thinning medications.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 2 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Mar 25, 2025.
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 Forskolin, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Nature's Branch |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | X000Y5CD9X |
| Net contents | 60 Veggie Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Mar 25, 2025 |
| DSLD ID | 326276 |
| Product type | Botanical |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Vegan, Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Women (not pregnant or lactating), Gluten Free, Dairy Free |
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 Forskolin by Nature's Branch, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Coleus forskohlii Root Extract | 0 NP | -- |
| Aloe vera, Powder | 200 mg | -- |
| Forskolin Complex | 300 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Hypromellose, Magnesium Stearate, Rice Flour
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.
Formulation
Premium 100% Ultra Pure Fo...st Complex
Why choose our Forskolin: Non GMO, Vegan & Gluten free
Why choose our Forskolin: Non GMO, Vegan & Gluten free
Why choose our Forskolin: With 40% Standardized formula Supports weight management
Non GMO
Maximum Strength Promotes energy levels
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested use: As a dietary supplement, take one (1) veggie capsule once a day. For best results take 20-30 minutes before a meal with 8oz. of water or as directed by your healthcare professional.
Precautions
Warning: Do not exceed the recommended dose. As always, consult your physician before using this or any dietary supplement.
This product is not intended for pregnant or nursing mothers or children under age of 18.
This product is not intended for pregnant or nursing mothers or children under age of 18.
Keep out of reach of children.
Do not use if safety seal is damaged or missing.
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.
Seals/Symbols
Lab Tested 3rd Party Certified Purity & Potency GMP Good Manufacturing Practice Made in USA with Global Ingredients 100% Customer Satisfaction
Formula
Ultra Forskolin 300mg Coleus Forskohlii per serving
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place.
General Statements
60 Diet Pills New
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Forskolin by Nature's Branch 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 Forskolin by Nature's Branch
These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule 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.
Aloe vera, Powder
Interacts with461 drugs
Aloe vera gel is widely used on the skin for minor burns and irritation, and some research suggests it may help. Aloe latex (the yellow part) is a str...
Aloe vera, Powder monograph & interactionsForskolin Complex
Interacts with915 drugs
Coleus is a plant from the mint family whose root contains a compound called forskolin, often marketed for weight loss, asthma, and heart health. Whil...
Forskolin Complex monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Hypromellose, Magnesium Stearate, Rice Flour. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Forskolin by Nature's Branch Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Nature's Branch Forskolin contains coleus forskohlii root extract and aloe vera powder, both of which interact with a number of medications.
The most serious concerns are with nitrates and calcium channel blockers (heart medications), where coleus might increase coronary vasodilation and theoretically raise the risk of very low blood pressure or chest symptoms — these are Major severity interactions. Altogether, these interactions span 1,061 individual medications.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Coleus also has Major concerns with certain blood thinners and antiplatelet drugs due to a risk of increased bruising and bleeding. For moderate-severity interactions, coleus may affect how your body processes several classes of drugs — including most blood pressure medications, drugs broken down by your liver's CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 enzymes, warfarin, and other blood thinners.
Aloe vera powder adds its own moderate-level interactions: it may worsen the effects of blood sugar medications (raising the risk of low blood sugar), heart medications like digoxin, diuretics, stimulant laxatives, warfarin, and blood thinners. Aloe can also interact with a small group of drugs processed through the CYP1A2 pathway, though this is Minor severity.
If you take any heart medication, blood pressure drug, blood thinner, diabetes medication, diuretic, or use a stimulant laxative, run your exact medications through the checker below before starting this product.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Forskolin?
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 Forskolin interact with 1,073 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 2 ingredients in Forskolin interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Forskolin Complex Aloe vera, Powder
AmlodipineNorliqva
How Amlodipine interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexAntihypertensive Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with antihypertensive drugs might cause additive blood pressure lowering effects and increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Amlodipine interactionAmlodipine BenzoateKaterzia
How Amlodipine Benzoate interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCalcium Channel Blockers, Antihypertensive Drugs +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with calcium channel blockers might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Amlodipine Benzoate interactionAmlodipine BesilateIstin
How Amlodipine Besilate interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexAntihypertensive Drugs, Calcium Channel Blockers +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with antihypertensive drugs might cause additive blood pressure lowering effects and increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Amlodipine Besilate interactionAmlodipine BesylateNorvasc
How Amlodipine Besylate interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Calcium Channel Blockers +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking coleus might decrease serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Amlodipine Besylate interactionAmlodipine Besylate, BenazeprilLotrel
How Amlodipine Besylate, Benazepril interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexAntihypertensive Drugs, Calcium Channel Blockers +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with antihypertensive drugs might cause additive blood pressure lowering effects and increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Amlodipine Besylate, Benazepril interactionAmlodipine, CelecoxibConsensi
How Amlodipine, Celecoxib interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates, Calcium Channel Blockers +2 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking coleus may affect drugs metabolized by CYP2C9 and increase the risk of adverse effects or reduce the effectiveness.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Amlodipine, Celecoxib interactionBepridilVascor
How Bepridil interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Calcium Channel Blockers Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking coleus might decrease serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Bepridil interactionDigoxinDigitek, Lanoxicaps, Lanoxin
How Digoxin interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Aloe Vera, PowderDigoxin (lanoxin) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, aloe latex might increase the risk of adverse effects when taken with cardiac glycosides.
Read the full Aloe Vera, Powder + Digoxin interactionDiltiazemAdizem-SR, Adizem-XL, Angitil SR, Angitil XL, Calcicard CR, Cardizem +23 more
How Diltiazem interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Antihypertensive Drugs +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking coleus might decrease serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Diltiazem interactionDiltiazem, EnalaprilTeczem
How Diltiazem, Enalapril interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCalcium Channel Blockers, Antihypertensive Drugs +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with calcium channel blockers might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Diltiazem, Enalapril interactionEnalapril Maleate, FelodipineLexxel
How Enalapril Maleate, Felodipine interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexAntihypertensive Drugs, Calcium Channel Blockers +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with antihypertensive drugs might cause additive blood pressure lowering effects and increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Enalapril Maleate, Felodipine interactionFelodipinePlendil, Renedil
How Felodipine interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Calcium Channel Blockers +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking coleus might decrease serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Felodipine interactionGlyceryl TrinitrateNitronal
How Glyceryl Trinitrate interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexNitrates Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with nitrates might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Glyceryl Trinitrate interactionIsosorbide DinitrateAngitak, Cedocard Retard, Isoket, Isoket Retard, Isordil
How Isosorbide Dinitrate interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexNitrates Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with nitrates might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Isosorbide Dinitrate interactionIsosorbide Dinitrate, HydralazineBiDil
How Isosorbide Dinitrate, Hydralazine interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexNitrates, Antihypertensive Drugs Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with nitrates might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Isosorbide Dinitrate, Hydralazine interactionIsosorbide MononitrateAngeze, Angeze SR, Chemydur 60XL, Dynamin, Elantan, Elantan LA +13 more
How Isosorbide Mononitrate interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexNitrates Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with nitrates might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Isosorbide Mononitrate interactionIsradipineDynacirc CR
How Isradipine interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexAntihypertensive Drugs, Calcium Channel Blockers +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with antihypertensive drugs might cause additive blood pressure lowering effects and increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Isradipine interactionLercanidipine HydrochlorideZanidip
How Lercanidipine Hydrochloride interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Antihypertensive Drugs +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking coleus might decrease serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Lercanidipine Hydrochloride interactionLevamlodipineConjupri
How Levamlodipine interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Calcium Channel Blockers +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking coleus might decrease serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Levamlodipine interactionNicardipineCardene, Cardene IV, Cardene SR
How Nicardipine interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Calcium Channel Blockers +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking coleus might decrease serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Nicardipine interactionNicorandilAprior, Dancor, Ikorel, Sigmart, Zynicor
How Nicorandil interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexNitrates Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with nitrates might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Nicorandil interactionNifedipineAdalat, Adalat CC, Adalat LA, Adalat PA, Adalat Retard, Adalat XL +15 more
How Nifedipine interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexAntihypertensive Drugs, Calcium Channel Blockers +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with antihypertensive drugs might cause additive blood pressure lowering effects and increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Nifedipine interactionNisoldipineSular
How Nisoldipine interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCalcium Channel Blockers, Antihypertensive Drugs +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with calcium channel blockers might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Nisoldipine interactionNitrendipineCardif
How Nitrendipine interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCalcium Channel Blockers, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with calcium channel blockers might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Nitrendipine interactionNitroglycerinGonitro, Nitro Time, Nitro-Bid, Nitrocine Timecaps, Nitrogard, Nitrogard SR +7 more
How Nitroglycerin interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexNitrates Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with nitrates might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Nitroglycerin interactionPentaerythritol TetranitratePeritrate, Peritrate SA
How Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexNitrates Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with nitrates might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate interactionPerindopril Arginine, AmlodipinePrestalia
How Perindopril Arginine, Amlodipine interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexAntihypertensive Drugs, Calcium Channel Blockers +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with antihypertensive drugs might cause additive blood pressure lowering effects and increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Perindopril Arginine, Amlodipine interactionTelmisartan, AmlodipineTwynsta
How Telmisartan, Amlodipine interacts with Forskolin — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexAntihypertensive Drugs, Calcium Channel Blockers +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with antihypertensive drugs might cause additive blood pressure lowering effects and increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Telmisartan, Amlodipine interactionTrandolapril, VerapamilTarka
How Trandolapril, Verapamil interacts with Forskolin — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexAntihypertensive Drugs, Calcium Channel Blockers +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with antihypertensive drugs might cause additive blood pressure lowering effects and increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Trandolapril, Verapamil interactionAloe Vera, PowderCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, aloe might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Aloe Vera, Powder + Trandolapril, Verapamil interactionVerapamilCalan, Calan SR, Covera HS, Isoptin, Isoptin SR, Veramil +3 more
How Verapamil interacts with Forskolin — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Forskolin ComplexCalcium Channel Blockers, Antihypertensive Drugs +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining coleus with calcium channel blockers might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Read the full Forskolin Complex + Verapamil interactionAloe Vera, PowderCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, aloe might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
Read the full Aloe Vera, Powder + Verapamil interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Forskolin 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.
Forskolin Complex
Calcium Channel Blockers
Theoretically, combining coleus with calcium channel blockers might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Forskolin, a constituent of coleus, and calcium channel blockers both cause coronary vasodilatory effects.
Nitrates
Theoretically, combining coleus with nitrates might increase the coronary vasodilatory effects.
Forskolin, a constituent of coleus, and nitrates both cause coronary vasodilatory effects.
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Theoretically, concomitant use of coleus and anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
In vitro and animal research shows that forskolin, a constituent of coleus, can inhibit platelet aggregation and adhesion.
Antihypertensive Drugs
Theoretically, combining coleus with antihypertensive drugs might cause additive blood pressure lowering effects and increase the risk of hypotension.
Animal research shows that forskolin, a constituent of coleus, may lower blood pressure.
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates
Theoretically, taking coleus may affect drugs metabolized by CYP2C9 and increase the risk of adverse effects or reduce the effectiveness.
Research on the effect of coleus on CYP2C9 is conflicting. Some animal research shows that coleus extract can induce CYP2C9, while in vitro research shows that coleus can inhibit CYP2C9. Until more is known, advise patients that taking coleus might increase or decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, taking coleus might decrease serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research shows that coleus can activate the nuclear receptor, pregnane X receptor (PXR), which results in increased expression of CYP3A4. Although the clinical significance of this is not known, use caution when considering concomitant use of coleus and other drugs affected by these enzymes.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Theoretically, taking coleus may affect the metabolism of warfarin and increase the risk of adverse effects or reduce the effectiveness.
Some animal research shows that coleus extract can induce cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9), an enzyme that metabolizes warfarin. However, other in vitro research shows that coleus can inhibit CYP2C9. Theoretically, taking coleus with drugs metabolized by CYP2C9 might affect drug levels and the risk of adverse effects. Until more is known, advise patients that taking coleus might increase or decrease levels of warfarin.
Aloe vera, Powder
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Theoretically, aloe latex might increase the risk of adverse effects when taken with cardiac glycosides.
Overuse of aloe latex can increase the risk of adverse effects from cardiac glycoside drugs, such as digoxin, due to potassium depletion. Overuse of aloe, along with cardiac glycoside drugs, can increase the risk of toxicity.
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Theoretically, aloe gel might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro research shows that aloe gel can inhibit platelet aggregation. This inhibition was greater than that seen with celecoxib, but less than that seen with aspirin.
Antidiabetes Drugs
Aloe might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Preliminary clinical research suggests aloe gel might lower blood glucose levels and have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs. Monitor blood glucose levels closely.
Diuretic Drugs
Theoretically, aloe latex might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with diuretic drugs.
Overuse of aloe latex might compound diuretic-induced potassium loss, increasing the risk of hypokalemia.
Stimulant Laxatives
Theoretically, aloe latex might increase the risk for fluid and electrolyte loss when taken with stimulant laxatives.
Due to cathartic laxative effects of aloe latex, concomitant use with other stimulant laxatives might compound fluid and electrolyte loss.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Theoretically, aloe latex might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin.
Aloe latex has stimulant laxative effects. In some people aloe latex can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea can increase the effects of warfarin, increase international normalized ratio (INR), and increase the risk of bleeding. Advise patients who take warfarin not to take excessive amounts of aloe vera.
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates
Theoretically, aloe might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that aloe extract induces CYP1A2 enzymes.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Forskolin, from the product label.
Nature's Branch
See all Nature's Branch products- Name
- Nature's Branch
- Street Address
- 3482 SW 15th Street Suite #9355
- City
- Deerfield Beach
- State
- FL
- ZipCode
- 33442
- Web Address
- www.naturesbranch.com
Forskolin by Nature's Branch: Common Questions
Does Forskolin by Nature's Branch interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Can I take this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
What side effects might I experience?
Does this product actually work?
Why are there so many drug interactions?
Is this safe for long-term use?
What are the inactive ingredients?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Forskolin 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 Forskolin’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Aloe
Interacts with 461 drugsAloe vera gel is widely used on the skin for minor burns and irritation, and some research suggests it may help. Aloe latex (the yellow part) is a strong laxative that can cause cramping and...
Read the full Aloe monograph → Herb & supplement monographColeus
Interacts with 915 drugsColeus is a plant from the mint family whose root contains a compound called forskolin, often marketed for weight loss, asthma, and heart health. While early lab and small human studies are...
Read the full Coleus monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Forskolin'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.
Coleus 16 references
- Baumann G, Felix S, Sattelberger U, Klein G. Cardiovascular effects of forskolin (HL-362) in patients with idiopathic congestiv cardiomyopathy. A comparative study with dobutamine and sodium nitroprusside. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 1990;16:93-100.
- Kramer W, Thormann J, Kindler M, Schlepper M. Effects of forskolin on left ventricular function in dilated cardiomyopathy. Arzneimittelforschung 1987;37:364-7.
- Bauer K, Dietersdorfer F, Kaspar S, et al. Pharmacodynamic effects of inhaled dry powder formulations of fenoterol and colforsin in asthma. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1993;53:76-83. PubMed
- Christenson JT, Thulesius O, Nazzal MM. The effect of forskolin on blood flow, platelet metabolism, aggregation and ATP release. Vasa 1995;24:56-61.
- Agarwal KC, Zielinski BA, Maitra RS. Significance of plasma adenosine in the antiplatelet activity of forskolin: potentiation by dipyridamole and dilazep. Thromb Haemost 1989;61:106-10. DOI
- Agarwal KC, Parks RE. Forskolin: a potential antimetastatic agent. Int J Cancer 1983;32:801-4. PubMed
- Almeida, F. C. and Lemonica, I. P. The toxic effects of Coleus barbatus B. on the different periods of pregnancy in rats. J Ethnopharmacol 2000;73(1-2):53-60. PubMed
- Ding, X. and Staudinger, J. L. Induction of drug metabolism by forskolin: the role of the pregnane X receptor and the protein kinase a signal transduction pathway. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2005;312(2):849-856. PubMed
- Staudinger, J. L., Ding, X., and Lichti, K. Pregnane X receptor and natural products: beyond drug-drug interactions. Expert.Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2006;2(6):847-857. PubMed
- van Hecke, E., Hindryckx, P., Geuns, J. M., and Devriese, E. Airborne contact dermatitis from coleus in a housewife. Contact Dermatitis 1991;25(2):128-129. PubMed
- Schlepper, M., Thormann, J., and Mitrovic, V. Cardiovascular effects of forskolin and phosphodiesterase-III inhibitors. Basic Res Cardiol 1989;84 Suppl 1:197-212. PubMed
- Dooms-Goossens, A., Borghijs, A., Degreef, H., Devriese, E. G., and Geuns, J. M. Airborne contact dermatitis to Coleus. Contact Dermatitis 1987;17(2):109-110. PubMed
- Lindner, E., Dohadwalla, A. N., and Bhattacharya, B. K. Positive inotropic and blood pressure lowering activity of a diterpene derivative isolated from Coleus forskohli: Forskolin. Arzneimittelforschung 1978;28(2):284-289.
- Loftus HL, Astell KJ, Mathai ML, et al. Coleus forskohlii Extract Supplementation in Conjunction with a Hypocaloric Diet Reduces the Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome in Overweight and Obese Subjects: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2015;7(11): PubMed
- Yokotani K, Chiba T, Sato Y, et al. Hepatic cytochrome P450 mediates interaction between warfarin and Coleus forskohlii extract in vivo and in vitro. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2012;64(12):1793-801.
- Nishijima C, Chiba T, Sato Y, Umegaki K. Nationwide Online Survey Enables the Reevaluation of the Safety of Coleus forskohlii Extract Intake Based on the Adverse Event Frequencies. Nutrients. 2019;11(4). pii: E866. PubMed
Aloe 41 references
- Newall CA, Anderson LA, Philpson JD. Herbal Medicine: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London, UK: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.
- Wichtl MW. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals. Ed. N.M. Bisset. Stuttgart: Medpharm GmbH Scientific Publishers, 1994.
- Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
- Nusko G, Schneider B, Schneider I, et al. Anthranoid laxative use is not a risk factor for colorectal neoplasia: results of a prospective case control study. Gut 2000;46:651-5. PubMed
- Luyckx VA, Ballantine R, Claeys M, et al. Herbal remedy-associated acute renal failure secondary to Cape aloes. Am J Kidney Dis 2002;39:E13. PubMed
- Rajasekaran S, Sivagnanam K, Ravi K, Subramanian S. Hypoglycemic effect of Aloe vera gel on streptozotocin-induced diabetes in experimental rats. J Med Food 2004;7:61-6.
- Williams MS, Burk M, Loprinzi CL, et al. Phase III double-blind evaluation of an aloe vera gel as a prophylactic agent for radiation-induced skin toxicity. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 1996;36:345-9. PubMed
- Vogler BK, Ernst E. Aloe vera: a systematic review of its clinical effectiveness. Br J Gen Pract 1999;49:823-8.
- Bottenberg MM, Wall GC, Harvey RL, Habib S. Oral aloe vera-induced hepatitis. Ann Pharmacother 2007;41:1740-3. PubMed
- Rabe C, Musch A, Schirmacher P, et al. Acute hepatitis induced by an Aloe vera preparation: a case report. World J Gastroenterol 2005;11:303-4. PubMed
- Kanat O, Ozet A, Ataergin S. Aloe vera-induced acute toxic hepatitis in a healthy young man. Eur J Int Med 2006;17:589. PubMed
- Mueller SO, Stopper H. Characterization of the genotoxicity of anthraquinones in mammalian cells. Biochim Biophys Acta 1999;1428:406-14. PubMed
- Schorkhuber M, Richter M, Dutter A, et al. Effect of anthraquinone laxatives on the proliferation and urokinase secretion of normal, premalignant and malignant colonic epithelial cells. Eur J Cancer 1998;34:1091-8. PubMed
- Yang HN, Kim DJ, Kim YM, et al. Aloe-induced toxic hepatitis. J Korean Med Sci 2010;25:492-5. PubMed
- Choonhakarn C, Busaracome P, Sripanidkulchai B, et al. A prospective, randomized clinical trial comparing topical aloe vera with 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide in mild to moderate plaque psoriasis. J.Eur.Acad.Dermatol.Venereol. 2010;24:168-72. PubMed
- Ishii Y, Tanizawa H, Takino Y. Studies of aloe. IV. Mechanism of cathartic effect. (3). Biol Pharm Bull. 1994;17:495-7. PubMed
- Ishii Y, Tanizawa H, Takino Y. Studies of aloe. V. Mechanism of cathartic effect. (4). Biol Pharm Bull. 1994;17:651-3. PubMed
- Nelemans FA. Clinical and toxicological aspects of anthraquinone laxatives. Pharmacology. 1976;14 Suppl 1:73-7. PubMed
- Paulsen E, Korsholm L, Brandrup F. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of a commercial Aloe vera gel in the treatment of slight to moderate psoriasis vulgaris. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2005;19:326-31.
- Huseini HF, Kianbakht S, Hajiaghaee R, et al. Anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hypercholesterolemic effects of Aloe vera leaf gel in hyperlipidemic type 2 diabetic patients: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Planta Med. 2012;78:311-6
- Ferreira, M., Teixeira, M., Silva, E., and Selores, M. Allergic contact dermatitis to Aloe vera. Contact Dermatitis 2007;57(4):278-279.
- Choonhakarn, C., Busaracome, P., Sripanidkulchai, B., and Sarakarn, P. The efficacy of aloe vera gel in the treatment of oral lichen planus: a randomized controlled trial. Br J Dermatol 2008;158(3):573-577. PubMed
- Baretta, Z., Ghiotto, C., Marino, D., and Jirillo, A. Aloe-induced hypokalemia in a patient with breast cancer during chemotherapy. Ann.Oncol. 2009;20(8):1445-1446. PubMed
- Hunter, D. and Frumkin, A. Adverse reactions to vitamin E and aloe vera preparations after dermabrasion and chemical peel. Cutis 1991;47(3):193-196.
- Alvarez-Perea, A., Garcia, A. P., Hernandez, A. L., de, Barrio M., and Baeza, M. L. Urticaria due to aloe vera: a new sensitizer? Ann.Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2010;105(5):404-405. PubMed
- Hogan, D. J. Widespread dermatitis after topical treatment of chronic leg ulcers and stasis dermatitis. CMAJ. 2-15-1988;138(4):336-338.
- Savchak VI. Acute bullous allergic dermatitis due to local application of aloe leaves. Vestnik Dermatologii i Venerologii 1977;12:44-45.
- Nakamura, T. and Kotajima, S. Contact dermatitis from aloe arborescens. Contact Dermatitis 1984;11(1):51. PubMed
- Shoji, A. Contact dermatitis to Aloe arborescens. Contact Dermatitis 1982;8(3):164-167. PubMed
- Morrow, D. M., Rapaport, M. J., and Strick, R. A. Hypersensitivity to aloe. Arch Dermatol. 1980;116(9):1064-1065. DOI
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Final report on the safety assessment of AloeAndongensis Extract, Aloe Andongensis Leaf Juice,aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract, Aloe Arborescens Leaf Juice, Aloe Arborescens Leaf Protoplasts, Aloe Barbadensis Flower E
- Bhalang K, Thunyakitpisal P, Rungsirisatean N. Acemannan, a polysaccharide extracted from Aloe vera, is effective in the treatment of oral aphthous ulceration. J Altern Complement Med 2013;19(5):429-34.
- Hajheydari Z, Saeedi M, Morteza-Semnani K, Soltani A. Effect of Aloe vera topical gel combined with tretinoin in treatment of mild and moderate acne vulgaris: a randomized, double-blind, prospective trial. J Dermatolog Treat 2014;25(2):123-9.
- Jiménez-Encarnación E, Ríos G, Muñoz-Mirabal A, Vilá LM. Euforia-induced acute hepatitis in a patient with scleroderma. BMJ Case Rep 2012;2012. PubMed
- Lee J, Lee MS, Nam KW. Acute toxic hepatitis caused by an aloe vera preparation in a young patient: a case report with a literature review. Korean J Gastroenterol 2014;64(1):54-8. PubMed
- Guo X, Mei N. Aloe Vera - A Review of Toxicity and Adverse Clinical Effects. J Environ Sci Health C Environ Carcinog Ecotoxicol Rev 2016;34(2):77-96.
- Hoogenboom TCH, Patel N, Cook NA, Williams R, Taylor-Robinson SD, Lim AKP. The effect of Aloe vera juice on liver enzymes and hepatic structure in a healthy population. Integr Med (Encinitas) 2020;19(3):30-4.
- Mushtaq S, Mushtaq Z, Sarfraz J, et al. Comparison of effect of aloe vera gel with aspirin and celecoxib on platelet aggregation. Professional Med J. 2020; 27(5):973-978. DOI
- Haron MH, Dale O, Martin K, et al. Evaluation of the Herb-Drug Interaction Potential of Commonly Used Botanicals on the US Market with Regard to PXR- and AhR-Mediated Influences on CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. J Diet Suppl 2022. PubMed
- Sabbaghzadegan S, Soltani MH, Kamalinejad M, Bahrami M, Kabir A, Dadmehr M. The effect of a standardized capsule of Aloe vera gel on the quality of life in patients with systolic heart failure: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.
- Lewis ED, Crowley DC, Guthrie N, Evans M. Healthy adults supplemented with a nutraceutical formulation containing Aloe vera gel, rosemary and Poria cocos enhances the effect of influenza vaccination in a randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial. PubMed
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DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
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