Immune Defense Ingredients & Drug Interactions
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Immune Defense 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
Immune Defense is a dietary supplement by Om Mushroom Superfood with 5 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for common cold and immune support, antioxidant support, skin health and collagen formation.Based on those ingredients, 465 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Maitake, Powder, Vitamin C, Himematsutake, Powder. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Immune Defense by Om Mushroom Superfood
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Immune Defense by Om Mushroom Superfood — 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
Ask the Pharmacist
A licensed pharmacist will answer your question by email — free, usually within 24 hours.
Got it — thank you!
A licensed pharmacist will answer within 24 hours. Keep an eye on your email (worth checking spam, just in case).
HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Immune Defense by Om Mushroom Superfood
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Low disclosure
Immune Defense contains 5 active ingredients: vitamin C, reishi powder, turkey tail powder, himematsutake (agaricus mushroom) powder, and maitake powder. Vitamin C is a familiar antioxidant vitamin; the three mushroom powders—reishi, turkey tail, and the blend that includes himematsutake and maitake—are traditional functional mushroom extracts often used to support immune function.
The capsules also contain vegetable cellulose and myceliated oats as inactive ingredients.
Does it work?
Couldn't assess
Vitamin C is effective for preventing vitamin C deficiency and is possibly effective for anemia of chronic disease, atrial fibrillation, cataracts, and exercise-induced respiratory infections, according to clinical research. For the mushroom ingredients, the evidence we hold is insufficient to rate their effectiveness for the conditions studied (allergic rhinitis, osteoporosis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, chemotherapy side effects, and Crohn disease).
That doesn't mean they don't work—it means the clinical data isn't established in our system.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Vitamin C is generally well tolerated at normal dietary and supplement doses, though very high doses can cause stomach upset, heartburn, diarrhea, nausea, headache, and in people prone to kidney stones, stone formation. Rare serious side effects from high-dose intravenous vitamin C include kidney damage.
Himematsutake is generally tolerated as a food, but supplement safety is not well established; rare serious side effects include liver damage and allergic reactions. Maitake is generally tolerated and typically causes only mild gastrointestinal upset like diarrhea or abdominal discomfort in a small number of trial participants.
For pregnancy, vitamin C from food and prenatal vitamins is considered likely safe, but high-dose supplements should be avoided unless your doctor advises otherwise. Himematsutake and maitake lack sufficient safety data in pregnancy and should be avoided in supplement form.
For breastfeeding, recommended amounts of vitamin C are considered safe; high-dose supplements should not be used without guidance. Himematsutake and maitake should be avoided while breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking this product, check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take: blood thinners like warfarin (vitamin C and maitake may change their effect); diabetes medications (himematsutake and maitake may lower blood sugar); birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy (vitamin C may raise estrogen levels); blood-pressure medications (maitake may lower pressure further); or chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals (vitamin C's antioxidant effect may reduce their activity). Also check if you take thyroid medication levothyroxine, the antipsychotic fluphenazine, the HIV drug indinavir, or aluminum-containing products.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with no assessable stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Immune Defense may help support immune function, and vitamin C is well established for preventing vitamin C deficiency. If you take blood thinners, diabetes medications, birth control pills, hormone therapy, or chemotherapy drugs, check your specific medications with your doctor or pharmacist before starting this product—the mushroom and vitamin C content may affect how they work.
Talk it over with your healthcare provider to make sure it's right for you.
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 Aug 23, 2022.
This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed
General information
Key facts about Immune Defense, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Om Mushroom Superfood |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 856210008172 |
| Net contents | 90 Vegetable Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Aug 23, 2022 |
| DSLD ID | 271711 |
| Product type | Botanical With Nutrients |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | Nutrient, All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Vegan, Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Kosher, Gluten 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 Immune Defense by Om Mushroom Superfood, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 90 mg | 100% |
| Reishi, Powder | 0 NP | -- |
| Turkey Tail, Powder | 0 NP | -- |
| Certified Organic Immune Mushroom Powder Blend | 2 Gram(s) | -- |
| Himematsutake, Powder | 0 NP | -- |
| Maitake, Powder | 0 NP | -- |
Other ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose, Oats, Myceliated
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.
Formula
Beta Glucans
Full bodyguard 4 your Immune System. Guard your immune health with the power of 4 functional mushrooms, Reishi, an adaptogen known to help keep the body balanced, plus Turkey Tail, Agaricus blazei, Maitake, and Vitamin C for holistic wellness.
Powered by Reishi + Vitamin C
Mushroom Superfood Daily Boost Capsules
Certified Kosher by Earth Kosher
KETO Keto-Friendly PF Paleo-Friendly
Beta glucans and prebiotics Om grown mushroom blend 2,000 mg per serving See supplement facts
Formulation
We grow our OM. We grow a diverse range of mushroom species at our indoor farm in California and capture the complete nutritional value of the growing cycle. Whole food mushrooms are important because they provide a full spectrum of active compounds to support optimal health. Whole Food Nutrition Tested for Heavy Meals
Non GMO Project Verfied Gluten Free
Vegan
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
Non GMO Project Verified nongmoproject.org
USA Grown Mushrooms
EarthKosher
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested Use: Take three (3) capsules per day with a glass of water.
Precautions
Take as directed.
If you have a medical condition, are on medication or are pregnant or nursing, please seek the direction of a qualified health care professional before using.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place.
General Statements
Facebook Instagram @OmMushrooms OmMushrooms.com
Scan code to learn more 30 day supply
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Immune Defense by Om Mushroom Superfood 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 Immune Defense by Om Mushroom Superfood
These are the 5 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size3 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container30 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.
Vitamin C
Interacts with207 drugs
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient your body needs but cannot make, so you must get it from food or supplements. It's important for im...
Vitamin C monograph & interactionsCertified Organic Immune Mushroom Powder Blend
- › Reishi, Powder
- › Turkey Tail, Powder
- › Himematsutake, Powder
- › Maitake, Powder
Other (inactive) ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose, Oats, Myceliated. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Immune Defense by Om Mushroom Superfood Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Immune Defense by Om Mushroom Superfood interacts with medications through its vitamin C, himematsutake (agaricus mushroom), and maitake content.
The most serious documented interaction is Moderate in severity: vitamin C may increase blood levels of estrogens when taken with birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, potentially raising estrogen levels up to 55% in some cases.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Vitamin C also has Moderate interactions with blood thinners like warfarin (which high-dose vitamin C may weaken), chemotherapy drugs that work by generating free radicals (alkylating agents and antitumor antibiotics), the antipsychotic fluphenazine, the HIV medication indinavir, and thyroid medication levothyroxine. It can also increase aluminum absorption from aluminum-containing compounds.
Himematsutake may lower blood sugar when combined with diabetes medications. Maitake may lower blood pressure with blood-pressure drugs, lower blood sugar with diabetes medications, and may strengthen the blood-thinning effects of warfarin.
We could not check reishi or turkey tail — we hold no interaction data for those ingredients. Altogether, these interactions span 465 individual medications.
Use the medication checker on this page to look up your exact drugs before starting, and talk it over with your doctor or pharmacist if you take any blood thinners, diabetes medications, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or antihypertensive drugs.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Immune Defense?
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 Immune Defense interact with 465 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
3 of the 5 ingredients in Immune Defense interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Maitake, Powder Vitamin C Himematsutake, Powder
AcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
How Acarbose interacts with Immune Defense — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Himematsutake, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking agaricus mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Himematsutake, Powder + Acarbose interactionMaitake, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Acarbose interactionAcebutololRhotral, Sectral
How Acebutolol interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Acebutolol interactionAcetazolamideAk-Zol, Diamox
How Acetazolamide interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Acetazolamide interactionAcetohexamideDymelor
How Acetohexamide interacts with Immune Defense — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Acetohexamide interactionHimematsutake, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking agaricus mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Himematsutake, Powder + Acetohexamide interactionAlbiglutideTanzeum
How Albiglutide interacts with Immune Defense — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Himematsutake, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking agaricus mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Himematsutake, Powder + Albiglutide interactionMaitake, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Albiglutide interactionAlginic Acid, Aluminum HydroxideRafton
How Alginic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Alginic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide interactionAliskirenTekturna
How Aliskiren interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Aliskiren interactionAlogliptinNesina
How Alogliptin interacts with Immune Defense — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Alogliptin interactionHimematsutake, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking agaricus mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Himematsutake, Powder + Alogliptin interactionAlogliptin, MetforminKazano
How Alogliptin, Metformin interacts with Immune Defense — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Himematsutake, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking agaricus mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Himematsutake, Powder + Alogliptin, Metformin interactionMaitake, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Alogliptin, Metformin interactionAlogliptin, PioglitazoneOseni
How Alogliptin, Pioglitazone interacts with Immune Defense — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Alogliptin, Pioglitazone interactionHimematsutake, PowderAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking agaricus mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Himematsutake, Powder + Alogliptin, Pioglitazone interactionAltretamineHexalen
How Altretamine interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAlkylating Agents Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
Read the full Vitamin C + Altretamine interactionAluminum Acetate, Benzethonium ChlorideBuro-Sol Otic Solution
How Aluminum Acetate, Benzethonium Chloride interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Acetate, Benzethonium Chloride interactionAluminum ChlorideAluminum Chloride, Anhydrol Forte, Driclor, Drysol
How Aluminum Chloride interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Chloride interactionAluminum HydroxideAlu-Cap, Amphojel, Gaviscon
How Aluminum Hydroxide interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #2
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAspirin, Aluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase aspirin levels.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAspirin, Aluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase aspirin levels.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug)Maalox, Mucogel
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (otc Drug)Mylanta
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (otc Drug) interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (otc Drug) interactionAluminum, CalciumDomeboro
How Aluminum, Calcium interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum, Calcium interactionAluminum, Magnesium (otc Drug)Almagel
How Aluminum, Magnesium (otc Drug) interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum, Magnesium (otc Drug) interactionAluminum, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug)Wingel
How Aluminum, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interactionAmbrisentanLetairis, Volibris
How Ambrisentan interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Ambrisentan interactionAmilorideAmilamont, Midamor
How Amiloride interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Amiloride interactionAmiloride, HydrochlorothiazideAmil-Co, Amilzide, Moduret 25, Moduretic
How Amiloride, Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Amiloride, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionAmlodipineNorliqva
How Amlodipine interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Amlodipine interactionAmlodipine BenzoateKaterzia
How Amlodipine Benzoate interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Amlodipine Benzoate interactionAmlodipine BesilateIstin
How Amlodipine Besilate interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Amlodipine Besilate interactionAmlodipine BesylateNorvasc
How Amlodipine Besylate interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Amlodipine Besylate interactionAmlodipine Besylate, BenazeprilLotrel
How Amlodipine Besylate, Benazepril interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Amlodipine Besylate, Benazepril interactionAmlodipine, CelecoxibConsensi
How Amlodipine, Celecoxib interacts with Immune Defense — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Maitake, PowderAntihypertensive Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Read the full Maitake, Powder + Amlodipine, Celecoxib interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Immune Defense 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.
Maitake, Powder
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Clinical research shows that taking maitake mushroom polysaccharide (MMP) can lower blood glucose levels in patients with types 2 diabetes.
Antihypertensive Drugs
Theoretically, combining maitake mushroom with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Animal research shows that maitake mushroom can lower blood pressure.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
There is limited evidence that maitake mushroom may increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.
In a case report, a patient previously stabilized on warfarin developed an elevated international normalized ratio (INR) of 5.1 after taking maitake mushroom (Grifron-Pro Maitake D-Fraction) 1 drop/kg daily in three divided doses for one week. The elevated INR resolved after holding warfarin for two days, then reducing the dose by 11%. It is thought that the beta-glucan constituent of maitake mushroom might cause warfarin dissociation from proteins, resulting in increased free warfarin levels and increased warfarin effects.
Vitamin C
Alkylating Agents
Theoretically, antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
The use of antioxidants like vitamin C during chemotherapy is controversial. There is concern that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals, such as cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil, carmustine, busulfan, and thiotepa. In contrast, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that could interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as vitamin C have on chemotherapy.
Aluminum
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Research in animals and humans shows that vitamin C increases aluminum absorption, theoretically by chelating aluminum and keeping it in solution where it is available for absorption. In people with normal renal function, urinary excretion of aluminum will likely increase, making aluminum retention and toxicity unlikely. Patients with renal failure who take aluminum-containing compounds such as phosphate binders should avoid vitamin C supplements in doses above the recommended dietary allowances.
Antitumor Antibiotics
Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
The use of antioxidants like vitamin C during chemotherapy is controversial. There is concern that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs which generate free radicals, such as doxorubicin. In contrast, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that could interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effects, if any, antioxidants such as vitamin C have on chemotherapy.
Estrogens
Vitamin C might increase blood levels of estrogens.
Increases in plasma estrogen levels of up to 55% occur under some circumstances when vitamin C is taken concurrently with oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, including topical products. It is suggested that vitamin C prevents oxidation of estrogen in the tissues, regenerates oxidized estrogen, and reduces sulfate conjugation of estrogen in the gut wall. When tissue levels of vitamin C are high, these processes are already maximized and supplemental vitamin C does not have any effect on estrogen levels. Increases in plasma estrogen levels may occur when patients who are deficient in vitamin C take supplements. Monitor these patients for estrogen-related side effects.
Fluphenazine (Prolixin)
Theoretically, vitamin C might decrease levels of fluphenazine.
In one patient there was a clinically significant decrease in fluphenazine levels when vitamin C (500 mg twice daily) was started. The mechanism is not known, and there is no further data to confirm this interaction.
Indinavir (Crixivan)
Vitamin C can modestly reduce indinavir levels.
One pharmacokinetic study shows that taking vitamin C 1 gram orally once daily along with indinavir 800 mg orally three times daily reduces the area under the concentration-time curve of indinavir by 14%. The mechanism of this interaction is unknown, but it is unlikely to be clinically significant in most patients. The effect of higher doses of vitamin C on indinavir levels is unknown.
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)
Vitamin C can increase levothyroxine absorption.
Two clinical studies in adults with poorly controlled hypothyroidism show that swallowing levothyroxine with a glass of water containing vitamin C 500-1000 mg in solution reduces thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and increases thyroxine (T4) levels when compared with taking levothyroxine alone. This suggests that vitamin C increases the oral absorption of levothyroxine, possibly due to a reduction in pH.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
High-dose vitamin C might reduce the levels and effectiveness of warfarin.
Vitamin C in high doses may cause diarrhea and possibly reduce warfarin absorption. There are reports of two people who took up to 16 grams daily of vitamin C and had a reduction in prothrombin time. Lower doses of 5-10 grams daily can also reduce warfarin absorption. In many cases, this does not seem to be clinically significant. However, a case of warfarin resistance has been reported for a patient who took vitamin C 500 mg twice daily. Cessation of vitamin C supplementation resulted in a rapid increase in international normalized ratio (INR). Tell patients taking warfarin to avoid taking vitamin C in excessively high doses (greater than 10 grams daily). Lower doses may be safe, but the anticoagulation activity of warfarin should be monitored. Patients who are stabilized on warfarin while taking vitamin C should avoid adjusting vitamin C dosage to prevent the possibility of warfarin resistance.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Others)
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers shows that taking high-dose vitamin C (3 grams) 1.5 hours after taking acetaminophen 1 gram slightly increases the apparent half-life of acetaminophen from around 2.3 hours to 3.1 hours. Ascorbic acid competitively inhibits sulfate conjugation of acetaminophen. However, to compensate, elimination of acetaminophen glucuronide and unconjugated acetaminophen increases. This effect is not likely to be clinically significant.
Aspirin
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase aspirin levels.
It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C could increase reabsorption of salicylates by the renal tubules, and increase plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams daily of vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion, suggesting this interaction is not clinically significant.
Choline Magnesium Trisalicylate (Trilisate)
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase choline magnesium trisalicylate levels.
It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C could increase reabsorption of salicylates by the renal tubules, and increase plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams daily of vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion, suggesting this interaction probably is not clinically significant.
Niacin
Vitamin C might decrease the beneficial effects of niacin on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels.
A combination of niacin and simvastatin (Zocor) effectively raises HDL cholesterol levels in patients with coronary disease and low HDL levels. Clinical research shows that taking a combination of antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and selenium) along with niacin and simvastatin (Zocor) attenuates this rise in HDL, specifically the HDL-2 and apolipoprotein A1 fractions, by more than 50% in patients with coronary disease. It is not known whether this adverse effect is due to a single antioxidant such as vitamin C, or to the combination. It also is not known whether it will occur in other patient populations.
Salsalate (Disalcid)
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase salsalate levels.
It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C could increase reabsorption of salicylates by the renal tubules, and increase plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams/day vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion, suggesting this interaction probably is not clinically significant.
Himematsutake, Powder
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, taking agaricus mushroom with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
In one clinical study in patients with type 2 diabetes who are stabilized on conventional oral hypoglycemic agents, 3 of 29 patients taking an agaricus mushroom extract 500 mg three times daily for 12 weeks reported hypoglycemia, compared to one of 29 patients in the placebo group.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Immune Defense, from the product label.
Om Mushroom Superfood
See all Om Mushroom Superfood products- Name
- M2 Ingredients
- City
- Carlsbad
- State
- CA
- ZipCode
- 92008
Immune Defense by Om Mushroom Superfood: Common Questions
Does Immune Defense by Om Mushroom Superfood interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Can I take this while pregnant?
Is this safe while breastfeeding?
What side effects might I experience?
Does this actually help your immune system?
Does this product contain any fillers?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Immune Defense 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 Immune Defense’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Vitamin C
Interacts with 207 drugsVitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient your body needs but cannot make, so you must get it from food or supplements. It's important for immune function, collagen, and acts as an...
Read the full Vitamin C monograph → Herb & supplement monographAgaricus Mushroom
Interacts with 86 drugsAgaricus mushroom (often Agaricus blazei/subrufescens) is a culinary and medicinal mushroom studied mostly for possible immune and antioxidant effects. The human evidence is limited and not...
Read the full Agaricus Mushroom monograph → Herb & supplement monographMaitake Mushroom
Interacts with 260 drugsMaitake is an edible mushroom long used as food and in traditional Japanese medicine, and it is being studied for possible immune, blood sugar, and blood pressure effects. The human evidence...
Read the full Maitake Mushroom monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Immune Defense'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 64 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.
Vitamin C 51 references
- McEvoy GK, ed. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
- Back DJ, Breckenridge AM, MacIver M, et al. Interaction of ethinyloestradiol with ascorbic acid in man. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1981;282:1516.
- Morris JC, Beeley L, Ballantine N. Interaction of ethinyloestradiol with ascorbic acid in man [letter]. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1981;283:503.
- Labriola D, Livingston R. Possible interactions between dietary antioxidants and chemotherapy. Oncology 1999;13:1003-8.
- Dwyer JH, Merz NB, Shirocre AM, et al. Progression of early atherosclerosis and intake of vitamin C and vitamin E from supplements and food. The Los Angeles Atherosclerosis Study. 41st Annual Conference on Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Prevent
- Levine M, Rumsey SC, Daruwala R, et al. Criteria and recommendations for vitamin C intake. JAMA 1999;281:1415-23. PubMed
- Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, WA: Applied Therapeutics Inc., 1997 and updates.
- Segal S, Kaminski S. Drug-nutrient interactions. American Druggist 1996 Jul;42-8.
- Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and Carotenoids. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000. Available at: http://www.nap.edu/books/0309069351/html/.
- Houston JB, Levy G. Drug biotransformation interactions in man VI: Acetaminophen and ascorbic acid. J Pharm Sci 1976;65:1218-21. PubMed
- Brown BG, Zhao XQ, Chait A, et al. Simvastatin and niacin, antioxidant vitamins, or the combination for the prevention of coronary disease. N Engl J Med 2001;345:1583-93. DOI
- Rosenthal G. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1971;215:1671. DOI
- Hume R, Johnstone JM, Weyers E. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1972;219:1479. DOI
- Smith EC, Skalski RJ, Johnson GC, Rossi GV. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1972;221:1166. DOI
- Traxer O, Huet B, Poindexter J, et al. Effect of ascorbic acid consumption on urinary stone risk factors. J Urol 2003;170:397-401.. PubMed
- Domingo JL, Gomez M, Llobet JM, Richart C. Effect of ascorbic acid on gastrointestinal aluminum absorption (letter). Lancet 1991;338:1467.
- Domingo JL, Gomez M, Llobet JM, Corbella J. Influence of some dietary constituents on aluminum absorption and retention in rats. Kidney Int 1991;39:598-601. PubMed
- Partridge NA, Regnier FE, White JL, Hem SL. Influence of dietary constituents on intestinal absorption of aluminum. Kidney Int 1989;35:1413-7. PubMed
- Mc Leod DC, Nahata MC. Inefficacy of ascorbic acid as a urinary acidifier (letter). N Engl J Med 1977;296:1413. DOI
- Hansten PD, Hayton WL. Effect of antacid and ascorbic acid on serum salicylate concentration. J Clin Pharmacol 1980;20:326-31. PubMed
- Dysken MW, Cumming RJ, Channon RA, Davis JM. Drug interaction between ascorbic acid and fluphenazine. JAMA 1979;241:2008. DOI
- Vihtamaki T, Parantainen J, Koivisto AM, et al. Oral ascorbic acid increases plasma oestradiol during postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy. Maturitas 2002;42:129-35. PubMed
- Slain D, Amsden JR, Khakoo RA, et al. Effect of high-dose vitamin C on the steady-state pharmacokinetics of the protease inhibitor indinavir in healthy volunteers. Pharmacotherapy 2005;25:165-70. PubMed
- Cheung MC, Zhao XQ, Chait A, et al. Antioxidant supplements block the response of HDL to simvastatin-niacin therapy in patients with coronary artery disease and low HDL. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2001;21:1320-6. PubMed
- Feetam CL, Leach RH, Meynell MJ. Lack of a clinically important interaction between warfarin and ascorbic acid. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1975;31:544-7. PubMed
- Weintraub M, Griner PF. Warfarin and ascorbic acid: lack of evidence for a drug interaction. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1974;28:53-6. PubMed
- Lee DH, Folsom AR, Harnack L, et al. Does supplemental vitamin C increase cardiovascular disease risk in women with diabetes? Am J Clin Nutr 2004;80:1194-200. PubMed
- Taylor EN, Stampfer MJ, Curhan GC. Dietary factors and the risk of incident kidney stones in men: new insights after 14 years of follow-up. J Am Soc Nephrol 2004;15:3225-32. PubMed
- Ward NC, Hodgson JM, Croft KD, et al. The combination of vitamin C and grape-seed polyphenols increases blood pressure: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Hypertens 2005;23:427-34.. PubMed
- Prasad KN. Rationale for using high-dose multiple dietary antioxidants as an adjunct to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. J Nutr 2004;134:3182S-3S. PubMed
- Conklin KA. Cancer chemotherapy and antioxidants. J Nutr 2004;134:3201S-3204S. PubMed
- Fairweather-Tait S, Hickson K, McGaw B, et al. Orange juice enhances aluminium absorption from antacid preparation. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1994;48(1):71-3.
- Gruenwald, J., Graubaum, H. J., Busch, R., and Bentley, C. Safety and tolerance of ester-C compared with regular ascorbic acid. Adv.Ther. 2006;23(1):171-178.
- Rahimi, R., Nikfar, S., Rezaie, A., and Abdollahi, M. A meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of combined vitamin C and E supplementation in preeclamptic women. Hypertens.Pregnancy. 2009;28(4):417-434. PubMed
- Einerson, B., Nathorn, C., Kitiyakara, C., Sirada, M., and Thamlikitkul, V. The efficacy of ascorbic acid in suboptimal responsive anemic hemodialysis patients receiving erythropoietin: a meta-analysis. J Med.Assoc.Thai. 2011;94 Suppl 1:S134-S146.
- Li, G., Li, L., Yu, C., and Chen, L. Effect of vitamins C and E supplementation on Helicobacter pylori eradication: a meta-analysis. Br.J Nutr 2011;106(11):1632-1637.
- Chen X, Shen L, Gu X, et al. High-dose supplementation with vitamin C--induced pediatric urolithiasis: the first case report in a child and literature review. Urology. 2014;84(4):922-4. PubMed
- Sattar A, Willman JE, Kolluri R. Possible warfarin resistance due to interaction with ascorbic acid: case report and literature review. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2013;70(9):782-6. PubMed
- Yaich S, Chaabouni Y, Charfeddine K, et al. Secondary oxalosis due to excess vitamin C intake: a cause of graft loss in a renal transplant recipient. Saudi J Kidney Dis Transpl. 2014;25(1):113-6. PubMed
- Jalloh MA, Gregory PJ, Hein D, et al. Dietary supplement interactions with antiretrovirals: a systematic review. Int J STD AIDS. 2017 Jan;28(1):4-15. PubMed
- Rumbold A, Ota E, Nagata C, Shahrook S, Crowther CA. Vitamin C supplementation in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015;(9):CD004072. PubMed
- Seo MS, Kim JK, Shim JY. High-dose vitamin C promotes regression of multiple pulmonary metastases originating from hepatocellular carcinoma. Yonsei Med J. 2015;56(5):1449-52. PubMed
- Skelin M, Lucijanic T, Amidzic Klaric D, et al. Factors Affecting Gastrointestinal Absorption of Levothyroxine: A Review. Clin Ther. 2017 Feb;39(2):378-403. PubMed
- Jiang K, Tang K, Liu H, Xu H, Ye Z, Chen Z. Ascorbic acid supplements and kidney stones incidence among men and women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Urol J. 2019;16(2):115-120.
- Thomas S, Patel D, Bittel B, et al. Effect of High-Dose Zinc and Ascorbic Acid Supplementation vs Usual Care on Symptom Length and Reduction Among Ambulatory Patients With SARS-CoV-2 Infection: The COVID A to Z Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2 PubMed
- Giffen MA, McLemore JL. Hyperoxalosis Secondary to Intravenous Vitamin C Administration as a Non-Allopathic Treatment for Cancer. Acad Forensic Pathol 2019;9(1-2):118-126. PubMed
- Maike A, Sturgill D, Gallan A. Oxalate Nephropathy in a Renal Transplant Recipient After Receiving High Dose Ascorbic Acid. Am J Med Sci 2021. PubMed
- Shen ZY, Chen YR, Wang MC, Chang SS. High-dose vitamin C-induced acute oxalate nephropathy in a renal transplant recipient: a case report and literature review. Asian J Surg 2022. PubMed
- Yanase F, Spano S, Maeda A, et al. Mega-dose sodium ascorbate: a pilot, single-dose, physiological effect, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. Crit Care 2023;27(1):371. PubMed
- Sharma Y, Sumanadasa S, Shahi R, et al. Efficacy and safety of vitamin C supplementation in the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia: a systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis. Sci Rep 2024;14(1):11846. PubMed
- Pejcic AV, Petrovic NZ, Djordjic MD, Milosavljevic MN. Vitamin C Levels in Pregnant Women and the Efficacy of Vitamin C Supplements in Preventing Premature Rupture of Membranes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Balkan Med J 2024;41(4):248-260. PubMed
Agaricus Mushroom 5 references
- Hsu CH, Liao YL, Lin SC, et al. The mushroom Agaricus Blazei Murill in combination with metformin and gliclazide improves insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes: a randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Altern Complement Med 2
- Mukai H, Watanabe T, Ando M, Katsumata N. An alternative medicine, Agaricus blazei, may have induced severe hepatic dysfunction in cancer patients. Jpn J Clin Oncol 2006;36:808-10. PubMed
- Ohno S, Sumiyoshi Y, Hashine K, et al. Phase I clinical study of the dietary supplement, Agaricus blazei Murill, in cancer patients in remission. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2011, doi 10.1155/2011/192381.
- Suehiro M, Katoh N, Kishimoto S. Chelitis due to Agaricus blazei Murill mushroom extract. Contact Dermatitis 2007;56(5):293-4.
- Iwai N, Okuda T, Sawada R, et al. Interstitial lung disease associated with Agaricus blazei Murill in a patient with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma receiving gemcitabine-based therapy. Case Rep Gastroenterol 2022;16(1):229-234.
Maitake Mushroom 8 references
- Kabir Y, Kimura S. Dietary mushrooms reduce blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo) 1989;35:91-4. PubMed
- Kabir Y, Yamaguchi M, Kimura S. Effect of shiitake (Lentinus edodes) and maitake (Grifola frondosa) mushrooms on blood pressure and plasma lipids of spontaneously hypertensive rats. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo) 1987;33:341-6. PubMed
- Konno S, Tortorelis DG, Fullerton SA, et al. A possible hypoglycaemic effect of maitake mushroom on Type 2 diabetic patients. Diabet Med 2001;18:1010. PubMed
- Chen JT, Tominaga K, Sato Y, et al. Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) extract induces ovulation in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a possible monotherapy and a combination therapy after failure with first-line clomiphene citrate. J Altern Compl
- Hanselin MR, Vande Griend JP, Linnebur SA. INR elevation with maitake extract in combination with warfarin. Ann Pharmacother 2010;44:223-4. PubMed
- Talpur, N. A., Echard, B. W., Fan, A. Y., Jaffari, O., Bagchi, D., and Preuss, H. G. Antihypertensive and metabolic effects of whole Maitake mushroom powder and its fractions in two rat strains. Mol.Cell Biochem. 2002;237(1-2):129-136. PubMed
- Deng, G., Lin, H., Seidman, A., Fornier, M., D'Andrea, G., Wesa, K., Yeung, S., Cunningham-Rundles, S., Vickers, A. J., and Cassileth, B. A phase I/II trial of a polysaccharide extract from Grifola frondosa (Maitake mushroom) in breast cancer patients: i
- Wesa KM, Cunningham-Rundles S, Klimek VM, et al. Maitake mushroom extract in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS): a phase II study. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2015;64(2):237-47. 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