L-Carnosine 500 mg Ingredients & Drug Interactions
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking L-Carnosine 500 mg 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
L-Carnosine 500 mg is a dietary supplement by Natural Factors with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for common cold and immune support, antioxidant support, skin health and collagen formation.Based on those ingredients, 293 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Vitamin C, L-Carnosine. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against L-Carnosine 500 mg by Natural Factors
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of L-Carnosine 500 mg by Natural Factors
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
This product contains 2 active ingredients: vitamin C and L-carnosine. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant in your body.
L-Carnosine is a naturally occurring compound made from two amino acids; it's being studied for potential effects on aging, muscle function, and brain health, though the evidence remains limited. The capsule also contains microcrystalline cellulose (a plant-based binder), a vegetarian capsule shell, and magnesium stearate (a flow agent) as inactive ingredients.
Does it work?
Not established
For vitamin C, the evidence is clearest for preventing vitamin C deficiency itself — that's established as effective. It's possibly effective for several other uses: helping with anemia in people with chronic disease, reducing atrial fibrillation risk, supporting eye health against cataracts, and lowering the risk of respiratory infections triggered by intense exercise.
For L-carnosine, the evidence isn't strong enough to rate. Research hasn't shown it to be effective for autism spectrum disorder, and there's insufficient reliable evidence for age-related cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, athletic performance, cataracts, or general cognitive impairment.
The data we hold doesn't establish that this ingredient works for these conditions.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Vitamin C is generally well tolerated at normal dietary and supplement doses. At high doses — above 2 grams daily — side effects are more likely: abdominal cramps, heartburn, nausea, osmotic diarrhea, and headache.
People prone to kidney stones should be aware that high-dose vitamin C increases that risk. Serious effects from very high doses (usually intravenous) are rare but include kidney damage and false lab results.
L-Carnosine is generally well tolerated in short-term studies, though long-term safety data are limited. Reported side effects include decreased appetite, dry mouth, small weight changes, foot and joint pain, and rarely pneumonia.
Safety information for pregnancy is not adequate — the data advises against use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. For vitamin C specifically, normal amounts from food and prenatal vitamins are fine, but avoid high-dose supplements in pregnancy unless your doctor advises it.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking this product, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take warfarin or other blood thinners, estrogens (including birth control or hormone therapy), chemotherapy drugs, diabetes medications, antipsychotics like fluphenazine, thyroid medication (levothyroxine), or HIV antivirals like indinavir. All of these have moderate-severity interactions documented with the vitamin C in this formula.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
This product makes sense if you're looking to supplement vitamin C intake or are curious about L-carnosine's potential for aging and cognition — though the evidence for L-carnosine is still thin. If you take warfarin, estrogens, chemotherapy, antidiabetes drugs, antipsychotics, thyroid medication, or HIV antivirals, you'll need to check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, because the interactions documented here could affect how those drugs work.
Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk it over with your own healthcare provider first.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 2 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated May 22, 2020.
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 L-Carnosine 500 mg, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Natural Factors |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 068958028132 |
| Net contents | 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | May 22, 2020 |
| DSLD ID | 220440 |
| Product type | Other Combinations |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Vegan, Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Sugar 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 L-Carnosine 500 mg by Natural Factors, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 25 mg | 28% |
| L-Carnosine | 500 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Vegetarian Capsule, Magnesium Stearate
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.
Seals/Symbols
isura Non-GMO - Mass Spec Documentation Lab tested
Purity & Potency Guaranteed
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested Usage: 1 capsule per day or as directed by a health professional.
Precautions
Cautions: As with any supplement, consult your health professional before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive, or if you are taking medication, have a medical condition, or anticipate a surgery.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Sealed for your protection. Do not use if seal is broken.
Formula
L-Carnosine supports the proper functioning of the brain, heart, skin, muscles, kidneys, and stomach.
Formulation
It is an antioxidant for the maintenance of good health which supports healthy aging and cellular rejuvenation. Natural Factors amino acids are the highest quality pharmaceutical grade products available. Manufactured by Natural Factors to ensure safety and potency in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) of the FDA and Health Canada.
Contains no artificial colors, preservatives, or sweeteners; no dairy, sugar, wheat, gluten, yeast, soy, egg, fish, shellfish, animal products, salt, tree nuts, or GMOs.
Suitable for vegetarians/vegans.
Cellular Rejuvenation
Storage
For freshness, store in a cool, dry place.
FDA Disclaimer Statement
This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
General Statements
Product of Canada Recyclable container and label.
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
L-Carnosine 500 mg by Natural Factors 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 L-Carnosine 500 mg by Natural Factors
These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Vegetarian 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.
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 & interactionsL-Carnosine
Interacts with86 drugs
Carnosine is a naturally occurring dipeptide (made of beta-alanine and histidine) that acts as an antioxidant and buffer in muscle and brain. It is so...
L-Carnosine monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Vegetarian Capsule, Magnesium Stearate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
L-Carnosine 500 mg by Natural Factors Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
L-Carnosine 500 mg by Natural Factors contains vitamin C and L-carnosine, both of which have documented interactions with medications.
Vitamin C carries the most serious concern: it can reduce the effectiveness of warfarin (Coumadin), a blood thinner, by decreasing how much of the drug your body absorbs — especially at higher doses. This is a moderate-severity interaction.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Vitamin C also interacts moderately with estrogens (oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy), potentially raising estrogen blood levels by up to 55% in some cases. It can similarly affect chemotherapy drugs (alkylating agents and antitumor antibiotics) by reducing their effectiveness through its antioxidant activity.
Additionally, vitamin C interacts with the antipsychotic fluphenazine, the HIV drug indinavir, the thyroid medication levothyroxine, and aluminum-containing compounds — all moderate severity — and can increase aluminum absorption in your body.
L-Carnosine carries a moderate interaction with antidiabetes drugs: preliminary research suggests it might lower fasting blood glucose, which could raise the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) if combined with diabetes medications. Altogether, these interactions span 293 individual medications.
To see whether any of your specific prescriptions are affected, use the medication checker on this page. If you take any of the drug types mentioned — especially warfarin, estrogens, chemotherapy, or diabetes medications — check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against L-Carnosine 500 mg?
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 L-Carnosine 500 mg interact with 293 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 2 ingredients in L-Carnosine 500 mg interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Vitamin C L-Carnosine
AcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
How Acarbose interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-carnosineAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking carnosine with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full L-carnosine + Acarbose interactionAcetohexamideDymelor
How Acetohexamide interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-carnosineAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking carnosine with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full L-carnosine + Acetohexamide interactionAlbiglutideTanzeum
How Albiglutide interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-carnosineAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking carnosine with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full L-carnosine + Albiglutide interactionAlginic Acid, Aluminum HydroxideRafton
How Alginic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 interactionAlogliptinNesina
How Alogliptin interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-carnosineAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking carnosine with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full L-carnosine + Alogliptin interactionAlogliptin, MetforminKazano
How Alogliptin, Metformin interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-carnosineAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking carnosine with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full L-carnosine + Alogliptin, Metformin interactionAlogliptin, PioglitazoneOseni
How Alogliptin, Pioglitazone interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-carnosineAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking carnosine with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full L-carnosine + Alogliptin, Pioglitazone interactionAltretamineHexalen
How Altretamine interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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) interactionAntidiabetes, Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (dpp-iv) InhibitorGlyxambi
How Antidiabetes, Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (dpp-iv) Inhibitor interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-carnosineAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking carnosine with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full L-carnosine + Antidiabetes, Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (dpp-iv) Inhibitor interactionAspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #3
How Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 + Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionBazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated EstrogensDuavee
How Bazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated Estrogens interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C might increase blood levels of estrogens.
Read the full Vitamin C + Bazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated Estrogens interactionBendamustineBelrapzo, Treanda, Vivimusta
How Bendamustine interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 + Bendamustine interactionBendamustine HydrochlorideBendeka
How Bendamustine Hydrochloride interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 + Bendamustine Hydrochloride interactionBleomycinBlenoxane
How Bleomycin interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAntitumor Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
Read the full Vitamin C + Bleomycin interactionBusulfanBusulfex, Myleran
How Busulfan interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 + Busulfan interactionCanagliflozinInvokana
How Canagliflozin interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-carnosineAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking carnosine with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full L-carnosine + Canagliflozin interactionCanagliflozin, MetforminInvokamet
How Canagliflozin, Metformin interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-carnosineAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking carnosine with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full L-carnosine + Canagliflozin, Metformin interactionCanagliflozin, Metformin HydrochlorideInvokamet XR
How Canagliflozin, Metformin Hydrochloride interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
L-carnosineAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking carnosine with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full L-carnosine + Canagliflozin, Metformin Hydrochloride interactionCarboplatinParaplatin
How Carboplatin interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 + Carboplatin interactionCarmustineBiCNU, Gliadel, Gliadel Wafer
How Carmustine interacts with L-Carnosine 500 mg — 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 + Carmustine interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in L-Carnosine 500 mg 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.
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.
L-Carnosine
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, taking carnosine with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Some, but not all, preliminary clinical research shows that carnosine might reduce fasting blood glucose levels.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for L-Carnosine 500 mg, from the product label.
L-Carnosine 500 mg by Natural Factors: Common Questions
Does L-Carnosine 500 mg by Natural Factors interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Can I take this if I'm on birth control or hormone replacement therapy?
Is L-carnosine proven to help with memory or aging?
What side effects might I experience?
Is it safe in pregnancy?
Can I take this with my diabetes medication?
Why does a carnosine product contain vitamin C?
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 L-Carnosine 500 mg’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 monographCarnosine
Interacts with 86 drugsCarnosine is a naturally occurring dipeptide (made of beta-alanine and histidine) that acts as an antioxidant and buffer in muscle and brain. It is sold as an anti-aging and performance supp...
Read the full Carnosine monograph →Sources & How We Checked
L-Carnosine 500 mg'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 56 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
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- 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
Carnosine 5 references
- Chengappa KN, Turkin SR, DeSanti S, et al. A preliminary, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of L-carnosine to improve cognition in schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2012;142(1-3):145-52. PubMed
- Karkabounas S, Papadopoulos N, Anastasiadou C, et al. Effects of a-lipoic Acid, carnosine, and thiamine supplementation in obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double-blind study. J Med Food. 2018;21(12):1197-1203.
- Peng W, Mao P, Liu L, et al. Effect of carnosine supplementation on lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, HbA1C and insulin resistance: a systematic review and meta-analysis of long-term randomized controlled trials. Complement Ther Med 2020;48:102241. PubMed
- Siriwattanasit N, Satirapoj B, Supasyndh O. Effect of oral carnosine supplementation on urinary TGF-ß in diabetic nephropathy: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Nephrol 2021;22(1):236. PubMed
- Sureshkumar K, Durairaj M, Srinivasan K, et al. Effect of L-Carnosine in Patients with Age-Related Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Biosci (Landmark Ed) 2023;28(1):18. 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.
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