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
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Ginseng Complex by The Vitamin Shoppe — 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 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 five active ingredients. Three are ginseng varieties — Red Chinese Ginseng, American Ginseng, and Korean Ginseng — which are roots used in traditional medicine.
The product also includes Eleuthero extract (also called Siberian ginseng, though it's not a true ginseng) and Royal Jelly extract, a nutrient-rich substance made by honeybees. The capsules themselves are made of gelatin and contain magnesium stearate and silicon dioxide as inactive ingredients to hold everything together and keep the powder flowing.
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
Evidence is mixed and limited. American ginseng is possibly effective for upper respiratory tract infections (colds and similar illnesses), but we don't have reliable data to rate its use for anemia of chronic disease or breast cancer.
Eleuthero extract is possibly effective for genital herpes, though we don't have enough evidence to rate it for familial Mediterranean fever, bipolar disorder, osteoporosis, or chronic fatigue syndrome. Royal jelly is possibly effective for menopausal symptoms, but the evidence suggests it's likely ineffective for hay fever, physical performance, or diabetes — and we don't have enough data on androgenic alopecia (hair loss).
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Short-term use of American ginseng and eleuthero is generally well tolerated in healthy adults, though long-term safety hasn't been well studied for either. Eleuthero can cause diarrhea, nausea, headache, and nervousness — nervousness was reported in about 7 in 100 people in one study, and higher doses may increase the risk of anxiety or irritability.
It's also been reported to raise blood pressure, which is a concern if you already have high blood pressure or heart problems. Royal jelly is generally well tolerated, but it can trigger serious allergic reactions in people with a history of asthma or allergies — reactions range from itching and hives to shortness of breath, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis or death.
One case report notes it caused hemorrhagic colitis (bleeding in the colon with bloody diarrhea). American ginseng may cause headache.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: American ginseng is possibly unsafe during pregnancy due to lab research concerns, and too little is known about safety while breastfeeding — both should be avoided. Eleuthero and royal jelly also lack enough safety data during pregnancy and breastfeeding and are best avoided.
We don't have pregnancy or breastfeeding safety information on file for Korean Ginseng or Red Chinese Ginseng.
Meds to double-check
Major interaction found
Before taking this product, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take any of these: blood thinners like warfarin (American ginseng and royal jelly can interfere with them); blood pressure medications (royal jelly may lower blood pressure further); antidiabetes drugs (American ginseng and eleuthero may lower blood sugar further); immunosuppressants (American ginseng and eleuthero may interfere); heart medications including digoxin (eleuthero may raise levels); MAOIs or other older antidepressants (American ginseng may cause problems); or drugs your liver breaks down through CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2D6 pathways, or P-glycoprotein (eleuthero may raise levels). We could not check Red Chinese Ginseng or Korean Ginseng for interactions.
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.
Ginseng Complex may be worth considering if you're looking for support during a cold or upper respiratory infection (American ginseng) or menopausal symptoms (royal jelly), though the evidence is modest. You'll want to be especially careful if you take any blood thinners, diabetes medications, blood pressure medications, immunosuppressants, or heart medications — this product has documented interactions with all of those categories.
If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have asthma or a history of allergies, talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting it. Check your exact medications with your doctor or pharmacist before you begin.
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) | 766536020775 |
| Net contents | 300 Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Jun 24, 2016 |
| DSLD ID | 60248 |
| 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-2077 1072446 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 five ingredients, three of which we could check for interactions.
Through its American ginseng, eleuthero extract, and royal jelly content, this product has documented interactions with a range of medications. The most serious is a Major interaction: American ginseng can decrease the effectiveness of warfarin (a blood thinner), potentially lowering your INR — a measure of how well the medication is working.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
American ginseng also carries Moderate interactions with immunosuppressants (which it may interfere with), antidiabetes drugs (it might lower blood sugar further, raising the risk of low blood sugar), and MAOIs (a class of older antidepressants — one case report notes insomnia, headache, and tremors with ginseng and phenelzine). Eleuthero extract has Moderate interactions with several drug categories: CYP1A2 and CYP2C9 substrates (a group of drugs your liver breaks down a certain way), P-glycoprotein substrates, anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs (blood thinners and aspirin-like drugs — it may increase bleeding risk), immunosuppressants, antidiabetes drugs, and digoxin (a heart medication — one case report documented elevated digoxin levels).
Eleuthero also carries a Minor interaction with CYP2D6 substrates, though human studies suggest it may not be clinically important.
Royal jelly extract has Moderate interactions with antihypertensive drugs (blood pressure medications — it may lower blood pressure further) and warfarin (one case report showed an elderly patient's INR spike to 7.29 after one week of use). Altogether, these interactions span 1,261 individual medications.
We could not check Red Chinese Ginseng or Korean Ginseng — we hold no data for them. Use the search tool on this page to look up your exact medications before starting this product.
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
Acetaminophen, OrphenadrineOrfenagesic
How Acetaminophen, Orphenadrine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetaminophen, Orphenadrine interactionAcetaminophen, OxycodonePercocet, Roxicet, Tylox, Xartemis XR
How Acetaminophen, Oxycodone interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetaminophen, Oxycodone interactionAcetaminophen, Pamabrom, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength PMS, Pamprin, Pamprin ES
How Acetaminophen, Pamabrom, Pyrilamine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetaminophen, Pamabrom, Pyrilamine interactionAcetaminophen, PentazocineTalacen
How Acetaminophen, Pentazocine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetaminophen, Pentazocine interactionAcetaminophen, Phenylephrine, ChlorpheniramineSuper Cold Tabs
How Acetaminophen, Phenylephrine, Chlorpheniramine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetaminophen, Phenylephrine, Chlorpheniramine interactionAcetaminophen, PhenylpropanolamineTetra Caps
How Acetaminophen, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetaminophen, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, Phenylpropanolamine, PhenyltoloxamineSinubid
How Acetaminophen, Phenylpropanolamine, Phenyltoloxamine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetaminophen, Phenylpropanolamine, Phenyltoloxamine interactionAcetaminophen, PhenyltoloxaminePercogesic, Relagesic
How Acetaminophen, Phenyltoloxamine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetaminophen, Phenyltoloxamine interactionAcetaminophen, Phenyltoloxamine, SalicylamideLobac
How Acetaminophen, Phenyltoloxamine, Salicylamide interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetaminophen, Phenyltoloxamine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, PropoxypheneDarvocet-N 100, Darvocet-N 50, E-Lor, Wygesic
How Acetaminophen, Propoxyphene interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetaminophen, Propoxyphene interactionAcetaminophen, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Sinus, Dristan N.D., Non-Aspirin Sinus, Ornex, Ornex-Max, Sinutab +5 more
How Acetaminophen, Pseudoephedrine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetaminophen, Pseudoephedrine interactionAcetaminophen, Pseudoephedrine, TriprolidineActifed Plus ES
How Acetaminophen, Pseudoephedrine, Triprolidine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetaminophen, Pseudoephedrine, Triprolidine interactionAcetazolamideAk-Zol, Diamox
How Acetazolamide interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Royal Jelly ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, royal jelly might increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Royal Jelly Extract + Acetazolamide interactionAcetohexamideDymelor
How Acetohexamide interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
American GinsengAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking American ginseng with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full American Ginseng + Acetohexamide interactionEleuthero ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetohexamide interactionAcetylsalicylic AcidEntrophen
How Acetylsalicylic Acid interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Acetylsalicylic Acid interactionAdalimumabHumira
How Adalimumab interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
American GinsengImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, American ginseng use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full American Ginseng + Adalimumab interactionEleuthero ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might interfere with immunosuppressive drugs because of its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Adalimumab interactionAdalimumab-adazHyrimoz
How Adalimumab-adaz interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might interfere with immunosuppressive drugs because of its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Adalimumab-adaz interactionAmerican GinsengImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, American ginseng use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full American Ginseng + Adalimumab-adaz interactionAdalimumab-adbmCyltezo
How Adalimumab-adbm interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
American GinsengImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, American ginseng use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full American Ginseng + Adalimumab-adbm interactionEleuthero ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might interfere with immunosuppressive drugs because of its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Adalimumab-adbm interactionAdalimumab-afzbAbrilada
How Adalimumab-afzb interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might interfere with immunosuppressive drugs because of its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Adalimumab-afzb interactionAmerican GinsengImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, American ginseng use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full American Ginseng + Adalimumab-afzb interactionAdalimumab-attoAmjevita
How Adalimumab-atto interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
American GinsengImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, American ginseng use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full American Ginseng + Adalimumab-atto interactionEleuthero ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might interfere with immunosuppressive drugs because of its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Adalimumab-atto interactionAdalimumab-bwwdHadlima
How Adalimumab-bwwd interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might interfere with immunosuppressive drugs because of its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Adalimumab-bwwd interactionAmerican GinsengImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, American ginseng use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full American Ginseng + Adalimumab-bwwd interactionAdalimumab-fkjpHulio
How Adalimumab-fkjp interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
American GinsengImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, American ginseng use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full American Ginseng + Adalimumab-fkjp interactionEleuthero ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might interfere with immunosuppressive drugs because of its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Adalimumab-fkjp interactionAerosphere Budesonide, Formoterol Fumarate, GlycopyrrolateBreztri
How Aerosphere Budesonide, Formoterol Fumarate, Glycopyrrolate interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Aerosphere Budesonide, Formoterol Fumarate, Glycopyrrolate interactionAfatinib DimaleateGilotrif
How Afatinib Dimaleate interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractP-glycoprotein Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Afatinib Dimaleate interactionAgomelatineValdoxan
How Agomelatine interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Agomelatine interactionAlbiglutideTanzeum
How Albiglutide interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Albiglutide interactionAmerican GinsengAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking American ginseng with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full American Ginseng + Albiglutide interactionAlefaceptAmevive
How Alefacept interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might interfere with immunosuppressive drugs because of its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Alefacept interactionAmerican GinsengImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, American ginseng use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full American Ginseng + Alefacept interactionAlemtuzumabCampath
How Alemtuzumab interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
American GinsengImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, American ginseng use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full American Ginseng + Alemtuzumab interactionEleuthero ExtractImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might interfere with immunosuppressive drugs because of its immunostimulant activity.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Alemtuzumab interactionAliskirenTekturna
How Aliskiren interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Royal Jelly ExtractAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, royal jelly might increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Read the full Royal Jelly Extract + Aliskiren interactionEleuthero ExtractCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Aliskiren interactionAlogliptinNesina
How Alogliptin interacts with Ginseng Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Eleuthero ExtractAntidiabetes Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, eleuthero might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Eleuthero Extract + Alogliptin interactionAmerican GinsengAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking American ginseng with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full American Ginseng + Alogliptin 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
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Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind 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
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