Life Start 2 Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Natren
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Life Start 2 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
Life Start 2 is a dietary supplement by Natren 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, 386 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Vitamin C, Bifidobacterium longum infantis NLS. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Life Start 2 by Natren
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Partial disclosure
Life Start 2 is a 2-ingredient powder combining vitamin C and a probiotic strain called Bifidobacterium longum infantis. The inactive ingredients are goat milk, brown rice milk concentrate, and organic brown rice syrup solids.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant vitamin that helps with immune function and tissue repair. Bifidobacterium longum infantis is a live beneficial bacteria intended to support digestive and immune health, especially in infants and young children.
Does it work?
Not established
Vitamin C is effective for treating vitamin C deficiency and possibly effective for anemia of chronic disease, atrial fibrillation, cataracts, and reducing respiratory infections after heavy exercise. For Bifidobacterium longum infantis, the evidence we hold does not establish effectiveness for the conditions listed in the data—these include age-related cognitive decline, hay fever, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, anxiety, asthma, and athletic performance.
That doesn't mean it has no benefit; it means reliable evidence for these specific uses isn't established in our data.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Vitamin C is generally well tolerated at normal dietary doses. However, high doses above 2 grams daily can cause abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, and headache.
Kidney stones have been reported in people prone to them. Very high intravenous doses have rarely caused kidney problems and other serious effects.
Bifidobacterium longum infantis is generally well tolerated in healthy people, though it's not recommended for those who are seriously ill or have weakened immune systems. Rare side effects include abdominal discomfort, gas, constipation, and one reported case of dry cough.
There have been very rare reports of this bacteria entering the bloodstream in critically ill infants. For pregnancy, there isn't enough data to know whether this probiotic is safe; talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using it while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking Life Start 2, check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take blood thinners like warfarin, hormonal birth control or hormone replacement therapy, chemotherapy drugs, antipsychotics like fluphenazine, HIV medications like indinavir, antibiotics, or thyroid medication like levothyroxine. Antibiotics are particularly important—they can kill off the beneficial bacteria in this product, so you'd need to time them separately.
No interactions are documented for the Bifidobacterium beyond antibiotics; for vitamin C, the list above covers the main medication types affected.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glancePartially disclosed formula with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Life Start 2 may be worth considering if you're looking for vitamin C and probiotic support, but it's not the right choice if you take blood thinners, hormonal birth control, hormone replacement therapy, antibiotics, or chemotherapy without checking with your doctor first. Don't take high-dose vitamin C supplements—this product is a powder you'll mix, so measure carefully and follow the label.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting it, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a weakened immune system.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 2 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Mar 22, 2024.
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 Life Start 2, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Natren |
|---|---|
| Net contents | 2.5 Ounce(s); 70.9 Gram(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Mar 22, 2024 |
| DSLD ID | 307089 |
| Product type | Other Combinations |
| Supplement form | Powder |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), Children (All), Infants/Baby (0 - 1 Year), 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 Life Start 2 by Natren, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 21 mg | 23% |
| Bifidobacterium longum infantis NLS | 0 NP | -- |
Other ingredients: Goat Milk, Whole, Brown Rice Milk Concentrate, organic whole grain Brown Rice Syrup solids
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
Potency Guarantee: minimum of 2 billion cfu of live, active B. infantis beneficial probiotic bacteria NLS super strain per gram (approx. 1/2 level teaspoon) guaranteed through expiration date, if kept dry and refrigerated.
A gentle probiotic formula designed for a sensitive stomach Pharmaceutical grade quality probiotics Goat milk formula Viable super strain beneficial probiotic bacteria B. infantis NLS, to optimize digestion, support absorption and regularity
Probiotic powder for all ages
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested Use: take one gram (approx. 1/2 level teaspoon) daily mixed with 6 oz. unchilled, filtered (chlorine-free) water for about 2 minutes. For additional support you can increase the amount slowly until you are taking one gram (approx. 1/2 level teaspoon) five times per day or until you achieve desired results. For babies or toddlers you can use a portion of the formula or non-acidic juice to dissolve Life Start 2, then add mixture to remaining liquid and shake bottle to thoroughly mix. Take Life Start 2 preferably before meals and at least 2 hours apart from herbs, garlic and prescription drugs for optimal results. May be taken along with other Natren products.
Precautions
Take Life Start 2 preferably before meals and at least 2 hours apart from herbs, garlic and prescription drugs for optimal results.
Do not accept if seal is broken.
Formulation
The Trenev Process, a unique proprietary process, substantially increases the probiotic benefits by keeping the bacteria in their natural environment (supernatant) to ensure potency and efficacy, eliminating the need for additives.
Researched, formulated and manufactured by Natren Guaranteed 100% Potency through expiration date
Contains no preservatives or artificial colors and flavors. Natren does not use ingredients produced using biotechnology. Gluten free Soy free No GMO's No FOS
Made in USA
General Statements
For more information, please call for a complimentary brochure.
Healthy Friends
Storage
Do not freeze or expose to moisture, heat or direct sunlight. Keep refrigerated and dry to maintain potency guarantee.
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.
Brand IP Statement(s)
Natren The Probiotic Specialist Recognized Worldwide since 1982
Copyright 2021
FDA Statement of Identity
Probiotic Dietary Supplement
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Life Start 2 by Natren 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 Life Start 2 by Natren
These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Gram(s) Dosage formPowder Servings per container70 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 & interactionsBifidobacterium longum infantis NLS
Interacts with182 drugs
Bifidobacterium longum is a 'friendly' bacterium found naturally in the human gut and used as a probiotic. It is generally well tolerated and is most...
Bifidobacterium longum infantis NLS monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Goat Milk, Whole, Brown Rice Milk Concentrate, Organic whole grain Brown Rice Syrup solids. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Life Start 2 by Natren Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Life Start 2 by Natren contains vitamin C and Bifidobacterium longum infantis, both of which interact with medications.
The most serious concern is vitamin C's interaction with blood thinners like warfarin—high doses can reduce how well the drug works by lowering its absorption and blood levels. Vitamin C also interacts with estrogens (hormonal birth control and hormone replacement therapy), potentially raising estrogen levels in your bloodstream by up to 55% in some cases.
It may also affect how your body processes certain chemotherapy drugs, antipsychotics, HIV medications, and thyroid medication.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Vitamin C can increase how much aluminum your body absorbs from aluminum compounds, and theoretically may reduce the effectiveness of cancer drugs that work by generating free radicals. At higher doses it can lower how well levothyroxine (thyroid medication) works when taken together, though taking them at different times may help.
Bifidobacterium longum infantis may be killed off if you take antibiotics at the same time, which would defeat the purpose of the probiotic. Altogether, these interactions span 386 individual medications.
To see whether any of your specific medications are affected, run them through the drug interaction checker on this page.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Life Start 2?
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 Life Start 2 interact with 386 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 2 ingredients in Life Start 2 interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Vitamin C Bifidobacterium longum infantis NLS
Alginic Acid, Aluminum HydroxideRafton
How Alginic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide interacts with Life Start 2 — 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 interactionAltretamineHexalen
How Altretamine interacts with Life Start 2 — 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 Life Start 2 — 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 Life Start 2 — 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 Life Start 2 — 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 Life Start 2 — 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 Life Start 2 — 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 Life Start 2 — 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 Life Start 2 — 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 Life Start 2 — 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 Life Start 2 — 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 Life Start 2 — 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) interactionAmikacinAmikin, Arikayce
How Amikacin interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Amikacin interactionAmoxicillinAmix, Amoram, Amoxident, Amoxil Capsules, Amoxil Injection, Galenamox +3 more
How Amoxicillin interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Amoxicillin interactionAmoxicillin VeterinaryBiomox
How Amoxicillin Veterinary interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Amoxicillin Veterinary interactionAmoxicillin, Clavulanate PotassiumAugmentin, Augmentin '125/31 SF', Augmentin '250/62 SF', Augmentin XR, Augmentin-Duo 400/57, Clavulin
How Amoxicillin, Clavulanate Potassium interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Amoxicillin, Clavulanate Potassium interactionAmoxicillin, Omeprazole Magnesium, RifabutinTalicia
How Amoxicillin, Omeprazole Magnesium, Rifabutin interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Amoxicillin, Omeprazole Magnesium, Rifabutin interactionAmphotericin, TetracyclineMysteclin-F
How Amphotericin, Tetracycline interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Amphotericin, Tetracycline interactionAmpicillinOmnipen, Omnipen-N, Penbritin, Principen, Rimacillin
How Ampicillin interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Ampicillin interactionAmpicillin, SulbactamUnasyn
How Ampicillin, Sulbactam interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Ampicillin, Sulbactam interactionAspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #3
How Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with Life Start 2 — 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 interactionAvibactam Sodium, CeftazidimeAvycaz
How Avibactam Sodium, Ceftazidime interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Avibactam Sodium, Ceftazidime interactionAzithromycinAzasite, Zithromax, Zmax
How Azithromycin interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Azithromycin interactionAztreonamAzactam
How Aztreonam interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Aztreonam interactionBacampicillinPenglobe
How Bacampicillin interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Bacampicillin interactionBacitracinBaci-IM, Baciguent, Bacitracin Ointment
How Bacitracin interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Bacitracin interactionBazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated EstrogensDuavee
How Bazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated Estrogens interacts with Life Start 2 — 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 Life Start 2 — 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 Life Start 2 — 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 interactionBenznidazoleBenznidazole
How Benznidazole interacts with Life Start 2 — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Benznidazole interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Life Start 2 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.
Bifidobacterium longum infantis NLS
Antibiotic Drugs
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B. longum.
Since B. longum preparations usually contain live and active organisms, simultaneously taking antibiotics might kill a significant number of the organisms. Tell patients to separate administration of antibiotics and B. longum preparations by at least 2 hours.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Life Start 2, from the product label.
Natren
See all Natren products- Name
- Natren Inc
- City
- Westlake Village
- State
- CA
- ZipCode
- 91361
- Phone Number
- 800-992-3323
- Web Address
- www.natren.com
Life Start 2 by Natren: Common Questions
Does Life Start 2 by Natren interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Will taking this with my antibiotic stop it from working?
Is this safe to give to my infant?
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Can high doses of vitamin C cause side effects?
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 Life Start 2’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 monographBifidobacterium Longum
Interacts with 182 drugsBifidobacterium longum is a 'friendly' bacterium found naturally in the human gut and used as a probiotic. It is generally well tolerated and is most studied for digestive issues, though evi...
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Life Start 2'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 72 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
Bifidobacterium Longum 21 references
- Ha GY, Yang CH, Kim H, Chong Y. Case of sepsis caused by Bifidobacterium longum. J Clin Microbiol 1999;37:1227-8.
- Pierce A. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines. New York: The Stonesong Press, 1999:19.
- Xiao JZ, Takahashi S, Odamaki T, et al. Antibiotic susceptibility of bifidobacterial strains distributed in the Japanese market. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2010;74(2):336-42. PubMed
- Rautava S, Kainonen E, Salminen S, Isolauri E. Maternal probiotic supplementation during pregnancy and breast-feeding reduces the risk of eczema in the infant. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2012;130(6):1355-60. PubMed
- Pruccoli G, Silvestro E, Pace Napoleone C, Aidala E, Garazzino S, Scolfaro C. Are probiotics safe? Bifidobacterium bacteremia in a child with severe heart failure. Infez Med. 2019;27(2):175-178.
- Pellonperä O, Vahlberg T, Mokkala K, et al. Weight gain and body composition during pregnancy: a randomised pilot trial with probiotics and/or fish oil. Br J Nutr. 2020 Nov 4:1-11. PubMed
- Pellonperä O, Mokkala K, Houttu N, et al. Efficacy of fish oil and/or probiotic intervention on the incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus in an at-risk group of overweight and obese women: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial PubMed
- Shahriari A, Karimi E, Shahriari M, Aslani N, Khooshideh M, Arab A. The effect of probiotic supplementation on the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus among high-risk pregnant women: A parallel double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial PubMed
- Esaiassen E, Hjerde E, Cavanagh JP, Simonsen GS, Klingenberg C; Norwegian Study Group on Invasive Bifidobacterial Infections. Bifidobacterium bacteremia: Clinical characteristics and a genomic approach to assess pathogenicity. J Clin Microbiol. 2017;55(7) PubMed
- Enomoto T, Sowa M, Nishimori K, et al. Effects of bifidobacterial supplementation to pregnant women and infants in the prevention of allergy development in infants and on fecal microbiota. Allergol Int 2014;63(4):575-85. PubMed
- US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Dear Healthcare Provider Letter: Warning Regarding Use of Probiotics in Preterm Infants. September 2023. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/media/172606/download?attachment. Accessed November 1, 2023.
- Pillai A, Tan J, Paquette V, Panczuk J. Does probiotic bacteremia in premature infants impact clinically relevant outcomes? A case report and updated review of literature. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2020;39:255-259. PubMed
- Sabaté JM, Iglicki F. Effect of Bifidobacterium longum 35624 on disease severity and quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. World J Gastroenterol 2022;28(7):732-744.
- Malaguarnera M, Greco F, Barone G, Gargante MP, Malaguarnera M, Toscano MA. Bifidobacterium longum with fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) treatment in minimal hepatic encephalopathy: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Dig Dis Sci 2007;52(11) PubMed
- Zbinden A, Zbinden R, Berger C, Arlettaz R. Case series of Bifidobacterium longum bacteremia in three preterm infants on probiotic therapy. Neonatology 2015;107(1):56-9.
- Tamaki H, Nakase H, Inoue S, et al. Efficacy of probiotic treatment with Bifidobacterium longum 536 for induction of remission in active ulcerative colitis: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled multicenter trial. Dig Endosc 2016;28(1):67-74.
- Bertelli C, Pillonel T, Torregrossa A, et al. Bifidobacterium longum bacteremia in preterm infants receiving probiotics. Clin Infect Dis 2015;60(6):924-7. PubMed
- Esaiassen E, Cavanagh P, Hjerde E, Simonsen GS, Støen R, Klingenberg C. Bifidobacterium longum subspecies infantis bacteremia in 3 extremely preterm infants receiving probiotics. Emerg Infect Dis 2016;22(9):1664-6.
- Tena D, Losa C, Medina MJ, Sáez-Nieto JA. Peritonitis caused by Bifidobacterium longum: case report and literature review. Anaerobe 2014;27:27-30. PubMed
- Sangkanjanavanich S, Pradubpongsa P, Mitthamsiri W, Sangasapaviliya A, Boonpiyathad T. Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 efficacy in patients with uncontrolled asthma: A randomized placebo-controlled trial. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2022;129(6):790-792. PubMed
- Wilson HL, Ong CW. Bifidobacterium longum vertebrodiscitis in a patient with cirrhosis and prostate cancer. Anaerobe 2017;47:47-50. PubMed
See these in context on the Bifidobacterium Longum monograph →
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