Ginseng Complex Ingredients & Drug Interactions
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Ginseng Complex 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
Ginseng Complex is a dietary supplement by The Vitamin Shoppe with 5 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for stress and energy support, immune support and colds, blood sugar management.Based on those ingredients, 1,260 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Eleuthero extract, American Ginseng, Royal Jelly extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Ginseng Complex by The Vitamin Shoppe
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Ginseng Complex by The Vitamin Shoppe
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Full disclosure
Ginseng Complex contains 5 active ingredients: red Chinese ginseng, American ginseng, Korean ginseng, eleuthero extract, and royal jelly extract. The product also includes inactive ingredients — gelatin (capsule), magnesium stearate (lubricant), and silicon dioxide — that don't have a therapeutic role.
These ginsengs and eleuthero have traditionally been used as adaptogens — plant compounds believed to help the body respond to stress — though the evidence for specific effects varies. Royal jelly is a secretion from honeybees often promoted for general wellness.
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
American ginseng is rated Possibly Effective for upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) — the common cold and similar illnesses. For anemia of chronic disease and breast cancer, the evidence isn't strong enough to rate it.
Eleuthero is Possibly Effective for genital herpes but Insufficient in evidence for familial Mediterranean fever, bipolar disorder, osteoporosis, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Royal jelly is Possibly Effective for menopausal symptoms but Possibly Ineffective for hay fever, physical performance, and diabetes; evidence for hair loss is too weak to rate.
The ginsengs we could not check — red Chinese and Korean — have no effectiveness ratings in our data.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
American ginseng and eleuthero are generally well tolerated short-term in healthy adults, though long-term safety isn't well studied. Eleuthero may cause diarrhea, heartburn, headache, nausea, or rash, and nervousness or anxiety — especially at higher doses.
It has also been reported to raise blood pressure in some people, particularly those with heart conditions, though contamination of some products is a possible factor. Royal jelly is generally well tolerated but can trigger serious allergic reactions in people with a history of asthma or allergies, including breathing trouble, hives, swelling, and in rare cases anaphylaxis or death; it may also cause stomach upset.
Both American ginseng and eleuthero advise against use in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. Royal jelly similarly should be avoided in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Meds to double-check
Major interaction found
Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product if you use warfarin or other blood thinners (Major risk with American ginseng, Moderate with royal jelly). Also double-check it if you take blood pressure medications, diabetes drugs, immunosuppressants, heart medications like digoxin, or MAOIs (older antidepressants).
Do not combine it with these without clearing it first.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence behind its ingredients' uses. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
This product may appeal to someone looking for traditional immune or stress support, but it has serious interactions — especially if you take blood thinners, blood pressure drugs, diabetes medications, or older antidepressants. If you have asthma or a history of allergies, royal jelly in this blend carries real risk of a severe reaction.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your medications and health history before starting, and do not stop or change any blood thinner or other medication without their input.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 3 of 5 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jun 24, 2016.
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 Ginseng Complex, straight from the product label.
| Brand | The Vitamin Shoppe |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 766536020768 |
| Net contents | 100 Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Jun 24, 2016 |
| DSLD ID | 60245 |
| Product type | Botanical |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), 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 Ginseng Complex by The Vitamin Shoppe, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Red Chinese Ginseng | 200 mg | -- |
| American Ginseng | 200 mg | -- |
| Korean Ginseng | 200 mg | -- |
| Eleuthero extract | 200 mg | -- |
| Royal Jelly extract | 67 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Gelatin, Magnesium Stearate, Silicon Dioxide
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
General Statements
Herb
A blend of whole adaptogenic herbs Energy Vitality
Actual size
Visit www.vitaminshoppe.com or call 1-800-223-1216 for more information and to reorder.
Learn more at vsquality.net
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
Formulation
Gluten free Dairy free Soy free Nut free
Does not contain: Yeast, Wheat, Gluten, Salt, Soy, Dairy, Citrus, Fish, Preservatives, Artificial Colors or Flavors.
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.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Directions: As a dietary supplement, take one (1) capsule daily, preferably with a meal.
Precautions
Warning: Consult your healthcare provider prior to use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medication or have any medical conditions.
Keep out of reach of children.
Tamper evident Do not use if outer seal is broken or missing.
This product contains royal jelly. Bee products can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place.
General
Item No. VS-2076 1072392 BQ 52
Formula
This product contains royal jelly.
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Ginseng Complex by The Vitamin Shoppe 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 Ginseng Complex by The Vitamin Shoppe
These are the 5 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule 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.
Red Chinese Ginseng
American Ginseng
Interacts with217 drugs
American ginseng is an herbal root used as an 'adaptogen' to support energy, stress, immune function, and blood sugar. Some uses—such as reducing the...
American Ginseng monograph & interactionsKorean Ginseng
Eleuthero extract
Interacts with1,140 drugs
Eleuthero is an herb traditionally used as an 'adaptogen' to fight fatigue, boost energy, and help the body handle stress. The scientific evidence beh...
Eleuthero extract monograph & interactionsRoyal Jelly extract
Interacts with174 drugs
Royal jelly is a nutrient-rich substance made by worker bees to feed the queen bee. People take it for menopause symptoms, energy, skin, and immune su...
Royal Jelly extract monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Gelatin, Magnesium Stearate, Silicon Dioxide. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Ginseng Complex by The Vitamin Shoppe Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Ginseng Complex by The Vitamin Shoppe contains American ginseng, eleuthero extract, and royal jelly — all three have documented interactions with medications.
The most serious concern is American ginseng's Major interaction with warfarin (Coumadin), a blood thinner: the ginseng seems to reduce warfarin's effectiveness, lowering your blood's clotting protection.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
American ginseng also carries Moderate interactions with blood sugar medications (antidiabetes drugs), as it may lower blood glucose and raise the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). It can interfere with immune-suppressing drugs and with MAOIs (a class of older antidepressants like phenelzine), based on case reports of insomnia, headache, tremors, and mood swings.
Eleuthero extract has Moderate interactions with several drug types: it may increase levels of medications cleared by your liver (CYP1A2 and CYP2C9 substrates), increase digoxin (a heart drug) levels, and theoretically interfere with blood thinners (anticoagulants), immune-suppressing drugs, and blood sugar medications. A Minor interaction with CYP2D6 substrates was noted in animal and lab studies but not confirmed in humans.
Royal jelly carries Moderate interactions with blood pressure medications (it may lower blood pressure further) and with warfarin (it may increase bleeding risk, based on one case report). We could not check Red Chinese Ginseng or Korean Ginseng — interaction data is not on file for them.
Use the medication checker on this page to search your exact drugs before starting.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Ginseng Complex?
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 Ginseng Complex interact with 1,260 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
3 of the 5 ingredients in Ginseng Complex interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Eleuthero extract American Ginseng Royal Jelly extract
Ado-trastuzumab EmtansineKadcyla
How Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interactionAbemaciclibVerzenio
How Abemaciclib interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Abemaciclib interactionAbiraterone
How Abiraterone interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Abiraterone interactionAbiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
How Abiraterone Acetate interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Abiraterone Acetate interactionAdagrasibKrazati
How Adagrasib interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Adagrasib interactionAlfentanilAlfenta
How Alfentanil interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Alfentanil interactionAlfuzosinUroxatral
How Alfuzosin interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Alfuzosin interactionAlmotriptanAlmogran, Axert
How Almotriptan interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Almotriptan interactionAlpelisibPiqray
How Alpelisib interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Alpelisib interactionAlprazolamNiravam, Xanax
How Alprazolam interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Alprazolam interactionAmiodaroneCordarone, Pacerone
How Amiodarone interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Amiodarone interactionAmphetamine Aspartate, Amphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Dextroamphetamine SulfateAdderall, Adderall XR
How Amphetamine Aspartate, Amphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Dextroamphetamine Sulfate interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Amphetamine Aspartate, Amphetamine Sulfate, Dextroamphetamine Saccharate, Dextroamphetamine Sulfate interactionAmphetamine SulfateBenzedrine, Evekeo ODT
How Amphetamine Sulfate interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Amphetamine Sulfate interactionApalutamideErleada
How Apalutamide interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Apalutamide interactionApremilastOtezla
How Apremilast interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Apremilast interactionAprepitantCinvanti, Emend
How Aprepitant interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Aprepitant interactionAripiprazoleAbilify, Abilify Maintena, Abilify Mycite
How Aripiprazole interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Aripiprazole interactionAripiprazole LauroxilAristada, Aristada Initio Kit
How Aripiprazole Lauroxil interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Aripiprazole Lauroxil interactionAtazanavirReyataz
How Atazanavir interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Atazanavir interactionAtazanavir, CobicistatEvotaz
How Atazanavir, Cobicistat interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Atazanavir, Cobicistat interactionAtomoxetineStrattera
How Atomoxetine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Atomoxetine interactionAtorvastatinAtorvaliq
How Atorvastatin interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Organic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp) Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Atorvastatin interactionAtorvastatin CalciumLipitor
How Atorvastatin Calcium interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractOrganic Anion-transporting Polypeptide Substrates (oatp), Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by OATP.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Atorvastatin Calcium interactionAtropine, Chlorpheniramine, Hyoscyamine, Phenylephrine, Phenylpropanolamine, ScopolamineAtrohist Plus, Pro Tuss, Ru-tuss, Stahist
How Atropine, Chlorpheniramine, Hyoscyamine, Phenylephrine, Phenylpropanolamine, Scopolamine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Atropine, Chlorpheniramine, Hyoscyamine, Phenylephrine, Phenylpropanolamine, Scopolamine interactionAtropine, MeperidineAtropine, Meperidine
How Atropine, Meperidine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Atropine, Meperidine interactionAvacopanTavneos
How Avacopan interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Avacopan interactionAvanafilStendra
How Avanafil interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Avanafil interactionAvapritinibAyvakit
How Avapritinib interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Avapritinib interactionAxitinibInlyta
How Axitinib interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Axitinib interactionAzelastine Hydrochloride, Fluticasone PropionateDymista
How Azelastine Hydrochloride, Fluticasone Propionate interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Azelastine Hydrochloride, Fluticasone Propionate interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Ginseng Complex 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.
Eleuthero extract
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Theoretically, eleuthero may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro and animal research shows that a constituent of eleuthero, dihydroxybenzoic acid, appears to inhibit platelet aggregation. Concomitant use with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, eleuthero might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs.
Animal research suggests that certain constituents of eleuthero have hypoglycemic activity in both healthy and diabetic animals. A small study in adults with type 2 diabetes also shows that taking eleuthero for 3 months can lower blood glucose levels. However, one very small study in healthy individuals shows that taking powdered eleuthero 3 grams, 40 minutes prior to a 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test, significantly increases postprandial blood glucose levels when compared with placebo. These contradictory findings might be due to patient-specific variability and variability in active ingredient ratios.
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
In vitro and animal research suggest that standardized extracts of eleuthero inhibit CYP1A2. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
In vitro and animal research suggest that standardized extracts of eleuthero might inhibit CYP2C9. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Eleuthero might increase serum digoxin levels and increase the risk of side effects.
In one case report, a 74-year-old male who was stabilized on digoxin presented with an elevated serum digoxin level after starting an eleuthero supplement, without symptoms of toxicity. After stopping the supplement, serum digoxin levels returned to normal. It is not clear whether this was due to a pharmacokinetic interaction or to interference with the digoxin assay. Although the product was found to be free of digoxin and digitoxin, it was not tested for other contaminants.
Immunosuppressants
Theoretically, eleuthero might interfere with immunosuppressive drugs because of its immunostimulant activity.
Animal and in vitro research shows that eleuthero extracts have immunomodulatory effects, including increasing cellular and humoral activity.
P-Glycoprotein Substrates
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
In vitro research suggests that eleuthero can inhibit the multi-drug transporter protein, P-glycoprotein. However, it is too soon to tell if this is clinically important. This interaction has not been reported in humans.
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro and animal research suggest that standardized extracts of eleuthero might inhibit CYP2D6. However, research in healthy human volunteers has found that taking eleuthero 485 mg twice daily for 14 days does not inhibit CYP2D6 drug metabolism.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro and animal research suggest that standardized extracts of eleuthero might inhibit CYP3A4. However, research in healthy human volunteers has found that taking eleuthero 485 mg twice daily for 14 days does not inhibit CYP3A4 drug metabolism.
Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide Substrates (Oatp)
Theoretically, eleuthero might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by OATP.
In vitro research suggests that eleuthero inhibits OATP2B1, which might reduce the bioavailability of oral drugs that are substrates of OATP2B1. Due to the weak inhibitory effect identified in this study, this interaction is not likely to be clinically significant.
American Ginseng
Warfarin (Coumadin)
American ginseng seems to decrease the effectiveness of warfarin therapy.
Healthy patients receiving warfarin 5 mg daily, who also take American ginseng 1 gram twice daily, seem to have a significantly reduced international normalized ratio (INR).
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, taking American ginseng with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
American ginseng seems to lower postprandial blood glucose. Theoretically, concomitant use with antidiabetes drugs might enhance blood glucose lowering effects and possibly cause hypoglycemia.
Immunosuppressants
Theoretically, American ginseng use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
American ginseng seems to stimulate immune function. Theoretically, American ginseng might decrease the effectiveness of immunosuppressant drugs.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Maois)
Theoretically, American ginseng can interfere with MAOI therapy.
There is one case report of insomnia, headache, and tremors when an unspecified ginseng product was used with phenelzine (Nardil), an MAOI. There is also one case report of hypomania when an unspecified ginseng product was used with phenelzine. Theoretically, American ginseng may interfere with MAOI therapy.
Royal Jelly extract
Antihypertensive Drugs
Theoretically, royal jelly might increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Animal research suggests that royal jelly might lower blood pressure.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Royal jelly might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin.
In one case, an 87-year-old male who was previously stabilized on warfarin developed hematuria and was found to have an INR of 7.29 after taking a royal jelly supplement for one week.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Ginseng Complex, from the product label.
The Vitamin Shoppe
See all The Vitamin Shoppe products- Name
- Vitamin Shoppe, Inc.
- City
- Secaucus
- State
- NJ
- ZipCode
- 07094
- Phone Number
- 1-800-223-1216
- Web Address
- www.vitaminshoppe.com
Ginseng Complex by The Vitamin Shoppe: Common Questions
Does Ginseng Complex by The Vitamin Shoppe 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 actually work for colds or immunity?
Should I be concerned about which brand this is?
Why can't you check red Chinese or Korean ginseng for interactions?
What does 'generally well tolerated' mean?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Ginseng Complex is safe with your meds?
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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind Ginseng Complex’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
American Ginseng
Interacts with 217 drugsAmerican ginseng is an herbal root used as an 'adaptogen' to support energy, stress, immune function, and blood sugar. Some uses—such as reducing the chance or length of colds and modestly l...
Read the full American Ginseng monograph → Herb & supplement monographEleuthero
Interacts with 1,140 drugsEleuthero is an herb traditionally used as an 'adaptogen' to fight fatigue, boost energy, and help the body handle stress. The scientific evidence behind these uses is limited and mixed, so...
Read the full Eleuthero monograph → Herb & supplement monographRoyal Jelly
Interacts with 174 drugsRoyal jelly is a nutrient-rich substance made by worker bees to feed the queen bee. People take it for menopause symptoms, energy, skin, and immune support, but solid human evidence is limit...
Read the full Royal Jelly monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Ginseng Complex'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 50 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.
American Ginseng 12 references
- Shader RI, Greenblatt DJ. Phenelzine and the dream machine-ramblings and reflections. J Clin Psychopharmacol 1985;5:65. PubMed
- Jones BD, Runikis AM. Interaction of ginseng with phenelzine. J Clin Psychopharmacol 1987;7:201-2. PubMed
- Janetzky K, Morreale AP. Probable interaction between warfarin and ginseng. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1997;54:692-3. PubMed
- Vuksan V, Sievenpiper JL, Koo VY, et al. American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L) reduces postprandial glycemia in nondiabetic subjects and subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Arch Intern Med 2000;160:1009-13. PubMed
- Vuksan V, Stavro MP, Sievenpiper JL, et al. Similar postprandial glycemic reductions with escalation of dose and administration time of American ginseng in type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care 2000;23:1221-6. PubMed
- Chan LY, Chiu PY, Lau TK. An in-vitro study of ginsenoside Rb(1)-induced teratogenicity using a whole rat embryo culture model. Hum Reprod 2003;18:2166-8..
- McElhaney JE, Gravenstein S, Cole SK, et al. A Placebo-Controlled Trial of a Proprietary Extract of North American Ginseng (CVT-E002) to Prevent Acute Respiratory Illness in Institutionalized Older Adults. J Am Geriatr Soc 2004;52:13-9. PubMed
- Yuan CS, Wei G, Dey L, et al. American ginseng reduces warfarin's effect in healthy patients: a randomized, controlled trial. Ann Intern Med 2004;141:23-7.
- Predy GN, Goel V, Lovlin R, et al. Efficacy of an extract of North American ginseng containing poly-furanosyl-pyranosyl-saccharides for preventing upper respiratory tract infections: a randomized controlled trial. CMAJ 2005;173:1043-8.. PubMed
- McElhaney JE, Goel V, Toane B, et al. Efficacy of COLD-fX in the prevention of respiratory symptoms in community-dwelling adults: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo controlled trial. J Altern Complement Med 2006;12:153-7. PubMed
- Predy GN, Goel V, Lovlin RE, et al. Immune modulating effects of daily supplementation of COLD-fX (a proprietary extract of North American ginseng) in healthy adults. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2006;39:162-167. DOI
- Stavro PM, Woo M, Leiter LA, et al. Long-term intake of North American ginseng has no effect on 24-hour blood pressure and renal function. Hypertension 2006;47(4):791-6. PubMed
Eleuthero 24 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.
- McRae S. Elevated serum digoxin levels in a patient taking digoxin and Siberian ginseng. CMAJ 1996;155:293-5.
- Awang DVC. Siberian ginseng toxicity may be case of mistaken identity (letter). CMAJ 1996;155:1237.
- Mills S, Bone K. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy. London: Churchill Livingstone, 2000.
- Harkey MR, Henderson GL, Zhou L, et al. Effects of Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) on c-DNA-expressed P450 drug metabolizing enzymes. Alt Ther 2001;7:S14.
- Hikino H, Takahashi M, Otake K, Konno C. Isolation and hypoglycemic activity of eleutherans A, B, C, D, E, F, and G: glycans of Eleutherococcus senticosus roots. J Nat Prod 1986;49:293-7. PubMed
- Yun-Choi HS, Kim JH, Lee JR. Potential inhibitors of platelet aggregation from plant sources, III. J Nat Prod 1987;50:1059-64. PubMed
- Donovan JL, DeVane CL, Chavin KD, et al. Siberian Ginseng (Eleutheroccus senticosus) Effects on CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 Activity in Normal Volunteers. Drug Metab Dispos 2003;31:519-22.. PubMed
- Hartz AJ, Bentler S, Noyes R et al. Randomized controlled trial of Siberian ginseng for chronic fatigue. Psychol Med 2004;34:51-61. PubMed
- Sievenpiper JL, Arnason JT, Leiter LA, Vuksan V. Decreasing, null and increasing effects of eight popular types of ginseng on acute postprandial glycemic indices in healthy humans: the role of ginsenosides. J Am Coll Nutr 2004;23:248-58. PubMed
- Dasgupta A, Wu S, Actor J, et al. Effect of Asian and Siberian ginseng on serum digoxin measurement by five digoxin immunoassays. Significant variation in digoxin-like immunoreactivity among commercial ginsengs. Am J Clin Pathol 2003;119:298-303. DOI
- Takahashi T, Kaku T, Sato T, et al. Effects of Acanthopanax senticosus HARMS extract on drug transport in human intestinal cell line Caco-2. J Nat Med. 2010;64(1):55-62. PubMed
- Fuchikami H, Satoh H, Tsujimoto M, Ohdo S, Ohtani H, Sawada Y. Effects of herbal extracts on the function of human organic anion-transporting polypeptide OATP-B. Drug Metab Dispos 2006;34:577-82. PubMed
- Friedman, J. A., Taylor, S. A., McDermott, W., and Alikhani, P. Multifocal and recurrent subarachnoid hemorrhage due to an herbal supplement containing natural coumarins. Neurocrit.Care 2007;7(1):76-80. PubMed
- Molokovskii, D. S., Davydov, V. V., and Tiulenev, V. V. [The action of adaptogenic plant preparations in experimental alloxan diabetes]. Probl.Endokrinol.(Mosk) 1989;35(6):82-87.
- Schmolz, M. W., Sacher, F., and Aicher, B. The synthesis of Rantes, G-CSF, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-12 and IL-13 in human whole-blood cultures is modulated by an extract from Eleutherococcus senticosus L. roots. Phytother.Res 2001;15(3):268-270.
- Huang, D. B., Ran, R. Z., and Yu, Z. F. [Effect of Acanthopanax senticosus injection on the activities of human tumor necrosis factor and natural killer cell in blood in the patients with lung cancer]. Zhongguo Zhong.Yao Za Zhi. 2005;30(8):621-624.
- Niu, H. S., Hsu, F. L., Liu, I. M., and Cheng, J. T. Increase of beta-endorphin secretion by syringin, an active principle of Eleutherococcus senticosus, to produce antihyperglycemic action in type 1-like diabetic rats. Horm.Metab Res 2007;39(12):894-898
- Watanabe, K., Kamata, K., Sato, J., and Takahashi, T. Fundamental studies on the inhibitory action of Acanthopanax senticosus Harms on glucose absorption. J Ethnopharmacol. 10-28-2010;132(1):193-199. PubMed
- Bazaz'ian, G. G., Liapina, L. A., Pastorova, V. E., and Zvereva, E. G. [Effect of Eleutherococcus on the functional status of the anticoagulation system in older animals]. Fiziol.Zh.SSSR Im I.M.Sechenova 1987;73(10):1390-1395.
- Kaloeva, Z. D. [Effect of the glycosides of Eleutherococcus senticosus on the hemodynamic indices of children with hypotensive states]. Farmakol.Toksikol. 1986;49(5):73.
- Martinez, B. and Staba, E. J. The physiological effects of Aralia, Panax and Eleutherococcus on exercised rats. Jpn J Pharmacol 1984;35(2):79-85. DOI
- Medon, P. J., Thompson, E. B., and Farnsworth, N. R. Hypoglycemic effect and toxicity of Eleutherococcus senticosus following acute and chronic administration in mice. Zhongguo Yao Li Xue.Bao. 1981;2(4):281-285.
- Freye E, GLeske J. Siberian ginseng results in beneficial effects on glucose metabolism in diabetes type 2 patients: a double blind placebo-controlled study in comparison to panax ginseng. Int J Clin Nutr. 2013;1(1):11-17.
Royal Jelly 14 references
- Takahashi M, Matsuo I, Ohkido M. Contact dermatitis due to honeybee royal jelly. Contact Dermatitis 1983;9:452-5.
- Bullock RJ, et al. Fatal royal jelly-induced asthma. Med J Aust 1994;160:44. DOI
- Thien FC, Leung R, Baldo BA, et al. Asthma and anaphylaxis induced by royal jelly. Clin Exp Allergy 1996;26:216-22. PubMed
- Yonei Y, Shibagaki K, Tsukada N, et al. Case report: haemorrhagic colitis associated with royal jelly intake. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 1997;12:495-9.
- Harwood M, Harding S, Beasley R, Frankish PD. Asthma following royal jelly. N Z Med J 1996;109:325.
- Laporte JR, Ibaanez L, Vendrell L, Ballarin E. Bronchospasm induced by royal jelly. Allergy 1996;51:440. DOI
- Leung R, Thien FC, Baldo B, et al. Royal jelly-induced asthma and anaphylaxis: clinical characteristics and immunologic correlations. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1995;96:1004-7. PubMed
- Peacock S, Murray V, Turton C. Respiratory distress and royal jelly. BMJ 1995;311:1472. DOI
- Winther K, Hedman C. Assessment of the Effects of the Herbal Remedy Femal on the Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Curr Ther Res Clin Exp 2002;63:344-53. DOI
- Lee NJ, Fermo JD. Warfarin and royal jelly interaction. Pharmacotherapy 2006;26:583-6. PubMed
- Tokunaga, K. H., Yoshida, C., Suzuki, K. M., Maruyama, H., Futamura, Y., Araki, Y., and Mishima, S. Antihypertensive effect of peptides from royal jelly in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Biol.Pharm.Bull. 2004;27(2):189-192. PubMed
- Sultana, A., Nabi, A. H., Nasir, U. M., Maruyama, H., Suzuki, K. M., Mishima, S., and Suzuki, F. A dipeptide YY derived from royal jelly proteins inhibits renin activity. Int.J.Mol.Med. 2008;21(6):677-681. DOI
- Gómez Torrijos E, Méndez Diaz Y, Borja Segade JM, et al. Occupational allergic respiratory disease due to royal jelly. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2016;117(1):102-3. PubMed
- Li JD, Cui L, Xu YY, Guan K. A case of anaphylaxis caused by major royal jelly protein 3 of royal jelly and its cross-reactivity with honeycomb. J Asthma Allergy 2021;14:1555-7. 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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